Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Orange Chicken is one of the most iconic dishes at Panda Express, offering a delicious balance of crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. It’s a comfort food favorite for many, easily found in Chinese-American restaurants but also surprisingly easy to replicate at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create your own Panda Express-style Orange Chicken, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing a large batch for a family gathering, this recipe will make sure you get that authentic taste you love.

This recipe will guide you through key ingredients, detailed steps for preparation, tips for achieving the perfect crispy coating, as well as the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers. Let’s dive in and make this family-friendly dish together!

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What is Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish that features crispy fried chicken pieces drenched in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. Unlike traditional Chinese orange chicken recipes, which are typically stir-fried, the Panda Express version is known for its crispy battered chicken that’s coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce. It’s neither too sweet nor overly spicy, with a delightful balance of citrusy brightness and subtle heat from chili flakes. The orange zest and juice provide a refreshing kick that complements the savory-sweet sauce, making it an irresistible treat.

Key Ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken

The key to making authentic Panda Express Orange Chicken lies in the balance of ingredients used for both the chicken coating and the sauce. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components for this recipe:

For the Chicken Coating:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: The chicken is the star of this dish. Boneless thighs are preferred for their tenderness, but breasts can be substituted.
• Flour and Cornstarch: These form the dry coating to achieve that crispy texture. Cornstarch gives the chicken a lighter and crunchier coating compared to using flour alone.
• Egg: Used to bind the flour and cornstarch together, creating a smooth batter.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken batter before frying, ensuring a balanced flavor.

For the Orange Sauce:

• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is preferred for the best flavor, but store-bought orange juice concentrate can also work in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce: This adds umami and saltiness to the sauce, which balances the sweetness of the sugar.
• Sugar: To achieve that characteristic sweet flavor.
• Vinegar (Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar): Adds a tangy kick that helps balance out the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the sauce.
• Garlic and Ginger: Both fresh and aromatic, they enhance the sauce with layers of flavor.
• Chili Flakes or Chili Paste: A small amount provides just the right amount of heat to complement the sweetness of the sauce.

Optional:

• Orange Zest: For an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Sesame Oil: A little bit adds depth to the sauce with its nutty flavor.

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s break down the step-by-step process to create the perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken. Follow these directions carefully to achieve that signature crispy coating and flavorful orange sauce.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting your boneless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized chunks, approximately 1-inch pieces. Make sure they’re uniform to ensure even cooking.
2. Season: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Breading: Set up two bowls. In the first bowl, beat two eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, mix together the flour and cornstarch.
4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour-cornstarch mix, pressing lightly to coat each piece evenly.

Step 2: Frying the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of batter into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.
2. Fry the Chicken: Fry the coated chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Making the Orange Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
2. Cook the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too runny, you can dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in a little water and stir it into the sauce to thicken. Simmer for another minute.
4. Add the Heat: Stir in the chili flakes or chili paste to add a touch of spice. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Step 4: Tossing the Chicken in the Sauce

1. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready and thickened, add the crispy chicken pieces into the sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece thoroughly.
2. Finish: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring each piece is evenly covered and heated through.

Recipe Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: Double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the egg wash and then the flour-cornstarch mixture for an even thicker, crunchier crust.
• Make it Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Orange Flavor Boost: Adding fresh orange zest to the sauce can elevate the citrus flavor, giving it that extra burst of brightness.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether. Conversely, increase the chili for more heat.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container. For the sauce, store it separately in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: The best way to reheat leftover orange chicken is to steam it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until hot. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crispy coating may soften.

Serving Suggestions and Tips for Success

• Serve with Rice: Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even fried rice. The rice soaks up the extra sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers on the side to complement the richness of the dish and add color.
• Perfect for Parties: This dish is an excellent choice for gatherings and potlucks. You can serve it as an appetizer or a main dish with sides like spring rolls, dumplings, or a simple salad.

Conclusion

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a satisfying dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a tangy, sweet orange sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, special occasion, or just because, this recipe provides all the essential steps to make your homemade version just as delicious as the restaurant favorite. By following the easy steps for preparing the chicken, making the sauce, and serving it with your favorite sides, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress.

With a few helpful tips, you can customize the flavors to your liking and even make it ahead of time for easier meal prep. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stovetop, and enjoy the taste of homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken right at home!