Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Panda Express Orange Chicken is one of the most beloved Chinese-American dishes, known for its crispy chicken bites coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. This copycat recipe lets you recreate the same delicious flavors at home using simple ingredients. With a perfectly crispy texture and a mouthwatering glaze, this homemade version will satisfy your takeout cravings in no time.

Let’s dive into the ultimate step-by-step guide to making this famous dish!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before starting, gather the following kitchen tools to ensure smooth preparation:

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Deep frying pan or wok
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Paper towels
• Small saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

What Do You Need to Prepare Panda Express Orange Chicken?

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat them in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat (about 350°F).
2. Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove chicken and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
2. Stir in orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir until the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Add the fried chicken to the saucepan and toss to coat evenly in the orange sauce.
2. Stir for 2-3 minutes until the chicken absorbs the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the Orange Chicken to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
3. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Variations

• Baked Version: Instead of deep frying, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.
• Air Fryer Version: Cook the coated chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Extra Spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add Sriracha to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute tofu or cauliflower for chicken and follow the same sauce preparation.

Cooking Note

To achieve the best crispy texture, use a combination of cornstarch and flour. The cornstarch helps create a light, crispy coating, similar to what you get at Panda Express. If frying in batches, keep the cooked chicken warm in a preheated oven (200°F) while finishing the remaining batches. Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to maintain an even fry.

Serving Suggestions

Panda Express Orange Chicken pairs best with:

• Steamed White Rice: A classic choice to balance the flavors.
• Fried Rice: For a richer meal, serve with vegetable or egg fried rice.
• Lo Mein or Chow Mein: Tossed noodles with stir-fried vegetables complement the dish perfectly.
• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: A great appetizer to complete your meal.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Orange Juice: It enhances the sauce’s flavor and gives it a natural tanginess.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, make a larger batch and drizzle over rice.
• Keep the Oil Hot: If the oil temperature drops too low, the chicken won’t get crispy.
• Drain Excess Oil: Use paper towels to remove extra oil for a crunchier bite.

Tips for the Best Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Choose Chicken Thighs: They are juicier than chicken breasts.
• Marinate the Chicken: Letting the chicken sit in the egg mixture for 15 minutes adds flavor.
• Thicken the Sauce Gradually: Add cornstarch slurry in small amounts to prevent over-thickening.

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe
• Easy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef
• Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Cheese Casserole Recipe
• Easy Hoisin Beef Noodles

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! Store the sauce and chicken separately in the fridge and toss them together before serving.

Q: Can I use store-bought orange juice?

A: Fresh orange juice is recommended, but store-bought works too. Just avoid pulpy juice.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for the best texture.

Conclusion

Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is easier than you think! With crispy golden-brown chicken coated in a tangy, sweet, and savory orange sauce, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Chinese takeout. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping, this homemade version delivers all the deliciousness of the original.

Try it today and enjoy the flavors of Panda Express right from your kitchen!

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