Panda Express Orange Chicken

Crispy homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that captures the essence of classic American-Chinese cuisine. This dish features tender pieces of chicken coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a deliciously sweet and tangy orange sauce, making it perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or whenever you crave something special. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll enjoy the flavors reminiscent of your favorite takeout right in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and can be prepared quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet and tangy sauce brings out the best in the chicken, making every bite a treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish suits all settings.
• Customizable Ingredients: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs or tweak the spices to match your taste.
• Family-Friendly: It’s not too spicy, making it ideal for kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare your Panda Express Orange Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like the batter and sauces without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly for sauces, ensuring even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Panda Express Orange Chicken:

For the Chicken Breading

• 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 Orange 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 boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, whisk together one egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper. Add cornstarch and flour gradually while mixing until you get a thick batter.

Step 2: Heat Oil for Frying

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil for deep frying over medium-high heat. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle upon contact.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Coat each piece of chicken in the batter before carefully placing them in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce

In another bowl, combine white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, zested ginger root, orange juice concentrate, cornstarch, sesame oil, and rice apple vinegar. Mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

In a large skillet over low heat, add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce. Stir gently until all pieces are coated evenly in this delicious mixture. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice pairs perfectly with the tangy orange sauce, soaking up all the flavors.

With Fried Rice

• Serve alongside vegetable fried rice for a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, spoon the orange chicken into crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Place the chicken over cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a filling meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side for extra color and nutrition.

As Part of a Chinese Feast

• Incorporate it into a larger spread with dumplings and spring rolls for an authentic experience.

How to Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken

Perfecting your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken can elevate your cooking skills. Here are some essential tips.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in soy sauce and spices enhances flavor depth.
• Use Hot Oil: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this creates a crispy texture without excess oiliness.
• Double Fry: For extra crunch, fry the chicken twice, allowing it to rest between each frying session.
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Modify sugar levels in the sauce to suit your taste preference; add more for sweetness or less for tanginess.
• Add Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh garlic and ginger at the end of cooking for heightened flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your orange chicken right after cooking for optimal crispiness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Panda Express Orange Chicken

To create a well-rounded meal with Panda Express Orange Chicken, consider these fantastic side dishes. They complement the main dish beautifully.

1. Vegetable Fried Rice
   A colorful mix of vegetables tossed with fragrant rice makes for an ideal pairing.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the chicken.

3. Crispy Spring Rolls
   These savory rolls filled with vegetables are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce alongside your chicken.

4. Egg Drop Soup
   A warm bowl of egg drop soup provides comfort and complements the flavors of your main dish nicely.

5. Garlic Noodles
   Tossed in garlic butter, these noodles add richness that pairs well with orange chicken’s tanginess.

6. Asian Slaw
   A fresh slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil offers a crunchy contrast to the chicken’s texture.

7. Miso Soup
   This light soup brings umami flavors that enhance your meal experience without overpowering it.

8. Fried Tofu Bites
   Crispy tofu serves as a great vegetarian option that absorbs flavors while adding protein to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Orange Chicken at home can be simple, but it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the marination: Not letting the chicken marinate can lead to bland flavors. Marinate your chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and spices for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy pieces. Fry in smaller batches for a perfect crispy texture.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using cheap soy sauce or vinegar can affect the taste. Always opt for high-quality ingredients for better flavor.
• Not monitoring frying time: Overcooking or undercooking the chicken can ruin your dish. Keep an eye on the chicken while frying to achieve that golden-brown color.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If your sauce is too watery, it won’t cling well to the chicken. Adjust with cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil and stir-fry chicken until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Panda Express Orange Chicken unique?

Panda Express Orange Chicken is known for its sweet and tangy orange sauce that balances savory flavors perfectly, creating an irresistible dish.

Can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut liquid aminos instead of regular soy sauce to make a gluten-free version of this recipe.

How spicy is Panda Express Orange Chicken?

The dish typically has mild spice due to crushed red pepper flakes, which you can adjust according to your preference by adding more or less.

What should I serve with Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Pair it with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or chow mein for a complete meal that captures the essence of Asian cuisine.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless turkey or even beef if you prefer a different protein while maintaining a similar flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also customizable according to your taste preferences. Experiment with different proteins and side dishes to create your own perfect meal. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends!