Top Items on Panda Express’s Menu Ranked

Panda Express has become one of America’s most iconic fast‑casual restaurants, known for its bold sauces, crispy textures, and comforting flavors. The menu has grown into a lineup of signature entrées and sides that bring customers to return again and again. This year’s ranking highlights the dishes that consistently rise to the top and offers a recommendation to craft the dish at home.

1. The Original Orange Chicken

The undisputed champion of the Panda Express menu, Orange Chicken remains the most beloved entrée. Reviewers praise its crispy coating, sweet‑savory glaze, and signature tang that has defined Panda Express.

To recreate this dish at home, shoppers are turning to the Panda Express Gourmet Chinese Orange Chicken Sauce that deliver the same sticky, citrus‑forward flavor.

2. Chow Mein

Panda Express Chow Mein is consistently ranked as the best side on the menu thanks to its tender noodles, savory seasoning, and satisfying texture. It’s simple, comforting, and pairs well with every entrée.

To recreate the dish at home, shoppers choose the La Choy Chow Mein Noodles that fry up light, crisp, and golden.

3. Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is the only entrée that reliably delivers the spice it promises. Critics highlight its bold chili flavor, crunchy peanuts, and savory sauce that adds depth without overwhelming heat.

To recreate this dish at home, the closest match is the Panda Express Kung Pao Stir Fry Sauce, which delivers the same spicy‑savory balance.

4. Beijing Beef

Beijing Beef offers a sweet‑spicy flavor similar to Orange Chicken but with beef, onions, and peppers. It’s bold, saucy, and a favorite among fans who enjoy a deeper, richer glaze.

The closest at‑home match is the Panda Express Beijing Sweet & Tangy Sauce, a premium, hard‑to‑find product that mirrors the restaurant’s flavor profile.

5. Black Pepper Chicken

Black Pepper Chicken earns praise for its bold seasoning and tender texture. The peppery sauce make it one of the most flavorful entrées.

To recreate this at home, shoppers often use Kikkoman Sauce Stir-Fry that include pepper‑forward blends similar to Panda Express’s version.

6. Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

This entrée offers a sweet glaze and a refreshing contrast in contrast to other dishes.

The closest at‑home match is a Panda Express Sauce Variety Bundle, which includes Sweet Chili and Stir Fry sauces that replicate the dish’s sweet‑savory profile.

7. Broccoli Beef

A reliable classic with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce that avoids being overly sweet. It consistently ranks in the top half of menu items.

To recreate this dish at home, shoppers choose Glicks Wide Chow Mein Noodles that pair well with beef and broccoli.

8. Sweet Chili Chicken

A tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy dish that appeals to fans who enjoy a lighter glaze. It’s flavorful, bright, and pairs well with Chow Mein or Fried Rice.

The closest match is the Panda Express Sauce Variety Bundle, included in the variety bundle.

9. Mandarin Teriyaki Chicken

A sweet, glossy teriyaki dish that’s popular among fans who prefer chicken. The sauce is thick, sticky, and full of umami.

The best at‑home match is the Panda Express Mandarin Teriyaki Sauce, included in the variety bundle.