If you have ever craved that irresistible, tangy, and crispy flavor explosion from your favorite takeout spot, you are going to fall head over heels for this Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe. This beloved copycat brings together tender, juicy chicken coated in a perfectly crispy crust, all smothered in a sticky-sweet and citrusy orange sauce that sings with every bite. The magic of this recipe lies in its balance of bold flavors and textures, giving you that classic Chinese-American comfort food experience right in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try making this at home, you’ll never want to wait for delivery again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. Each one is simple but plays an essential role—from the cornstarch that creates that signature crispy coating to the fresh orange juice that delivers zesty brightness. Together, they build a perfect harmony of flavor and texture you won’t be able to resist.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Use fresh chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender bites.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: The secret to achieving a crispy, golden crust that holds the sauce so well.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken, giving you that unbeatable crunch.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection without overpowering flavors.
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best): Adds vibrant citrus notes that brighten the whole dish with natural sweetness.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings depth and umami that balance out the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Enhances the sticky glaze with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to cut through the richness and lift the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Fresh ginger gives zing and a hint of warmth that complements the orange perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want a gentle touch of heat to balance the sweet and sour.
How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breast into bite-sized cubes that cook quickly and absorb the sauce better. Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch to coat them evenly, then dip each piece into the beaten egg. This two-step coating process is crucial—it creates that irresistible, crunchy exterior that’s the hallmark of this dish.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crisp up nicely. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy inside while crunchy outside.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
In the same skillet, mix together the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. This sauce is where the magic happens—as it heats, the flavors meld into a sticky, fragrant glaze that perfectly coats the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the crispy chicken to the skillet and toss it in the simmering orange sauce. Keep everything on the heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and lovingly glazes each piece. This step ensures every bite is bursting with that classic Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe flavor you love.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat and get ready to dish up this feast. Serve your orange chicken hot with your preferred side to soak up all the saucy goodness. Your home-cooked delight is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds adds a fresh pop of color and extra texture to your orange chicken. These little touches bring a professional look and a burst of flavor that makes every bite even more exciting. Plus, they reinforce the vibrant, appetizing appeal of this dish.
Side Dishes
Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside chow mein noodles or fried rice. Steamed broccoli or snap peas add a fresh crunch that balances the sweet and tangy chicken perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make a memorable meal, try serving the orange chicken in lettuce wraps or over a bed of quinoa for a healthy twist. You can also offer a build-your-own bowl with rice, veggies, and orange chicken, letting everyone customize their perfect plate. This way, Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe never gets boring!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken flavorful and retains the crispness better than loosely covered dishes. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to keep the sauce intact.
Freezing
While freshly made orange chicken is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Separate the chicken and sauce if possible to maintain the crispiness upon reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat rather than a microwave to preserve that wonderful crispy texture. Add the chicken and sauce together in the pan and warm until heated through, stirring occasionally. This keeps the dish deliciously close to fresh.
FAQs
Can I use dark meat chicken instead of breast?
Absolutely! Dark meat like thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor to your orange chicken, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly due to the higher fat content.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari and ensure your cornstarch is pure without additives. This way, you can enjoy the Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe without any gluten concerns.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle, warm heat that doesn’t overpower the sweet and tangy sauce but adds a subtle kick. You can adjust the amount or omit them if you prefer it milder.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. You can mix and refrigerate the sauce components separately up to a day ahead. Just bring it to a simmer when ready to cook and proceed with tossing in the fried chicken.
What’s the best oil for frying the chicken?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, is ideal. They provide a clean flavor and ensure the chicken crisps up nicely without burning.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe a try in your own kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to bring that nostalgic, flavorful experience home with wholesome ingredients you control. Once you master this recipe, you might find that orange chicken becomes your new favorite comfort food to share with family and friends. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-American
Description
This Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe offers a deliciously crispy, golden chicken coated in a tangy and sweet orange sauce. With fresh orange juice, ginger, and a hint of spice, it’s a delightful homemade version of the popular takeout favorite that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Orange Sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, preparing for frying the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Coat the cubed chicken pieces evenly in cornstarch, then dip each piece in the beaten egg to ensure a crispy shell upon frying.
- Fry Chicken: Add the coated chicken pieces to the hot skillet and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet and toss them thoroughly in the simmering orange sauce to coat.
- Thicken Sauce: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and evenly glazes the chicken pieces.
- Serve: Serve the orange chicken hot, ideally accompanied by steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For an extra crispy texture, double dip the chicken in cornstarch and egg.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor, but bottled orange juice can be used in a pinch.
- Use a thermometer for oil to maintain consistent frying temperature around 350°F (175°C) for best results.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
