Crispy homemade Orange Chicken, just like Panda Express! This dish features pieces of boneless chicken breast that are deep-fried and then coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce made from scratch. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, Panda Express Orange Chicken is not too spicy and incredibly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes this orange chicken a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with noodles, or as part of a larger spread; it fits any meal setting.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty treat without overwhelming spice levels.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own version means you control the ingredients for a fresher taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your own Panda Express Orange Chicken, gather the essential tools needed in the kitchen. Having the right equipment on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot: A deep fryer ensures even cooking while a large pot allows for plenty of oil to fry the chicken thoroughly.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for mixing ingredients and marinating the chicken before cooking.
• Whisk: Use it to blend sauces smoothly, ensuring all ingredients combine well.
• Cooking thermometer: This tool helps check the oil temperature for perfect frying.

this recipe

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 mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper. Add the cornstarch and flour gradually until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat your deep fryer or large pot with oil to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully coat each piece of chicken in your egg mixture, then fry them in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, and orange juice concentrate. Stir until sugar dissolves. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the saucepan and stir continuously until thickened.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once thickened, add your fried chicken pieces into the saucepan with the orange sauce. Toss gently until all pieces are well-coated in that delicious sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken hot over steamed rice or alongside noodles. Enjoy!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Serving Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful experience that allows you to showcase the dish’s vibrant flavors. Whether for a family meal or a gathering with friends, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve your orange chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice soaks up the sweet and tangy sauce, balancing the dish perfectly.

On a Bed of Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the orange chicken with colorful stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and texture. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas work wonderfully together.

In a Wrap

• Create a delicious wrap by placing orange chicken in a tortilla along with fresh lettuce and shredded carrots. Drizzle with extra sauce for an exciting twist.

As Part of a Rice Bowl

• Make a hearty rice bowl by layering brown or white rice with orange chicken, toppings like avocado slices, and sesame seeds for crunch.

With Noodles

• Serve your orange chicken alongside lo mein or chow mein noodles. Toss the noodles in the same sauce for an integrated flavor profile.

How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken

Perfecting your Panda Express Orange Chicken takes just a few tips to ensure crispy chicken and flavorful sauce.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the taste of your sauce significantly.
• Double Fry the Chicken: For extra crispiness, fry the chicken twice—first at a lower temperature, then again at higher heat.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference in the sauce.
• Thicken Your Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and add it gradually while simmering.
• Marinate Chicken: Marinating the chicken briefly in soy sauce adds depth to its flavor before frying.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Panda Express Orange Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice
   A classic companion, fried rice adds texture and flavor. Consider adding peas and carrots for color.

2. Spring Rolls
   These crispy appetizers complement orange chicken well. Filled with veggies or shrimp, they provide crunch.

3. Garlic Broccoli
   Sautéed broccoli with garlic makes for a nutritious side that balances the sweetness of the orange chicken.

4. Egg Drop Soup
   This light soup is soothing and pairs nicely as a starter before diving into the main dish.

5. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad adds a cool contrast to the warm dish. Toss cucumbers in vinegar for zestiness.

6. Sesame Noodles
   These savory noodles carry hints of sesame oil that harmonize beautifully with the flavors of orange chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Panda Express Orange Chicken taste even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong oil: Choosing an oil with a strong flavor can affect the dish. Stick to neutral oils like sunflower or vegetable oil for frying.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it dry. Ensure you fry until golden brown and check the internal temperature.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: A watery sauce won’t coat the chicken well. Adjust cornstarch in the sauce to achieve the right thickness.
• Not marinating enough: Skipping marination means less flavor. Allow the chicken to rest in seasoning for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using pre-minced garlic or ginger can dull flavors. Always use fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a popular dish featuring crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s known for its delightful flavor balance.

How do I make my Panda Express Orange Chicken crispy?

To ensure crispiness, coat the chicken thoroughly with cornstarch and fry it at a high temperature for a short time. This helps create that signature crunch.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless chicken breasts with turkey, beef, or lamb depending on your preference.

Is Panda Express Orange Chicken spicy?

No, this dish is not overly spicy. The flavor profile emphasizes sweetness with just a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes.

How can I customize my Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into your stir-fry for extra nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

This delicious Panda Express Orange Chicken is sure to impress everyone at your dinner table! Its combination of sweet and tangy flavors along with crispy chicken makes it a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give this recipe a try today!

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Crispy Homemade Orange Chicken

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

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Description

Crispy homemade Orange Chicken, reminiscent of your favorite takeout dish, is a delightful way to enjoy sweet and tangy flavors right in your kitchen. This easy recipe features tender chicken pieces that are deep-fried to a perfect golden brown and coated in a luscious orange sauce made from scratch. It’s a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious taste without overwhelming spice levels. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside noodles for a satisfying meal everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 egg
• 1 Tbsp sunflower oil
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1 Tbsp orange juice concentrate

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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. Gradually mix in cornstarch and flour until well combined.
2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Coat each chicken piece in the egg mixture and fry in batches until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a saucepan, mix white vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, and orange juice concentrate over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
4. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry; add to the saucepan and stir until thickened.
5. Toss fried chicken in the sauce until well coated. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra crispiness, consider double frying the chicken. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.