If you’re into bold flavors, Panda Express has something new that you’ll want to try ASAP. The popular Chinese-American fast food chain has just launched a limited-time dish called Chili Crisp Chicken, and it brings the heat and the sweet all in one bite. This new item is part of a collab with Mike’s Hot Honey, the spicy-sweet sauce brand that has become a big deal across the country.
Mike’s Hot Honey has worked with big names like Dunkin’, KFC, and Taco Bell. Now, it’s teaming up with Panda Express to put a fiery twist on Chinese-inspired comfort food. This combo is called swicy – sweet plus spicy – and it’s one of the biggest food trends of the year.
What’s in the Chili Crisp Chicken?
This dish is inspired by Chongqing chicken, a famous dry chili chicken recipe from China. Panda Express starts with their crispy chicken bites, then tosses them with green bell peppers, onions, and lots of dried red chilies. The whole mix gets coated in a chili crisp garlic sauce that’s both spicy and savory. Finally, it’s drizzled with Mike’s Hot Honey to add that sweet kick.
The flavors are bold and balanced. You get the crunch from the fried chicken, the heat from the chili sauce, and a little sweetness from the honey. It’s got a great mix of textures and flavors in every bite. If you like your food spicy but not too overwhelming, this one hits the sweet spot.
What Are People Saying About It?
Food reviewers online are already sharing their thoughts. One YouTuber, Reviews with the Blonde, said the dish reminded him of Chick-fil-A nuggets but spicier. He gave it a solid nine out of ten. He did mention he wanted more sauce though. On Instagram, reviewer Nicole Ludwig also said the sauce was a bit light.
Luckily, if you want more of that sweet heat, you can buy extra packs of Mike’s Hot Honey for $0.95. But be quick, since they’re only available in-store and while supplies last.
Where Can You Try It?
The Chili Crisp Chicken isn’t in all locations yet. Right now, you can try it if you’re in Chicago, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Houston, or the Albuquerque-Santa Fe area. It’s only available until July 15 or until they run out, whichever comes first.
Chef Jimmy Wang from Panda Express said they wanted to make something bold, crispy, and craveable. With the combo of their own chili crisp garlic sauce and Mike’s Hot Honey, they definitely created something exciting.
Panda Express Loves to Spice Things Up
This isn’t Panda Express’s first time mixing sweet and spicy. In the past, they’ve released Hot Orange Chicken and Blazing Bourbon Chicken. Both dishes added heat to their classic sweet flavors. But the Chili Crisp Chicken might be their boldest swicy option yet. If you love mixing hot and sweet, it’s worth checking out.
