Panda Express Orange Chicken

Crispy homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken is the perfect dish for family dinners or casual get-togethers. This delightful recipe features tender pieces of chicken, deep-fried to golden perfection and coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce made from scratch. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this version captures the essence of the beloved takeout classic without any complicated steps. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish to impress your guests, this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe is sure to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and tangy orange sauce elevates the taste of the chicken, making it irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the crispy chicken and vibrant flavors, making it a hit at any table.
• Versatile Ingredients: The recipe allows for substitutions, so you can customize it to suit your tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will make your cooking journey enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture when frying the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients and preparing your batter and sauces efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps to mix ingredients thoroughly so that the batter is smooth and clump-free.

Ingredients

Crispy homemade Orange Chicken, just like Panda Express! Pieces of boneless chicken breast are deep-fried and then cooked in a sweet, tangy orange sauce made from scratch. Panda Express Orange Chicken is not too spicy and so easy to make!

For the Chicken

• 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 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

First, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the cornstarch and flour to another bowl.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first, then coat it in the cornstarch-flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crispiness.

Step 3: Heat Oil

In your deep fryer or large pot, heat enough oil for frying over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, orange juice concentrate, cornstarch mixed with water (for thickening), sesame oil, and rice apple vinegar. Stir continuously until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once cooked through, add the fried chicken pieces into the pan with your prepared orange sauce. Toss until all pieces are well-coated with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken!

This delicious recipe promises satisfaction with every bite!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice perfectly balances the sweet and tangy flavors of the orange chicken, making it a classic combination.

Over Noodles

• Serve the orange chicken over cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a delicious twist. The sauce will coat the noodles beautifully, creating a satisfying dish.

Accompanied by Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas or lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with orange chicken. Add some crunchy vegetables for an enjoyable hand-held meal.

As Part of a Feast

• Include orange chicken in a larger spread featuring other dishes like fried rice or egg rolls to impress your guests at gatherings or family dinners.

How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken

To achieve the ultimate homemade version of Panda Express Orange Chicken, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and orange juice greatly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
• Double Fry the Chicken: For extra crispiness, fry the chicken pieces twice. This method ensures they remain crunchy even after being coated in sauce.
• Control the Heat: Keep an eye on the frying temperature; too high can burn the coating while too low can lead to soggy chicken.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify sugar levels in the sauce according to your taste preference for sweetness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the fried chicken to rest before adding sauce helps maintain its crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken

When serving Panda Express Orange Chicken, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice
   A flavorful mix of rice sautéed with vegetables and soy sauce makes a perfect companion.

2. Spring Rolls
   Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

3. Chow Mein
   These stir-fried noodles add another layer of flavor and are great for soaking up extra sauce.

4. Garlic Green Beans
   Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh and nutritious addition to balance out the meal.

5. Asian Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad made with cucumbers and sesame dressing cleanses the palate between bites of the sweet chicken.

6. Vegetable Dumplings
   Soft dumplings filled with veggies complement the main dish well while adding variety to your plate.

7. Quinoa Salad
   Quinoa mixed with colorful veggies provides a healthy option that’s hearty yet light enough not to overpower the main dish.

8. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also offers essential nutrients alongside your flavorful main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong chicken parts: Always choose boneless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. Skin-on cuts can become greasy.
• Skimping on cornstarch: Ensure you use enough cornstarch for coating the chicken. It helps achieve that crispy texture.
• Overcooking the sauce: Be cautious not to cook the sauce too long; it should be thick but still pourable. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches the right consistency.
• Not letting the oil heat properly: Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A temperature of about 350°F (175°C) is ideal for crispy results.
• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken in egg and seasonings enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring garnishes: Adding sesame seeds or green onions as a garnish not only improves presentation but also adds extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture during reheating.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally. This method may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Panda Express Orange Chicken.

Can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut liquid aminos.

How spicy is Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Panda Express Orange Chicken has a mild spice level due to crushed red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or beef if you prefer different proteins.

What should I serve with Panda Express Orange Chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even lo mein noodles for a complete meal!

How do I keep my chicken crispy after cooking?

To maintain crispiness, avoid covering the chicken tightly and store it in a single layer until serving.

Final Thoughts

Panda Express Orange Chicken is an easy yet delicious dish that brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table. You can customize it by adjusting sweetness or spice levels according to your preferences. Try this recipe today for a delightful homemade meal that everyone will love!