Will Panda Express Bring Back Beyond Orange Chicken?

The burning question on the minds (and taste buds) of plant-based food enthusiasts everywhere: will Panda Express bring back Beyond Orange Chicken? The short, slightly frustrating, but ultimately hopeful answer is: possibly, but not imminently. While a permanent return to the national menu isn’t currently on the horizon, the success of its initial launch leaves the door wide open for potential future limited-time offers (LTOs) and test runs. Consider it less of a “no” and more of a “not right now.”

The Rise and (Temporary) Fall of Plant-Based Orange Chicken

A Phenomenal Launch

In the summer of 2022, Panda Express sent shockwaves through the fast-food landscape by partnering with Beyond Meat to introduce Beyond Orange Chicken. This innovative plant-based alternative to their iconic Orange Chicken was initially tested in select markets before launching nationwide. The response was overwhelming. Lines snaked around buildings, social media exploded with reviews (mostly positive), and Panda Express locations struggled to keep up with demand. The initial success was undeniable. Beyond Orange Chicken proved that there was a significant and growing appetite for plant-based options, even at a traditionally meat-centric fast-food chain.

Why Was It Discontinued?

So, if it was so successful, why did Panda Express discontinue Beyond Orange Chicken on a national level? Several factors likely contributed to the decision.

• Supply Chain Challenges: The sheer demand for Beyond Orange Chicken likely strained supply chains, making consistent availability across all locations difficult. Maintaining quality while scaling up production is a common hurdle for new product launches, especially in the current global environment.
• Operational Complexity: Introducing a new ingredient, cooking process, and training protocols for staff adds complexity to restaurant operations. Ensuring consistent preparation and quality control across thousands of locations requires significant investment and resources.
• Strategic Reassessment: Fast-food chains frequently introduce limited-time offers to gauge customer interest and drive traffic. After assessing the results of the initial launch, Panda Express may be reassessing their long-term plant-based strategy and considering different approaches. It’s possible they’re exploring other plant-based dishes or seeking to optimize the Beyond Orange Chicken recipe further.
• Cost Considerations: Plant-based meat alternatives often come with a higher price tag than their animal-based counterparts. Balancing affordability with profitability is a constant challenge, and the cost of Beyond Meat may have played a role in the decision to discontinue the national offering.

The Lingering Hope for a Comeback

Despite the discontinuation, there are reasons to remain optimistic about the potential return of Beyond Orange Chicken.

• Proven Popularity: The initial success demonstrated a clear demand for the product. Panda Express now has data to support the viability of plant-based options and can use that data to inform future decisions.
• Evolving Plant-Based Market: The plant-based food market continues to grow and evolve. As technology improves and production costs decrease, plant-based alternatives are becoming more affordable and accessible. This could make a future launch of Beyond Orange Chicken more economically feasible.
• Panda Express’s Commitment to Innovation: Panda Express has a history of introducing new menu items and experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. The Beyond Orange Chicken launch demonstrated their willingness to innovate and cater to evolving consumer preferences.
• Social Media Buzz: Even after its discontinuation, Beyond Orange Chicken continues to be a topic of discussion on social media. This ongoing buzz keeps the product top-of-mind for Panda Express and highlights the continued demand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Beyond Orange Chicken

1. Is Beyond Orange Chicken completely vegan?

No. While the Beyond Meat component is plant-based and vegan, the Orange Chicken sauce contains honey, which is not considered vegan. Therefore, the final dish is vegetarian but not vegan.

2. Was Beyond Orange Chicken healthier than regular Orange Chicken?

Nutritionally, Beyond Orange Chicken had slightly fewer calories and saturated fat but similar levels of sodium compared to traditional Orange Chicken. However, healthier is subjective. It’s crucial to compare nutrition labels and consider individual dietary needs.

3. Where was Beyond Orange Chicken initially tested?

The initial test markets for Beyond Orange Chicken included select locations in Southern California and New York City.

4. Did Panda Express offer any other plant-based options?

Beyond Orange Chicken was the first significant foray into plant-based offerings on a national scale. However, some locations might offer vegetarian sides like chow mein, rice, and vegetables.

5. How did the price of Beyond Orange Chicken compare to regular Orange Chicken?

Beyond Orange Chicken was typically priced slightly higher than regular Orange Chicken, reflecting the premium cost of Beyond Meat.

6. Can I still find Beyond Orange Chicken at any Panda Express locations?

It is highly unlikely. While some individual franchises might have residual stock, Beyond Orange Chicken is no longer offered on the official menu at most Panda Express locations. Check with your local branch just in case.

7. What are the chances of Panda Express partnering with other plant-based meat companies?

It’s possible. Panda Express is likely exploring different options and partnerships to find the best plant-based solutions that meet their quality and cost requirements.

8. How can I let Panda Express know I want Beyond Orange Chicken back?

The best way is to make your voice heard! Contact Panda Express through their website, social media channels, or customer service line. Express your interest in seeing Beyond Orange Chicken return to the menu.

9. Are there any copycat recipes for Beyond Orange Chicken?

Yes! A quick online search will reveal numerous copycat recipes attempting to recreate the flavor and texture of Beyond Orange Chicken. These recipes offer a DIY alternative for fans who miss the dish.

10. What impact did Beyond Orange Chicken have on other fast-food chains?

The successful launch of Beyond Orange Chicken likely encouraged other fast-food chains to explore and expand their plant-based offerings. It demonstrated the growing demand and potential market for these options.

11. Will Panda Express consider a limited-time return for Beyond Orange Chicken?

This is the most likely scenario. A limited-time offer (LTO) allows Panda Express to gauge continued interest, test different strategies, and generate excitement without committing to a permanent menu addition.

12. What other factors might influence the return of Beyond Orange Chicken?

Several factors could play a role, including the overall economic climate, changes in consumer preferences, advancements in plant-based technology, and Panda Express’s broader strategic priorities.

In conclusion, while the immediate future of Beyond Orange Chicken remains uncertain, its initial success and the evolving landscape of plant-based cuisine suggest that we haven’t seen the last of this innovative dish. Keep your fingers crossed and your taste buds ready – a return might be closer than you think!