Panda Express orange chicken has been a takeout staple for years, and I’ve always wondered if I could recreate that irresistible sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor at home. I remember my first bite of the original years ago – that perfectly crispy chicken coated in a glossy, vibrant orange sauce was pure magic! It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds sing. This homemade Panda Express orange chicken recipe finally cracks the code, bringing that beloved taste directly to your kitchen. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple Panda Express orange chicken recipe that rivals the original. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Panda Express Orange Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with this easy Panda Express orange chicken recipe! It’s the perfect way to satisfy your takeout cravings without leaving the house.

• Incredibly Crispy Chicken: We get that signature crunch that holds up perfectly to the sauce.
• Authentic Flavor Profile: This homemade Panda Express orange chicken recipe nails the sweet, tangy, and savory taste you adore.
• Quick and Easy Prep: Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple Panda Express orange chicken comes together faster than you think.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
• Better Than Takeout: You control the ingredients and freshness, making this the best Panda Express orange chicken recipe.
• Perfect for Family Meals: Everyone loves this Panda Express chicken recipe, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Economical Choice: Making it at home is significantly cheaper than ordering from the restaurant.

Ingredients for Authentic Panda Express Orange Chicken

Gather these ingredients to make the best Panda Express orange chicken recipe right at home. This list ensures you have everything needed for that signature sweet and tangy flavor.

• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces – Thighs stay juicy and tender, perfect for this Panda Express chicken recipe.
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for our crispy coating.
• ½ cup cornstarch – This is key for achieving that extra-crispy texture on the chicken, making it like the restaurant version.
• ½ tablespoon salt – For seasoning the coating.
• ½ teaspoon pepper – Adds a little warmth.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the coating ingredients.
• 1¼ cups chilled sparkling water – Using cold sparkling water creates a lighter, crispier batter for your homemade Panda Express orange chicken.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a subtle nutty depth to the batter.
• Oil for deep frying (like vegetable or canola oil) – You’ll need enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
• 1 tablespoon canola oil – For sautéing the aromatics in the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Provides a hint of heat to balance the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Essential for that savory base.
• 1½ teaspoons minced fresh ginger – Adds a bright, zesty kick.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – For sweetness in the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar – Adds a deeper caramel note.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Crucial for the signature tangy flavor of Panda Express orange chicken sauce.
• 2 tablespoons orange juice – Freshly squeezed is best for vibrant flavor.
• 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce – For umami and saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest – Intensifies the orange flavor in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon water – To help create the sauce slurry.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for slurry) – This thickens the sauce to that perfect glossy consistency.

Preparing the Chicken

First, let’s get our chicken ready for that signature crunch. In a large bowl, whisk together the 1½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, ½ tablespoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Then, stir in the 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1¼ cups chilled sparkling water until you have a smooth, thick batter, almost like pancake batter. Add your 1-inch chicken thigh pieces to this batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes; this helps the batter adhere better for a crispier fry when you make this homemade Panda Express orange chicken.

Frying the Chicken

Now for the magic that makes this Panda Express orange chicken so satisfyingly crispy! Heat about ½ to 1 inch of neutral oil, like vegetable or canola, in a wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the battered chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan – this is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness. Fry each batch for about 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step ensures your Panda Express chicken recipes are restaurant-quality.

Making the Orange Sauce

While the chicken drains, let’s whip up the star of the show – that irresistible Panda Express orange chicken sauce! In a clean large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and 1½ teaspoons minced fresh ginger. Sauté for just 30–60 seconds until wonderfully fragrant. Now, pour in the sauce ingredients: 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons orange juice, 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon grated orange zest. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. For more information on achieving balanced flavors in sauces, check out this guide on homemade tomato sauce, which highlights the importance of ingredient ratios.

Combining and Finishing

The final steps to bringing your authentic Panda Express orange chicken to life are simple and rewarding. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch to create a smooth slurry. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a glossy, syrupy consistency, which should only take about 1–2 minutes. Once thickened, add your perfectly fried chicken pieces directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently until each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in that delicious orange glaze. Serve this amazing copycat Panda Express orange chicken immediately over hot cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if you like. You might also enjoy serving this with spaghetti with garlic and oil for a simple yet satisfying side.

Pro Tips for the Best Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken

Want to elevate your homemade Panda Express orange chicken? These little tricks will ensure your dish is restaurant-worthy every single time. They’re simple but make a big difference in achieving that perfect taste and texture.

• Use Chicken Thighs: They are more forgiving and stay juicier than breasts, crucial for that authentic Panda Express chicken recipe flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Letting the battered chicken rest in the fridge for 30 minutes helps the coating stick better, ensuring maximum crispiness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil consistently at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly cooked, golden-brown chicken without it getting greasy. Understanding the science behind frying can help, as detailed in this deep-frying guide.
• Sauce Slurry is Key: Whisking the cornstarch and water separately before adding it to the sauce guarantees a smooth, glossy glaze, not lumpy.

