Panda Express Orange Chicken

Crispy homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. This recipe features boneless chicken breast, deep-fried to perfection and coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce you can make from scratch. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this Orange Chicken is sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, it’s not too spicy, making it a great choice for all ages!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet and tangy flavors in the orange sauce will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or veggies; this dish pairs well with many sides.
• Family-Friendly: Not too spicy and packed with flavor, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up your delicious Panda Express Orange Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or Deep Fryer
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Deep Fryer: Essential for achieving that crispy texture on the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients seamlessly when preparing the sauce.
• Mixing Bowls: Necessary for marinating chicken and mixing dry ingredients.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Perfect for safely handling hot chicken while frying.

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

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, pepper, sunflower oil, cornstarch, and flour until smooth. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well-coated.

Step 2: Heat Oil for Frying

In a skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces completely.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is hot enough (around 350°F), carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove them using tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, zested ginger root, and orange juice concentrate. Stir continuously until it comes to a simmer.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly until it thickens.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, add the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan. Toss them gently until they are fully coated in that delicious orange sauce.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil and rice apple vinegar if desired. Serve your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken hot over rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Serving Panda Express Orange Chicken can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its delicious flavor.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – A fragrant choice that complements the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice – Adds texture and flavor, making for a heartier meal.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli – A crunchy green side that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Sauteed Snow Peas – Fresh and crisp, these add a nice contrast to the dish.

Garnishes

• Green Onions – Chopped green onions provide a burst of freshness when sprinkled on top.
• Sesame Seeds – Toasted sesame seeds offer a nutty flavor and appealing presentation.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein – Soft noodles tossed in a savory sauce make for an excellent pairing with orange chicken.
• Chow Mein – Crunchy noodles add delightful texture and complement the dish’s flavors.

How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken

To make your Panda Express Orange Chicken as authentic as possible, consider these helpful tips for achieving perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly.
• Double Fry the Chicken – For extra crispiness, fry the chicken twice. This technique ensures it remains crunchy even after adding the sauce.
• Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer more heat, add extra crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Let Sauce Thicken Properly – Be patient while cooking the sauce. Allowing it to thicken will give it that signature sticky texture.
• Marinate Chicken Briefly – Marinating your chicken in soy sauce for about 15 minutes before frying can infuse it with more flavor.
• Serve Immediately – For the best experience, serve your orange chicken right after cooking while it’s hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Panda Express Orange Chicken enhances its flavors and rounds out your meal. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Fried Rice – A classic Chinese side dish packed with vegetables that complements the chicken well.
2. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat add a delightful crunch to your meal.
3. Spring Rolls – Light and fresh, these rolls can offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of orange chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad – A tangy cucumber salad provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of savory chicken.
5. Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables pair nicely with orange chicken’s bold flavors.
6. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and depth, enhancing your overall dining experience.
7. Chow Mein Noodles – These stir-fried noodles bring an additional layer of flavor to accompany your main dish.
8. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly grilled asparagus offers an elegant touch while balancing out the meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using the wrong chicken parts: Always use boneless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. Avoid using skin-on or bone-in pieces, as they won’t fry properly.

• Neglecting the cornstarch coating: The cornstarch is essential for achieving that crispy texture. Ensure every piece of chicken is evenly coated before frying.

• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the orange sauce too long can lead to a burnt flavor. Monitor it closely and remove it from heat once it thickens slightly.

• Skipping the marinating step: Letting the chicken marinate enhances flavor. Even 15 minutes in a simple mixture of salt, pepper, and egg makes a difference.

• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. Customize it to suit your taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Place cooled orange chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label it with the date for reference.

Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method keeps it crispy.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and stir-fry until hot. This helps restore some crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken spicy?

You can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even sriracha to the orange sauce during cooking to increase spice levels according to your preference.

What can I serve with Panda Express Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or sautéed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside chow mein or lo mein noodles for an authentic feel.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute boneless pork or tofu for a different protein option that still works well with the orange sauce.

Is Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How long does it take to make Panda Express Orange Chicken?

The total time is about 40 minutes—20 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking—making it quick and easy for dinner!

Final Thoughts

Panda Express Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the sweetness and spice levels according to your liking. Whether you serve it over rice or toss in some veggies, this homemade version captures that beloved restaurant taste perfectly. Give it a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Panda Express Orange Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crispy homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that transforms your kitchen into an Asian culinary haven. This easy-to-follow recipe features tender, boneless chicken pieces deep-fried to a golden crisp and coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce made from scratch. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this Orange Chicken is not too spicy, making it an excellent choice for eaters of all ages. Serve it over rice or noodles, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your household. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, creating restaurant-quality Orange Chicken at home has never been easier.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp orange juice concentrate

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together egg, salt, pepper, sunflower oil, cornstarch, and flour until smooth. Add chicken to coat.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot (about 350°F). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
3. For the sauce, combine vinegar, sugar, water, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, and orange juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until simmering.
4. Mix cornstarch with cold water; add to the sauce to thicken while stirring constantly.
5. Toss fried chicken in the thickened sauce until fully coated. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg