Name: Panda Express Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 egg egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground white pepper; ½ cup cornstarch; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup water; 1½ tablespoons vegetable oil; vegetable oil for frying; 1 cup orange juice; ¼ cup soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper; ½ cup vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; ½ cup sugar; ½ teaspoon chili flakes in oil; ½ teaspoon sesame oil

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There’s something truly special about indulging in Panda Express Orange Chicken after a long day. I remember the first time I tried it—the crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce instantly transported me to my favorite Chinese takeout joint. It was a comforting blend of flavors that made the world feel just a little brighter. Now, I’ve mastered this recipe in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
460 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Skillet

Why This Panda Express Orange Chicken Works

It’s All About the Flavor

The vibrant flavor profile is what truly sets Panda Express Orange Chicken apart. The combination of the sweet orange juice and the tangy soy sauce creates a balance that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that dances on your palate.

Perfectly Crispy Every Time

What I love most about this recipe is how the chicken turns out perfectly crispy. The batter clings beautifully to the chicken, giving it that satisfying crunch we all crave. You’ll find yourself sneaking bites straight from the frying pan because it’s just that good!

Easy to Make

Despite its gourmet appearance, Panda Express Orange Chicken is surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress.

Customizable to Your Liking

One of the best things about this recipe is that you can customize it to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add some chili flakes! Prefer it sweeter? Adjust the sugar to your liking. This dish can easily become your own signature creation.

Family-Friendly Delight

Panda Express Orange Chicken is sure to be a hit with the entire family. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Kids love the crispy chicken, and adults appreciate the complex flavors.

What Goes Into Panda Express Orange Chicken

When preparing Panda Express Orange Chicken, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients that complement each other. The key players in this dish include fresh chicken, orange juice for sweetness, and soy sauce for that savory depth. Together, these ingredients create a harmony of flavors that is simply irresistible.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these chicken thighs are perfect for frying, as they absorb flavors beautifully.
1 egg: This acts as a binder for the batter, helping it cling to the chicken for that crispy texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish, making every bite more satisfying.
1 teaspoon ground white pepper: Adds a subtle spiciness that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
½ cup cornstarch: Essential for creating a light, crispy batter that fries up beautifully.
1½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the batter and contributes to its delightful crunch.
¾ cup water: Helps to achieve the right consistency for the batter.
1½ tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds richness to the batter and is used for frying.
Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy exterior on the chicken.
1 cup orange juice: The star ingredient, adding sweetness and a citrusy zing that brightens the entire dish.
¼ cup soy sauce: Imparts a savory umami flavor that balances the sweetness of the orange juice.
1 teaspoon sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the sauce, making it more delicious.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warming spice that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
½ cup vinegar: Helps to balance the sweetness and adds a tangy kick.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a nice velvety texture.
½ cup sugar: Further sweetens the sauce, ensuring a delightful flavor.
½ teaspoon chili flakes in oil: Adds a hint of heat to the sauce for a well-rounded taste.
½ teaspoon sesame oil: Offers a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Making Panda Express Orange Chicken

Getting started on Panda Express Orange Chicken is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish at home. Trust me, you’ll be thrilled with the results!

First, cut the chicken thighs into small bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking. The tenderness of the chicken will be key to the dish’s overall enjoyment.
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the egg, salt, ground white pepper, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, water, and vegetable oil. Stir everything together until you achieve a smooth batter. This batter is what will give the chicken its amazing crunch when fried.
Now it’s time to coat the chicken. Place the cut pieces into the batter, stirring gently to ensure they are generously coated. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the batter adhere better during frying.
While the chicken is chilling, heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot. Make sure the oil is at least 4 inches deep for proper frying. Aim for a temperature of 350°F for the best frying results. A thermometer can be handy here!
Once the oil is ready, shake off any excess batter from the chicken pieces. Fry them in small batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are a light golden brown, which should take about 6 to 7 minutes. This batch cooking helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures each piece is crispy.
After frying, remove the chicken from the hot oil and place it on a wire rack set over a cookie sheet. This allows any excess oil to drip off, keeping your chicken crispy.
In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, ginger, ground white pepper, vinegar, cornstarch, sugar, chili flakes in oil, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. This sauce will bring everything together.
Pour the sauce into a large skillet or wok. Turn the heat up to medium high and let it cook until it thickens. Keep stirring to prevent sticking. The aroma of the sauce as it cooks will have you drooling!
Finally, add the fried chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to ensure each piece is generously coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute or two, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Things Worth Knowing

Watch the oil temperature: Maintaining the right frying temperature is crucial for achieving crispy chicken. Too low, and the batter will be soggy; too high, and it will burn.
Chill the batter: Letting the coated chicken sit in the refrigerator allows the batter to set, which helps create a thicker crust when frying.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and prevent steaming.
Keep an eye on the sauce: When cooking the sauce, stir frequently to ensure it thickens evenly without burning.

How to Switch It Up

There are many ways to add your personal touch to Panda Express Orange Chicken. Here are some tips to get you started!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to create a complete meal.
Make it spicy: Add extra chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick or toss in some sliced fresh jalapeños when cooking.
Try different proteins: Feel free to use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different take on this dish.
Experiment with citrus: Try substituting lemon or lime juice for a different flavor profile in the sauce.

Best Served With

Panda Express Orange Chicken is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some fantastic options:

Steamed Rice: The classic pairing! The fluffy rice soaks up the delicious sauce and balances the flavors perfectly.
Fried Rice: For a hearty meal, serve it alongside fried rice, loaded with vegetables and scrambled eggs.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds a fresh crunch to your plate.
Spring Rolls: These crispy, savory bites are a great appetizer to start your meal!
Asian Slaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw with a tangy dressing complements the richness of the chicken.
Side Salad: A light and crisp salad can provide a nice contrast to the warm chicken.
Occasions: Panda Express Orange Chicken is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or when you want to impress friends with a homemade feast!

FAQ

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. The chicken is typically made from boneless thighs, which are marinated and then fried to a crisp texture before being tossed in a zesty sauce made from orange juice, soy sauce, and various spices. This dish is known for its bold flavors and satisfying crunch.

Yes, you can make Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce (often labeled as tamari) and substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the batter. Additionally, ensure that any other packaged ingredients you use are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without gluten!

If you want to add some heat to your Panda Express Orange Chicken, try incorporating chili flakes or minced fresh chili peppers into the orange sauce. You can also add sriracha or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce to achieve your desired level of spiciness. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference to ensure you get the perfect kick!

Panda Express Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You could even serve it on a bed of noodles for a more filling meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider adding a light salad or some spring rolls as side dishes. These accompaniments help balance the bold flavors of the chicken and create a well-rounded dining experience!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and satisfy your cravings any time you desire. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciously crispy chicken coated in that irresistible orange sauce. You won’t regret it!