There’s something truly special about a dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a crispy texture, and that’s exactly what you get with Panda Express Orange Chicken. This recipe brings the beloved fast-food classic right into your kitchen, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress guests, this Orange Chicken is sure to be a hit!
What makes this Panda Express Orange Chicken even better is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up a batch that rivals the restaurant version. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve alongside rice, noodles, or your favorite veggies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
– Family favorite: The delightful combination of sweet orange sauce and crispy chicken will have everyone asking for seconds.
– Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration, this dish fits right in.
– Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
– Leftover friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable!
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)
Variations
One of the best things about cooking at home is the flexibility to make recipes your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:
– Swap the protein: Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option that’s equally delicious.
– Add some crunch: Toss in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for added texture and nutrition.
– Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers.
– Change up the sauce: Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or lime for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper. Once combined, add in the chicken pieces and stir until they are well coated.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. This mixture will give your chicken that delightful crunch we all love. Take each piece of marinated chicken from the egg mixture and dredge it in the cornstarch-flour mix until each piece is fully coated. Set aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce (or coconut liquid aminos), crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, orange juice concentrate (or fresh orange juice), sesame oil, and rice apple vinegar. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into your simmering sauce while whisking continuously. This step is crucial as it will thicken your sauce to perfection. Continue simmering for another minute until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
In a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat, add enough oil for frying—about two inches deep should do it. Once hot (a drop of water should sizzle when it hits), carefully place several pieces of coated chicken into the oil without overcrowding them. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides—about four to five minutes per batch—then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once all your chicken is fried up deliciously crisp, return them to the pan with your prepared sauce over low heat. Gently toss to coat every piece thoroughly in that irresistible orange glaze.
And there you have it! Serve your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal that’s both comforting and satisfying!
Pro Tips for Making Panda Express Orange Chicken
Making your own version of Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor.
– Use cold oil for frying: Starting with cold oil helps the chicken batter stick better and results in a crispier coating. This method keeps the oil temperature consistent, preventing sogginess.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. It’s best to fry in batches to achieve that golden-brown perfection.
– Add extra orange zest: For a more intense orange flavor, consider adding additional zest from an orange. It enhances the aromatic qualities of the sauce and adds depth to each bite.
– Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer your sauce on the sweeter side, feel free to increase the amount of cane sugar slightly. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
– Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from making them soggy and keeps them crispy longer.
How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken
Serving Panda Express Orange Chicken is where the fun begins! This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a hit at any gathering. You can present it beautifully by adding a few garnishes and pairing it with delightful sides.
Garnishes
– Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
– Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds gives a lovely crunch and an appealing look that elevates your presentation.
Side Dishes
– Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy sauce.
– Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas brings freshness and crunch alongside your chicken.
– Fried rice: For an extra kick of flavor, serve with fried rice mixed with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs.
– Spring rolls: These crispy appetizers are a great way to start off your meal or serve as a side for added variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping makes life easier! You can prepare this dish ahead of time or store leftovers for future meals without losing its deliciousness.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its texture.
– Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat only what you plan to eat.
Freezing
– To freeze, place cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
– The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label it with the date so you can keep track!
Reheating
– For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. This method preserves crispiness.
– Alternatively, you can use the microwave but expect some loss of texture; heat in short intervals until warm throughout.
FAQs
You may have some questions about making or storing Panda Express Orange Chicken. Here are some common inquiries answered!
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless chicken breasts are commonly used, thighs also work well due to their tender texture and flavor. Choose whichever cut you prefer!
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy this yummy dish!
Can I make this dish spicy?
If you’re looking for some heat, simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some sriracha sauce to the orange sauce mixture for an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try making this delicious Panda Express Orange Chicken at home! With its crispy coating and luscious orange sauce, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients and enjoy every moment spent cooking this delightful dish—happy cooking!
Panda Express Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper. Add in the chicken pieces and stir until well coated.
- In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the cornstarch-flour mix until fully coated. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger zest, orange juice concentrate, sesame oil, and rice apple vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer until the sugar dissolves.
- Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water until smooth. Slowly pour this into your simmering sauce while whisking continuously. Simmer for another minute until thickened.
- In a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat, add enough oil for frying. Once hot, carefully place several pieces of coated chicken into the oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about four to five minutes per batch.
- Once all chicken is fried, return them to the pan with the prepared sauce over low heat. Gently toss to coat every piece thoroughly.
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