Panda Express is bringing back Hot Orange Chicken to more than 2,500 locations nationwide starting July 11, 2026.
When Hot Orange Chicken Returns
The spicy dish returns on July 11, 2026, just days before National Orange Chicken Day on July 15. This marks the third year in a row that Panda Express has brought the dish back by popular demand, according to a company announcement noting the limited-time menu item drops just ahead of National Orange Chicken Day, as reported by GlobeNewswire.
Why Panda Express Brought It Back
Hot Orange Chicken has become one of the chain’s most requested limited-time menu items since it first debuted, returning for a third consecutive year after continued demand on social media, according to Fox 17 Nashville. Hot Orange Chicken is Panda’s best-selling limited-time menu offer in history and a viral sensation, consistently ranking within the top three most-requested returns from Panda Express on social media, based on the company’s own statement reported by GlobeNewswire. Fox 17
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What Makes It Different From The Original
The recipe includes six times more crushed chili peppers than the original Orange Chicken, along with the same scorched dried chilies used in the restaurant’s Kung Pao Chicken, according to Fox 17 Nashville. The base recipe still starts with the same crispy chicken and signature orange sauce used in the original dish, based on details confirmed by Restaurant Magazine. Fox 17
Where And How To Get It
Hot Orange Chicken is available at all 2,500+ Panda Express locations nationwide while supplies last, starting July 11. Customers can find their nearest location, order online, or use the Panda Express app, according to GlobeNewswire. The dish is also available at Universal CityWalk Orlando locations, based on reporting from MSM News.
Price And Nutrition Details
There is no additional upcharge for Hot Orange Chicken, and it is priced the same as other Panda Express entrees. One serving of Hot Orange Chicken, at 5.92 ounces, contains 550 calories and 17 grams of protein, according to the company’s official release published by GlobeNewswire.
Quick Reference Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Return date | July 11, 2026 |
| National Orange Chicken Day | July 15, 2026 |
| Locations | 2,500+ nationwide |
| Extra cost | None, same price as regular entrees |
| Calories per serving | 550 (5.92 oz) |
| Protein per serving | 17g |
| Spice source | 6x more crushed chili, plus dried chilies from Kung Pao Chicken |
Background On The Original Dish
Panda Express created the Original Orange Chicken in 1987 in Hawaii, drawing from the flavors of China’s Hunan Province and local Hawaiian citrus. The company says it served 148 million pounds of the entree in 2025 alone, accounting for roughly one-third of all entrees sold, according to Fox 17 Nashville. Fox 17
FAQ: Panda Express Returning Spicy Dish — Hot Orange Chicken
Q: When is Panda Express bringing back Hot Orange Chicken?
A: Hot Orange Chicken returns to Panda Express locations nationwide starting July 11, 2026, just ahead of National Orange Chicken Day on July 15.
Q: Why is Panda Express returning this spicy dish now?
A: The company brought back the item due to massive social media demand, with the dish consistently ranking within the top three most-requested returns on social media. This marks its third consecutive year returning. Restaurant MagazineFox 17
Q: What is Hot Orange Chicken exactly?
A: It’s Panda Express’ fiery take on its iconic Original Orange Chicken, using the same signature orange sauce but with added heat. The recipe includes six times more crushed chili than the original recipe, plus a half-cup of the same scorched dried chilies used in Kung Pao Chicken. Restaurant Magazine
Q: How spicy is Hot Orange Chicken?
A: It delivers a noticeable heat level while keeping the sweet-and-spicy balance the original dish is known for, and it’s significantly spicier than the classic version — built for fans who want a serious kick.
Q: Will Hot Orange Chicken cost extra?
A: No. There’s no additional upcharge — it’s priced the same as Panda Express’s other entrees.
Q: Where can I get it?
A: It’s available at all 2,500+ Panda Express locations nationwide while supplies last. You can order in-store, online, or through the Panda Express app.
Q: How many calories are in Hot Orange Chicken?
A: One serving (5.92 oz) contains 550 calories and 17g of protein. Restaurant Magazine
Q: Is this the same as the Dynamite Sweet & Sour Chicken from earlier this year?
A: No — that’s a different spicy item. Dynamite Sweet & Sour Chicken was a Buldak collaboration that launched nationwide back in March 2026. Hot Orange Chicken is a separate, returning fan-favorite tied to National Orange Chicken Day.
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