What’s the secret to perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken?

The secret to achieving that signature crunch in your Panda Express orange chicken is twofold: a properly chilled, thick batter and maintaining the correct oil temperature during frying. This ensures the chicken gets crispy without getting greasy.

Can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and batter ahead of time, but for the best crispy texture, it’s ideal to fry the chicken and toss it with the sauce just before serving. The sauce can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. For other make-ahead meal ideas, consider pappardelle with beef ragu.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Panda Express Orange Chicken?

A common pitfall is overcrowding the fryer, which lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. Also, be sure to whisk the cornstarch slurry thoroughly to avoid lumps in your sauce for this copycat Panda Express orange chicken.

Best Ways to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

This amazing homemade Panda Express orange chicken recipe is incredibly versatile! While it’s a star on its own, it pairs beautifully with classic sides. For a truly authentic experience, serve it hot over fluffy white rice. I also love to serve it alongside steamed broccoli or snap peas to add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the sweet and tangy chicken. Another fantastic pairing for this Panda Express chicken recipe is fried rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal that rivals any takeout order. Don’t forget a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch!

Nutrition Facts for Panda Express Orange Chicken

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious homemade Panda Express orange chicken recipe. Keep in mind that exact values can vary based on portion size and how much sauce you use.

• Calories: Estimates vary based on portion size and preparation
• Fat: Estimates vary
• Saturated Fat: Estimates vary
• Unsaturated Fat: Estimates vary
• Trans Fat: Estimates vary
• Protein: Estimates vary
• Carbohydrates: Estimates vary
• Fiber: Estimates vary
• Sugar: Estimates vary
• Sodium: Estimates vary

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For general nutritional information on common ingredients, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central database.

How to Store and Reheat Panda Express Orange Chicken

Don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste! Properly storing and reheating your homemade Panda Express orange chicken will ensure it tastes almost as good as the first time. Once the chicken has cooled down completely – this is important to prevent condensation and sogginess – transfer it to an airtight container. You can store your Panda Express orange chicken at home in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Place cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and they should keep well for up to 3 months. Remember to label them with the date!

When it’s time to reheat, the stovetop is your best friend for achieving the best texture. Gently warm the Panda Express orange chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, add a tablespoon or two of water or orange juice to loosen up the sauce. If you’re reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight first for more even heating. Microwaving is also an option for a quicker reheat, but be mindful that the chicken might lose some of its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panda Express Orange Chicken

What is Panda Express orange chicken?

Panda Express orange chicken is a popular American-Chinese dish featuring crispy, bite-sized pieces of fried chicken coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange-flavored sauce. It’s a signature menu item known for its addictive flavor profile, making it a favorite for many takeout lovers.

Can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken healthier?

Absolutely! To make this copycat Panda Express orange chicken recipe healthier, you can try baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying. You can also reduce the sugar content in the sauce or use a low-sodium soy sauce. Incorporating more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas into your serving also boosts the nutritional value. For other healthy meal ideas, explore mediterranean chickpea salad.

What makes the Panda Express orange chicken sauce so good?

The magic of the Panda Express orange chicken sauce lies in its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It uses a combination of orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugars, enhanced with aromatics like garlic and ginger, and thickened to a glossy perfection with a cornstarch slurry. This homemade Panda Express orange chicken recipe aims to replicate that irresistible taste.

Why is Panda Express orange chicken so popular?

Its popularity stems from its universally appealing flavor profile – that irresistible sweet and tangy glaze combined with crispy chicken is a winning combination. It’s a comfort food that hits all the right notes, offering a satisfying and familiar taste that many associate with convenient and delicious takeout. This easy Panda Express orange chicken recipe allows fans to enjoy that same experience at home.

Variations of Panda Express Orange Chicken You Can Try

While the classic recipe is amazing, there are so many fun ways to switch up your homemade Panda Express orange chicken! These variations let you tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs.

• Baked or Air-Fried Version: For a lighter take on this easy Panda Express orange chicken, skip the deep-frying! Toss the battered chicken with a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry at 380°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes until golden and cooked through. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, amp up the crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce or add a dash of sriracha for an extra layer of spice to your Panda Express chicken recipes.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. For a vegan version, ensure your batter and sauce ingredients are free from animal products (like using a vegan egg substitute and tamari instead of soy sauce if needed). This makes for a fantastic plant-based Panda Express orange chicken experience.
• Lemon-Orange Fusion: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice along with the orange juice in the sauce for a brighter, more complex citrus flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.

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