Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

Whenever I find myself craving something flavorful and satisfying, I think of Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken. This delicious dish takes me back to those bustling evenings spent enjoying a quick meal with friends. The moment that crispy, golden-brown chicken hits your plate, it’s simply irresistible. With a hint of sweetness and a kick of spice, this recipe transforms a casual dinner into an exciting culinary experience. I remember the first time I attempted to recreate this dish at home, eager to capture that iconic taste. It became an instant favorite in my household!

What’s In This Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

The key to a successful Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each component plays a significant role in balancing the flavors and textures of the dish. The combination of the crispy chicken, the sweet orange sauce, and the subtle heat from the spices creates a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist.

• 1/4 cup white vinegar – This adds a tangy flavor to the sauce, balancing the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup sugar – Essential for that sweet kick that makes the orange chicken so addictive.
• 2 tablespoons water – Helps in mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch – Acts as a thickener for the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract – Enhances the orange flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
• Orange zest (if desired) – Adds a fresh citrus aroma.
• 1 egg – Used for the coating, which helps the flour and cornstarch stick to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Additional seasoning for the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper – Introduces a subtle heat.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus additional for frying) – Vital for frying and adds richness.
• 1 cup cornstarch – Creates a crispy texture when frying the chicken.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Complements the cornstarch in creating a crunchy coating.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces) – The main protein, juicy and tender.
• Vegetable oil (for frying) – Needed for deep frying to achieve that perfect crisp.
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil – Adds a nutty flavor to the final dish.
• 4 to 6 dried Tianjin peppers – Brings heat and a unique flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons chili flakes – For an extra kick.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger – Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.

Instructions for Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

Making Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken is a fun and rewarding process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to create this flavorful dish.

1. Start by preparing the orange chicken sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together white vinegar, sugar, water, soy sauce, cornstarch, orange extract, and salt. Set this mixture aside as it will be a star player in your dish.

2. Next, let’s set up a dredging station for the chicken. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, white pepper, and vegetable oil. In another bowl, combine cornstarch and flour. This two-step coating process will give your chicken that incredible crunch!

3. Now, take the chicken pieces and dip them into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Shake off any excess egg, and then dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture. Press down lightly so that the coating sticks well to each piece.

4. In a deep fryer or a Dutch oven, heat about 4 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. It’s essential to maintain this temperature to achieve that perfect crispness.

5. Working in small batches, gently drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the breading turns golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and transfer it to a rack to drain excess oil.

6. While the chicken is frying, let’s prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the dried Tianjin peppers and cook them for about 1 minute until they’re lightly toasted.

7. Add the chili flakes to the skillet and cook for about another minute until fragrant. Then toss in the minced garlic and minced ginger, cooking until aromatic, about 1 minute.

8. Pour in the reserved orange chicken sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens, which usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes.

9. Finally, add the fried chicken into the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in that luscious orange sauce. Serve immediately and watch everyone enjoy!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to change things up with Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken, here are some great ideas to consider:

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken separately from the sauce. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in some stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to add color and nutrition.
• Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit the Tianjin peppers entirely.
• Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prepping. Cook a larger batch and portion it out for quick lunches during the week.

How to Serve Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

When it comes to serving Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken, the presentation can elevate your dish to another level. Here are some delicious ideas:

• On a Bed of Rice: Serve the orange chicken over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or fried rice for a comforting meal.
• With Steamed Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli or green beans for a colorful and nutritious plate.
• As an Appetizer: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve as an appetizer with toothpicks for fun gatherings or parties.
• Garnish with Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added freshness and crunch.
• For Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for celebrations like Chinese New Year or family gatherings.
• With a Side of Soy Sauce: Offer soy sauce or extra chili sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy texture with a sweet and spicy flavor profile that many love. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. I encourage you to try this recipe at home. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with those you love.

Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken is bursting with flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce make this dish an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Make it tonight for a delightful treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon orange extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• orange zest orange zest if desired
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus additional for frying
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
• vegetable oil vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 to 6 dried tianjin peppers
• 2 teaspoons chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger

Equipment

• Whisk
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Start by preparing the orange chicken sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together white vinegar, sugar, water, soy sauce, cornstarch, orange extract, and salt. Set this mixture aside as it will be a star player in your dish.
2. Next, let’s set up a dredging station for the chicken. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, white pepper, and vegetable oil. In another bowl, combine cornstarch and flour. This two-step coating process will give your chicken that incredible crunch!
3. Now, take the chicken pieces and dip them into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Shake off any excess egg, and then dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture. Press down lightly so that the coating sticks well to each piece.
4. In a deep fryer or a Dutch oven, heat about 4 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. It's essential to maintain this temperature to achieve that perfect crispness.
5. Working in small batches, gently drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the breading turns golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and transfer it to a rack to drain excess oil.
6. While the chicken is frying, let’s prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the dried Tianjin peppers and cook them for about 1 minute until they’re lightly toasted.
7. Add the chili flakes to the skillet and cook for about another minute until fragrant. Then toss in the minced garlic and minced ginger, cooking until aromatic, about 1 minute.
8. Pour in the reserved orange chicken sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens, which usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes.
9. Finally, add the fried chicken into the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in that luscious orange sauce. Serve immediately and watch everyone enjoy!

Notes

Tip: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.