Panda Express Style Orange Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

Panda Express Style Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the popular Chinese-American fast food to your kitchen. This incredible recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The dish is not only mouthwatering but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals. Bursting with citrusy goodness and a hint of spice from the ginger and garlic, this orange chicken is worth making time and again. You’ll love the way this recipe captures the essence of your favorite takeout in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Panda Express Style Orange Chicken recipe is simply irresistible! With easy prep and minimal ingredients, you’ll find that it is perfect for busy weeknights. The dish is family-friendly, ensuring that even your picky eaters will savor each bite of the juicy chicken enveloped in the luscious sauce. Whether you choose to make this dish following traditional methods or want a quicker, modern spin, this recipe will cater to your needs, allowing you the flexibility of time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests with your culinary skills without spending hours at the stove!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons oil (for batter)
• 2-3 cups oil for frying
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange (about 1 teaspoon)
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided)
• Cornstarch slurry for sauce (≈ 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 3 tablespoons water)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. As you blend the dry ingredients, take in the delightful aroma of the flour and spices. This mixture will create the perfect crunchy coating for your chicken.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the water and the oil until well combined. The consistency should be smooth and slightly frothy. Combine the wet and dry mixtures to create a sticky batter that clings to the chicken pieces.
3. Toss the chicken cubes in the batter until they are fully coated. All those tender pieces need to be enveloped in deliciousness! Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator while you heat the oil for frying.
4. Heat the frying oil in a large pan to about 375°F (190‑190°C). Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer.
5. Working in batches, gently lower the battered chicken into the hot oil. Fry until the pieces turn golden brown and crispy, typically about 5-6 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack over paper towels to drain excess oil. The satisfying crunch begins here!
6. While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of oil along with a tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you prefer a touch of heat). Sauté until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
7. Add in the brown sugar, fresh orange juice, white vinegar, soy sauce, and orange zest. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Allow the vibrant flavors to mingle and the sugar to dissolve.
8. To thicken the sauce, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch and water. Stir this mixture into the sauce, allowing it to simmer until it reaches a beautiful glaze consistency.
9. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the luscious orange sauce until they are thoroughly coated. The sight of that glossy glaze clinging to the chicken will make your mouth water.
10. Serve immediately over fluffy white rice. For an elegant presentation, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Get ready for a delicious meal that dazzles the eyes and satisfies the taste buds!

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Panda Express Style Orange Chicken, consider these chef’s secrets:

• Marinate the Chicken: If time allows, marinate the chicken pieces in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before coating them. This adds an extra depth of flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep track of the oil temperature throughout frying. Too low will make the chicken soggy, while too high can burn it.
• Experiment with Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This delightful orange chicken is best served over fluffy steaming rice, soaking up the glorious sauce. To add more dimension to your meal, consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or bok choy. For a touch of crunch, a side salad with a sesame dressing complements the flavorful chicken beautifully. You can also serve it with spring rolls or crispy wontons for a complete takeout-style experience at home.

Nutritional Information

While Panda Express Style Orange Chicken is certainly a treat, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Per serving, the approximate nutritional breakdown is:

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 20g
• Sugars: 8g

This recipe allows for indulgence while still incorporating proteins and essential nutrients from the chicken and garnishes.

Storing Tips & Variations For Panda Express Style Orange Chicken

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat and add a splash of water to retain sauciness. For a quicker option, microwave it on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring in between. If you want to make a healthier version, you could use air frying instead of deep frying for a lower-fat alternative. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations such as adding vegetables to the sauce, like bell peppers or snap peas, for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion For Panda Express Style Orange Chicken

Ready to bring the deliciousness of Panda Express Style Orange Chicken into your kitchen? This recipe promises to deliver that familiar restaurant flavor, all while being simple and fun to prepare. So gather your ingredients, savor the process, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to please every palate at your table. Your homemade orange chicken awaits!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
2. Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
3. How do I make the sauce spicier?
4. Add more crushed red pepper flakes or include a dash of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.
5. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
6. Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the texture will differ.
7. What can I serve with orange chicken?
8. It pairs excellently with fried rice, boiled rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
10. Absolutely! This recipe stores well, so it’s perfect for meal prepping. Just ensure to keep the chicken and sauce stored separately until ready to eat to maintain crispiness.