Panda Express Orange Chicken

Crispy homemade Orange Chicken, just like Panda Express! This dish features tender pieces of boneless chicken breast that are deep-fried to perfection and coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce made from scratch. Panda Express Orange Chicken is the perfect choice for family dinners, parties, or a cozy night in. With its inviting flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making this dish at home is a breeze.
• Flavorful Sauce – The sweet and tangy orange sauce elevates the chicken and brings a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal – Serve it over rice, with noodles, or as part of a larger feast; it’s adaptable for any occasion.
• No Special Ingredients Required – You can easily find all ingredients in your local grocery store.
• Family-Friendly Option – Not too spicy and packed with flavor, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you achieve delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot – Essential for achieving that golden-brown crispy texture on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls – Helpful for combining your ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk – Ensures even mixing of sauces and coatings for maximum flavor.
• Spatula or tongs – Perfect for flipping chicken pieces safely while frying.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Panda Express Orange Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Coating

• 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
• 1 egg
• 1 Tbsp sunflower oil (or any neutral flavored oil)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (heaping)

For the Orange Sauce

• 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut liquid aminos)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1/2 tsp zested ginger root (peeled)
• 1 Tbsp orange juice concentrate (or 3 Tbsp orange juice)
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice apple vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper. Add in the cornstarch and flour until well combined.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken into the batter mixture until fully coated. Ensure they are covered evenly for optimal crispiness when fried.

Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying

In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown. This should take about 4–5 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, and orange juice concentrate. Stir continuously until it thickens—approximately 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add in the fried chicken pieces. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly with the luscious orange sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken hot over steamed rice or alongside noodles. Enjoy this delightful meal with family or friends!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Serving Panda Express Orange Chicken is all about enhancing its flavors and presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

On Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic option that absorbs the orange sauce, balancing the dish’s sweetness.
• Fried Rice: Adds texture and flavor, complementing the crispy chicken perfectly.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Offers a nutritious crunch and bright color, making your plate visually appealing.
• Sautéed Bell Peppers: Their sweetness matches the orange chicken, adding a vibrant pop of color.

In Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite-sized option.
• Flour Tortillas: Create tasty wraps filled with chicken, some veggies, and extra sauce for added flavor.

How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken

Perfecting your Panda Express Orange Chicken can elevate your cooking game. Follow these tips to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture without excess oiliness.
• Marinate Chicken: Marinating the chicken briefly in soy sauce before coating helps infuse flavor.
• Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Frying the chicken twice ensures it stays crispy even after being coated in sauce.
• Balance Your Sauce: Adjust sweetness and tang by tasting as you go; this will help you achieve a balanced orange sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Panda Express Orange Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A savory blend of rice, vegetables, and eggs makes for a satisfying complement.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables provide freshness and color to your plate.
3. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or chicken add a delightful crunch and texture contrast.
4. Noodle Salad: A chilled noodle salad with sesame dressing offers a refreshing twist alongside the warm orange chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, quinoa salad can add a healthy grain option to your meal.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy chicken, creating a delicious combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Panda Express Orange Chicken turn out perfectly delicious. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Incorrect chicken preparation: Failing to properly cut the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Cut your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even frying.
• Not using enough oil: Using too little oil can result in soggy chicken instead of crispy bites. Ensure your frying oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces completely.
• Skipping the marination step: Rushing through the marination means missing out on richer flavors. Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcooking the sauce: Letting the sauce boil for too long can lead it to become too thick or burnt. Stir and watch closely until it reaches a smooth consistency.
• Inaccurate measurements: Not measuring ingredients precisely can alter the flavor balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with sweet and tangy components.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Panda Express Orange Chicken:

What is Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a popular dish featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, perfect for any dinner.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless turkey or even beef if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat chosen.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken your sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.

Is there a vegetarian version of Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! Substitute tofu or cauliflower for chicken, following the same preparation steps, to create a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Can I double this recipe?

Definitely! Just ensure you have enough space in your cooking pot for frying without overcrowding, which ensures crispy results.

Final Thoughts

This Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe offers an easy way to enjoy restaurant-style flavor at home. Its sweet and tangy profile pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables, allowing customization based on your preferences. Give it a try and elevate your dinner experience!

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Panda Express Orange Chicken

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Crispy homemade Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that captures the essence of your favorite takeout without leaving the comfort of your home. This recipe features tender pieces of boneless chicken, expertly coated in a light batter and fried to golden perfection. The sweet and tangy orange sauce, made from scratch, complements the crispy chicken beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality results that will impress everyone at your table.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts
• 1 egg
• 1 Tbsp sunflower oil
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1/2 tsp zested ginger root (peeled)
• 1 Tbsp orange juice concentrate
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice apple vinegar

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Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper. Add cornstarch and flour until well combined.
2. Coat each piece of chicken in the batter mixture evenly.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. For the sauce, combine vinegar, sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, and orange juice concentrate in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until thickened (about 5 minutes).
5. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 95mg