Panda Express Orange Chicken

Crispy homemade Orange Chicken, just like Panda Express! This delightful dish features pieces of boneless chicken breast that are deep-fried and then tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce made from scratch. Panda Express Orange Chicken is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its appealing flavor profile and easy preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Fry the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken
• With Steamed Rice
• On a Bed of Fried Rice
• Garnished with Green Onions
• Accompanied by Egg Rolls
• Drizzled with Extra Sauce
• With Sesame Seeds
• How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken
• Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Panda Express Orange Chicken sauce?
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
• How spicy is Panda Express Orange Chicken?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• How do I customize my Panda Express Orange Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and tangy flavors will tantalize your taste buds, reminiscent of the beloved restaurant classic.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving over rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or get-togethers, everyone will love this homemade version of their favorite takeout.
• Easily Adjustable: Want it spicier? Simply add more crushed red pepper flakes to suit your palate.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare the Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or heavy pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or heavy pot: Ensures even cooking and perfect crispiness for the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing the batter and sauce without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your orange sauce.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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))
– 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 wine ((or apple cider vinegar))

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, pepper, sunflower oil, cornstarch, and flour until well combined. Add the chicken pieces to the mixture and ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, approximately 5–7 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger root, orange juice concentrate, sesame oil, rice wine, and cornstarch. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, add the fried chicken pieces into the saucepan. Toss until each piece is thoroughly coated with the sweet and tangy orange sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your delicious homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Enjoy!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice is the classic companion for Orange Chicken, providing a neutral base that absorbs the flavorful sauce.

On a Bed of Fried Rice

• Serve your Orange Chicken over fried rice for an extra burst of flavor and texture. The savory rice complements the sweetness of the chicken.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top to add a touch of color and a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall presentation.

Accompanied by Egg Rolls

• Pair with crispy egg rolls for a crunchy contrast. These can add a great textural variety to your meal.

Drizzled with Extra Sauce

• For those who love sauce, drizzle additional orange sauce over the chicken right before serving. This keeps everything juicy and flavorful.

With Sesame Seeds

• A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and makes your dish look more appealing and gourmet.

How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken

To make sure your Panda Express Orange Chicken turns out just right, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and ingredients will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Don’t Skip Marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate helps it absorb flavors better, resulting in a tastier final product.
• Watch Your Frying Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar in the sauce according to your taste preference for a sweeter or less sweet dish.
• Add More Spice: If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the Orange Chicken right after cooking while it’s still crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken

Enhance your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with Panda Express Orange Chicken.

1. Fried Rice: A savory option that’s packed with vegetables and proteins, making it filling and flavorful.
2. Chow Mein: This noodle dish adds a nice crunch and is often enjoyed alongside many Chinese meals.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Fresh veggies stir-fried quickly retain their crunchiness while complementing the sweetness of the chicken.
4. Sweet and Sour Soup: A light soup can balance out the richness of the Orange Chicken, providing a refreshing contrast.
5. Potstickers: These dumplings are crispy on one side and tender on the other, making them an excellent addition to any plate.
6. Chinese Broccoli: Lightly steamed or stir-fried broccoli gives a healthy green touch while being easy to prepare.
7. Egg Drop Soup: This simple yet comforting soup pairs well with any Chinese main dish, including orange chicken.
8. Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables are another great appetizer that complements this sweet dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home can be fun and rewarding, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch out for.

• Skipping marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to less flavorful meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Cook in batches to ensure crispiness.
• Neglecting the sauce: If you don’t cook the sauce long enough, it may not thicken properly. Allow it to simmer until it reaches a desired consistency.
• Using low-quality oil: Using an unsuitable oil can alter the flavor. Choose a neutral oil like sunflower or canola for best results.
• Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking or undercooking chicken can ruin texture. Use a thermometer to check that it’s cooked through.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Panda Express Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken

• For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can last up to 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté the chicken until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Panda Express Orange Chicken.

How do I make Panda Express Orange Chicken sauce?

To make the sauce, combine vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, orange juice concentrate, and crushed red pepper flakes in a saucepan and simmer until thickened.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They will add extra moisture and flavor to your Panda Express Orange Chicken.

How spicy is Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Panda Express Orange Chicken is mildly spicy due to crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos to make this Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free.

How do I customize my Panda Express Orange Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Experiment with different levels of sweetness by adjusting sugar amounts.

Final Thoughts

Panda Express Orange Chicken is an irresistible dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with crispy chicken. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep! Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level. Enjoy making this delightful recipe!