Panda Express Blazing Bourbon Chicken

Panda Express has teamed up with the iconic YouTube series Hot Ones for an intense flavor journey panda express blazing bourbon chicken. This limited-time entrée brings the heat, thanks to the infamous Last Dab Apollo Hot Sauce, the spiciest sauce from the Hot Ones lineup. It’s a fusion of fast-casual Chinese-American cuisine with the fiery kick that Hot Ones fans love.

What Is Hot Ones?

Hot Ones is a YouTube series where host Sean Evans interviews celebrities as they eat wings doused in sauces of increasing intensity. It all culminates with The Last Dab, a sauce known to make even the toughest celebs sweat and tear up. This intense heat is now infused into Panda Express’ latest menu item.

What’s in the Blazing Bourbon Chicken?

The panda express blazing bourbon chicken features:

  • Crispy boneless chicken bites
  • Wok-tossed bell peppers, onions, and chili peppers
  • A sweet and spicy bourbon sauce
  • A dash of sesame seeds for garnish
  • Infused with Hot Ones Last Dab Apollo Hot Sauce

This blend offers crunch, heat, and depth of flavor, all in one saucy bite.

How Spicy Is It, Really?

While it’s being marketed as Panda Express’ spiciest dish ever, how hot is it actually? Here’s the breakdown:

  • It packs a punch, more than any other Panda entree to date.
  • However, it doesn’t reach the same tear-inducing level seen on the Hot Ones show.
  • You’ll feel a sweat on your brow and some mouth-tingling, but it’s tolerable for most spice lovers.
  • The spice is balanced – you get heat without losing out on flavor.

Flavor Profile Breakdown

Panda Express excels at crafting sweet-and-savory sauces, and this one is no different. Let’s dig into the flavor:

  • Sweetness: Likely from honey or brown sugar.
  • Umami notes: A hint of soy sauce-style depth.
  • Bourbon flavor: Subtle but present – it adds warmth.
  • Spice: Pure heat, with minimal “hot pepper flavor.”

The sauce does a great job complementing the chicken without overwhelming it.

Texture & Ingredients Review

This isn’t just about spice—it’s about texture, too.

  • Crispy chicken coating: Holds up well under sauce.
  • Wok-tossed veggies: Onions and bell peppers add a crisp, fresh bite.
  • Chili peppers: Add an extra level of spice and crunch.
  • Sesame seeds: Tiny but noticeable garnish with a nutty finish.

The contrast of textures—crispy chicken and crunchy vegetables—makes for a satisfying mouthfeel.

Is It Better Than Orange Chicken?

For many fans, Orange Chicken is the go-to Panda Express favorite. But some are calling this Blazing Bourbon Chicken a worthy replacement:

  • It’s more flavorful and layered.
  • It has a better kick for spice lovers.
  • Still carries that comforting, indulgent vibe.

Many online reviewers even say they’d choose this over Orange Chicken any day of the week.

National Availability and Limited-Time Status

Initially a test item in select markets, Blazing Bourbon Chicken made its nationwide debut on September 4, 2024. It’s currently available for a limited time at participating Panda Express locations.

So if you’re curious, don’t wait too long—once it’s gone, it might not come back.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s what you’re biting into, based on a 5.5 oz serving:

  • Calories: 400
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 14g

Not the lightest meal, but certainly one that packs flavor and satisfaction.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Trying?

If you’re a fan of:

  • Spicy food
  • Hot Ones-style flavor challenges
  • Bold, unique collabs
  • Or just love Panda Express…

Then yes, this is absolutely worth a try. It’s Panda’s boldest, most adventurous flavor yet—delivering something more complex and exciting than their usual offerings.