Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight

If you’re a fan of Asian-inspired fast food, you’ve likely tried—or at least heard of—Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken. This crispy, flavorful dish has gained a loyal following thanks to its unique blend of sweetness and savoriness. But what makes it so special?

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken is a fan-favorite dish known for its crispy chicken breast pieces tossed in a sweet, tangy honey sesame sauce. This limited-time menu item has garnered a loyal following due to its unique flavor profile, making it a top contender among Panda Express lovers. But how does it compare to the ever-popular Orange Chicken?

Whether you’re a fan of its savory super greens, curious about its nutrition, or looking to recreate it at home, this guide has everything you need to know about Panda Honey Sesame Chicken. From its price and calories to its ingredients, we’ve got you covered.

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

What Does Honey Sesame Chicken Taste Like?

You can download complete Panda Express Menu PDF to keep it with you.

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast Nutrition

For health-conscious food lovers, understanding the nutritional profile of Panda Express Chicken sesame with honey is key to making informed choices. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’re getting in every serving:

Nutritional Information

Protein and Satiety

This dish provides a moderate protein boost, making it a good option for those looking to stay full for longer. The higher protein content also makes it a more filling and satisfying option, especially for those aiming to maintain muscle mass while watching their calorie intake.

Fat and Flavor

The fat content comes mainly from the frying process and sesame oil, which adds flavor and a crunchy texture. While fat is essential for a balanced diet, those looking to cut down on excess oil may prefer grilled or stir-fried alternatives.

Sodium Considerations

The sodium level is relatively high, so individuals who are monitoring their salt intake should consider balancing their meal with steamed vegetables or brown rice instead of fried rice or chow mein. Choosing a lower-sodium soy sauce alternative can also help reduce overall salt consumption.

Comparing with Orange Chicken

Compared to Orange Chicken, Honey Sesame Chicken has fewer calories and sugar, making it a relatively lighter option. The lower sugar content means it won’t spike blood sugar levels as much, making it a better choice for those looking to manage their carbohydrate intake.

Healthier Pairing Options

If you’re looking to make this dish even healthier, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or brown rice instead of fried rice or chow mein. This can help reduce calorie intake while increasing fiber, making it a more balanced meal overall.

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Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken Allergens

Before indulging, be aware of possible allergens in this dish:

If you have dietary restrictions, always check with your local Panda Express location for detailed allergen information. Or you can also download allergen menu

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Ingredients

This dish is crafted using high-quality ingredients to ensure a delicious experience. Here’s what goes into it:

• Chicken Breast – Lightly battered and fried to a crispy texture.
• Honey Sesame Sauce – A blend of honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar for a tangy kick.
• Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and enhances the visual appeal.
• Bell Peppers & String Beans – Provide crunch and balance the sweetness.
• Garlic & Ginger – Infuse a bold, aromatic essence.

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken vs. Orange Chicken: Which Is Better?

Both dishes are fan favorites, but they cater to different taste preferences:

• Honey Sesame Chicken Breast is lighter and has a balanced sweet-savory flavor with a mild crunch from sesame seeds and veggies.
• Orange Chicken is tangier, crispier, and has a more pronounced sweetness, making it a bolder choice.

One of the biggest debates among Panda Express fans is whether Honey Sesame Chicken is better than the famous Orange Chicken. Here’s how they compare:

Feature	Honey Sesame Chicken Breast	Orange Chicken
Flavor	Sweet, nutty, mild spice	Tangy, sweet, slightly spicy
Texture	Crispy, crunchy vegetables	Crispy, sticky glaze
Popularity	Limited-time favorite	Signature dish
Calories	Lower calorie option	Higher in sugar and calories

Which one is better? If you prefer a tangy, bold flavor, Orange Chicken is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a balanced sweetness with a crunchy twist, Honey Sesame Chicken is a must-try!

f you prefer a dish with slightly fewer calories and sugar while still enjoying a crispy, flavorful bite, Honey Sesame Chicken Breast is the better option. However, if you crave a stronger citrus kick with a crunchier texture, Orange Chicken might be the way to go.

Chinese Panda Baked Honey Sesame Chicken Allergens

Before indulging, be aware of possible allergens in this dish:

• Gluten: Present due to soy sauce and batter.
• Soy: Used in the sauce.
• Sesame: A key ingredient in the dish.
• Egg: May be present in the batter.

Honey Sesame Chicken Marinade: Can You Make It at Home?

If you love this dish, why not try making a version at home? Here’s a complete recipe to recreate best Panda Honey Sesame Chicken:

Ingredients:

• For the Marinade:
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
• For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup cornstarch (for coating)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the Garnish:
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • ½ cup sliced bell peppers
  • ½ cup string beans

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add 1 tbsp cornstarch and mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the marinade, coat well, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and flour. Dip each marinated chicken piece into the beaten egg, then coat with the flour mixture.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Cook the Vegetables: In a separate pan, sauté sliced bell peppers and string beans in a little sesame oil for about 2 minutes.
6. Toss with Sauce: Reheat the marinade sauce in a pan until it thickens. Add the fried chicken and cooked vegetables, tossing to coat everything evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

This homemade version is not only delicious but allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier alternative!

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Review

Many fans praise this dish for its crispy texture, balanced sweetness, and fresh vegetable mix. It’s often described as a lighter, more refined alternative to Orange Chicken. However, some customers feel that the sweetness could be toned down slightly.

Overall, Chinese Express Honey Sesame Chicken gets a 4.5/5 rating for its flavor, texture, and unique appeal.

Why Did Panda Express Stop Selling Honey Sesame Chicken?

Panda Express often rotates its menu, and Honey Sesame Chicken is typically a limited-time offering. However, due to its popularity, it has made several comebacks. If it’s not currently available at your location, keep an eye out for seasonal re-releases!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes Just Like Panda Express: This copycat recipe captures the authentic flavors of Panda Express Chow Mein.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to be vegan or add your favorite proteins and veggies.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Now you can enjoy the deliciousness of Panda Express Chow Mein anytime, right from your own kitchen!

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Why Did Panda Express Stop Selling Honey Sesame Chicken?

Panda Express often rotates its menu, and Honey Sesame Chicken is typically a limited-time offering. However, due to its popularity, it has made several comebacks. If it’s not currently available at your location, keep an eye out for seasonal re-releases!

“I started making Honey Sesame Chicken at home, and it’s even better than Panda Express. Plus, I can control the oil and sauces.”

Enjoy

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken is a delicious, crispy, and sweet-savory dish that keeps fans coming back whenever it’s on the menu. Whether you’re debating between Honey Sesame Chicken and Orange Chicken or just curious about its ingredients and nutrition, this dish remains a standout option at Panda Express.