What cooking technique is commonly used for dishes at Panda Express?

Deep frying is commonly used for dishes at Panda Express due to its ability to create crispy, flavorful results that are characteristic of many Chinese-American dishes. This technique involves immersing food in hot oil, allowing it to cook quickly and develop a golden, crunchy exterior while retaining moisture inside. Many popular menu items at Panda Express, such as their Orange Chicken and Beijing Beef, rely on deep frying to achieve the desired taste and texture that customers expect.

While other techniques like baking, sautéing, and steaming are also valuable in culinary practices, they do not align as closely with the signature items and preparation style of Panda Express. Baking typically produces a more subtle flavor and texture, sautéing involves less oil and a quicker cook time that may not yield the same level of crispiness, and steaming preserves moisture and nutrients, which may not reflect the bold, crispy experience associated with the chain.