There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into crispy, tangy orange chicken, coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce. It’s no wonder Panda Express Orange Chicken is one of the most beloved dishes in American-Chinese cuisine. The good news? You can recreate this iconic dish right in your kitchen! With tender chicken bites, a perfect batter, and a rich, citrusy sauce, this recipe will have your family and friends raving about your cooking skills.

Why You’ll Love Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at Home

Cooking this dish at home not only lets you control the quality of ingredients but also saves you money while delivering the same bold flavors you love. Plus, the process is easier than you think! Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this homemade version is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this dish, gather the following tools:

• Wok or pot: For deep-frying the chicken.
• Medium-large pot: To prepare the orange sauce and coat the chicken.
• Slotted spoon: To safely remove fried chicken pieces from the oil.
• Large bowl: For preparing and mixing the batter.

Ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken

Chicken and Batter

• 2 lbs chicken thighs (or chicken breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces

Wet Batter

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

Breading

• ¾ cup cornstarch
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (heaping)

Orange Sauce

• ½ cup white distilled vinegar
• ½ cup cane sugar
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• ½ teaspoon zested ginger root, peeled
• 1 tablespoon orange juice concentrate
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice wine (or apple cider vinegar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken thighs or breasts into 1-inch pieces.
2. Preheat about 2 inches of oil in a wok or pot over medium-high heat.

2. Make the Wet Batter and Breading

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper to create the wet batter.
2. In another bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour for the breading.

3. Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each piece of chicken into the wet batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Roll the chicken in the flour mixture until fully covered.

4. Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the preheated oil.
2. Fry until golden brown and crispy, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and transfer it to a large bowl lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

5. Prepare the Orange Sauce

1. In a medium-large pot, combine all sauce ingredients: white vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, chili flakes, crushed garlic, ginger zest, orange juice concentrate, cornstarch, sesame oil, and rice wine.
2. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Coat the Chicken in Sauce

1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the pot of orange sauce.
2. Toss gently until the chicken is evenly coated.

7. Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the coated orange chicken to a serving dish.
2. Pair it with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Orange Chicken

• Cut Chicken Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Double-Fry for Extra Crunch: For even crispier chicken, fry it a second time after the first batch cools slightly.
• Adjust the Heat: Increase or decrease the chili flakes based on your spice preference.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and orange zest enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	430
Protein	30g
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	38g
Sugar	20g
Sodium	820mg

FAQs About Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well and are leaner than thighs. Just ensure not to overcook them to keep the meat tender.

2. What can I substitute for orange juice concentrate?
You can use freshly squeezed orange juice for a similar flavor, but the concentrate gives a more intense citrus taste.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Coat the chicken as instructed, then bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce, cool it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before tossing with the chicken.

6. What other vegetables can I add?
Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas make great additions to this dish for added color and nutrition.

Why You Should Try This Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home allows you to recreate a restaurant favorite with fresh ingredients and your own personal touch. The crispy fried chicken and tangy orange sauce strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making this dish a guaranteed hit at your dinner table. Plus, the flexibility to adjust flavors and add veggies ensures a meal that’s customized just for you.

Gather Your Ingredients and Get Cooking!
Bring the bold flavors of Panda Express to your kitchen with this easy and delicious orange chicken recipe. Impress your family and friends, and savor every bite of this irresistible homemade dish

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