Panda Express’ New Popcorn Chicken Comes With A Taiwanese American Twist
Panda Express is bringing the energy of Taiwan’s legendary night markets to select markets with its new Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken.
The American Chinese fast food chain’s take on the iconic Taiwanese street food staple, yán sū jī (鹽酥雞), features dark meat chicken coated in a light, extra-crispy breading. Panda tosses the chicken in a proprietary dry spice blend featuring tamarind, tomato, garlic and onion, then finishes it with crispy fried kale—its twist on the traditional basil garnish. Each order also comes with house-made Chili Crisp Aioli for a creamy, subtly spicy dip.
“Popcorn chicken is a familiar favorite for many Americans, so pairing it with Taiwanese-inspired flavors and street food culture felt like the most natural way to tell our American Chinese story,” said Evelyn Wah, Vice President of Brand Innovation at Panda Express. “Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken gives guests a new way to enjoy Panda Express, bringing our bold flavors into a portable, shareable format that’s perfect for enjoying on the go.”
Inspired by the bold flavors and snacking culture of Taiwan’s night markets, Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken marks Panda Express’ first walk-and-eat snacking format. Guests can also order it as a standard entrée selection with any Plate, Bowl or Family Meal.
For the launch, Panda Express partnered with Taiwanese American designer, author and food creator Frankie Gaw of Little Fat Boy, whose work explores the intersection of Asian and American influences through food, culture and storytelling.
Gaw designed a limited-edition collector bucket that pulls from the nostalgia of Taiwanese night markets, classic American movie theaters and Panda Express’ American Chinese identity.
“This partnership is a true full-circle moment for me as an Asian American kid who grew up eating Panda Express,” said Gaw. “The pail design pulls from my Taiwanese roots, childhood movie theater nostalgia, and Panda’s signature playfulness. It’s a special, out-of-the-(takeout)-box drop—grab it while supplies last!”
Panda Express’ Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is available now as an exclusive regional test at participating locations in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Nashville, Orlando, Phoenix and Reno, along with select surrounding markets.
Beginning September 9, guests in participating test markets can also receive Gaw’s collectible bucket with the purchase of a large à la carte pail order, while supplies last.
