Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Table of Contents
As a busy mom, finding quick and tasty dinners for the family can be tough. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this Panda Express orange chicken recipe with you. It’s a delicious copycat of the famous Chinese restaurant dish, easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
This panda express orange chicken recipe offers all the flavors you love – crispy chicken in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. And the best part? It’s ready in just 40 minutes. It’s the perfect fix for your Chinese food cravings on busy weeknights. Get ready to impress your family with this restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Why This Copycat Recipe Will Become Your Family Favorite
Get ready to make your weeknight dinners better with this easy Panda Express orange chicken copycat recipe. It’s simple and won’t cost a lot. In just 30 minutes, you can make a tasty homemade version of this famous dish. Your family will love it.
Restaurant-Quality Results at Home
This recipe lets you make Panda Express‘ famous orange chicken at home. It’s all about the right mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Every bite will feel like you’re at your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Budget-Friendly Alternative
Ordering takeout can get expensive. But this homemade version is cheaper. You can make delicious orange chicken without spending a lot. It’s good for your taste buds and your wallet.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This recipe is super easy to make. It only takes 30 minutes to cook. It’s perfect for feeding a family or a casual gathering. This easy chicken recipe will satisfy your homemade chinese food cravings.
“After making this copycat recipe, I can barely tell the difference between the homemade orange chicken and the one I get from Panda Express. It’s an absolute game-changer!”
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
Making the perfect orange chicken at home needs careful ingredient selection. To get that Panda Express taste, you’ll need some key items from your Chinese cuisine ingredients collection.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: This cut of chicken is tender and juicy when fried.
- Flour and cornstarch: Together, they make the chicken’s coating crispy.
- Egg and sparkling water: These add a light and airy texture to the batter.
- Sesame oil and canola oil: Their blend gives depth of flavor and perfect frying results.
- Garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes: These add a real Chinese flavor to the dish.
- Sugar, brown sugar, orange juice, and orange zest: These sweet and tangy elements make the orange sauce irresistible.
- Rice vinegar and soy sauce: They balance the flavors and provide a savory background.
The quality and freshness of the orange chicken ingredients are key for great results at home. With the right mix of these essential components, you’ll make a delicious Panda Express-style orange chicken.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 1-1/2 pounds |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1-1/2 cups |
| Egg | 1 |
| Sparkling water | 1-1/4 cups |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Canola oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic, minced | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger, minced | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Light brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Orange juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Orange zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Rice vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
With these orange chicken ingredients and Chinese cuisine ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Panda Express-style orange chicken at home.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make perfect Panda Express-style orange chicken at home, you need some key tools and equipment. From basic needs to optional extras, the right tools can greatly improve your cooking. They also affect the taste and look of your dish.
Basic Equipment Requirements
- A large wok or Dutch oven for frying the chicken
- A reliable digital thermometer to monitor the oil temperature
- Mixing bowls for preparing the batter and coating the chicken
- A whisk for mixing the ingredients smoothly
- A slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the fried chicken
- Paper towels for draining the chicken and absorbing excess oil
- A sturdy cutting board for prepping the chicken
Optional Tools for Convenience
While the basic tools are a must, some optional items can make cooking easier:
- A dedicated deep fryer for maintaining a consistent oil temperature
- A high-quality chef’s knife for effortless chicken cutting
- A food processor or blender for quickly preparing the orange sauce
Temperature Control Essentials
Keeping the oil at the right temperature is key for crispy orange chicken. Try to keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F for the best results. If you don’t have a wok, a deep skillet or sturdy stockpot works too, as long as you can keep the temperature right.
Having the right tools and equipment is crucial for making great homemade Panda Express orange chicken. With these essentials, you’ll be on your way to making restaurant-quality flavors in your kitchen.
Perfect Chicken Preparation Techniques
To make your homemade Orange Chicken just right, start with the best chicken preparation techniques. Here are the key steps for restaurant-quality results:
- Cut the chicken into 1-1.5 inch pieces. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness and juiciness.
- Make a batter with flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, egg, and sparkling water. Cornstarch makes the coating super crispy.
- Coat the chicken evenly in the batter. Then, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step helps the batter stick to the chicken.
When it’s time to fry, heat oil to 350°F in a heavy pan or Dutch oven. Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until it’s golden and cooked. Make sure it reaches 165°F inside. After frying, drain the chicken on paper towels to get rid of extra oil.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs | 1-1/2 pounds |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1-1/2 cups |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Egg | 1 |
| Sparkling Water | 1/2 cup |
| Vegetable Oil for Frying | As needed |
By using these chicken preparation techniques, your homemade Orange Chicken will have a crispy outside and a juicy inside. It will taste just like the restaurant version.
Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to make Panda Express orange chicken at home? This guide will show you how to get restaurant-quality results. You’ll learn about coating, battering, frying, and making the sauce. It’s a recipe that will become a hit with your family.
Coating and Battering Process
Start by preparing the chicken. You’ll need 1½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, breasts, or tenderloins, cut into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with 1 large egg for the marinade.
For the coating, mix 1 cup of cornstarch, ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour, and a heaping ¼ teaspoon of baking soda. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they are fully coated. Refrigerate the coated chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the coating to set.
Frying Instructions
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. Fry the coated chicken in batches for 4 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep the oil temperature steady for even cooking and crispiness.
Sauce Making Tips
While the chicken is frying, make the orange sauce. In a saucepan, sauté minced garlic and ginger. Add ¼ cup of soy sauce, ½ cup of packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup of distilled white vinegar, ¼ cup of orange juice, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer and thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
Once the chicken is fried, toss it in the orange sauce until it’s evenly coated. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve the orange chicken recipe over steamed rice for a complete Panda Express-inspired meal.
Making the Signature Orange Sauce
The secret to Panda Express’ orange chicken is the tangy orange sauce. It’s sweet, slightly spicy, and perfect with crispy chicken. To make it at home, you need a few ingredients and a simple method.
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the aromatics become fragrant.
Next, pour in the orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canola oil | 1 tbsp |
| Minced garlic | 1 tbsp |
| Minced ginger | 2 tsp |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 tsp |
| Orange juice | 1/2 cup (120 ml) |
| Rice vinegar | 1/4 cup (60 ml) |
| Soy sauce | 4 tbsp |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup (55 g) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup (50 g) |
| Cornstarch and water slurry | 2 tbsp each |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp |
To thicken the sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce and continue cooking for another minute or two, until the sauce reaches a honey-like consistency. Finally, stir in a teaspoon of sesame oil to add a subtle nutty flavor.
The homemade orange chicken sauce is now ready to drizzle over your crispy fried chicken, elevating the dish to chinese sauce recipe perfection. Adjust the consistency with a splash of orange juice or water if needed. Enjoy the bold, tangy, and sweet flavors that make Panda Express’ signature orange chicken so irresistible.
Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Results
To get your homemade Panda Express orange chicken crispy, focus on the frying technique. Follow these expert tips for golden, crunchy, and delicious chicken every time.
Temperature Control
Keeping the oil between 350-375°F is key for a crispy exterior. Use a food thermometer to check the oil temperature. Adjust the heat to stay in the optimal range.
Battering Secrets
For an extra crispy batter, use cold sparkling water. The carbonation makes the coating light and airy. It crisps up well when fried. Batter the chicken just before frying for the best results.
Frying Best Practices
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Cook the chicken in batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Fry until it reaches 165°F. Then, let it drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Toss the fried chicken in orange sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.
By following these tips, you’ll get crispy chicken at home like a restaurant. Your Panda Express orange chicken will be a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When serving Panda Express-style orange chicken, you have endless options. This dish goes well with many sides to make a full meal. Let’s look at some tasty chinese food pairings to enhance your orange chicken experience.
Begin by placing your crispy orange chicken on a fluffy bed of white or brown rice. For extra texture and health, make some fried rice to go with it.
- Steamed white rice
- Brown rice
- Fried rice
To balance the orange chicken‘s richness, add steamed or stir-fried vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, and carrots are great orange chicken sides.
Want something different? Serve the orange chicken in lettuce wraps or in warm tortillas. Add scallions, sesame seeds, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra taste and looks.
“The possibilities for pairing orange chicken are endless – it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways.”
No matter how you serve it, this Panda Express copycat recipe will be a hit. Its mix of crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce makes it irresistible. It’s a meal that everyone will want more of.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying Panda Express-style orange chicken doesn’t have to stop when you’re done eating. You can keep the flavors alive for days with the right storage and reheating. Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This way, you can easily reheat and enjoy it again.
To reheat, use the oven or a skillet on the stovetop. The oven at 350°F (175°C) brings back the chicken’s crispy texture. A skillet over medium heat, with a bit of water or orange juice, also works well. But, avoid the microwave to keep the chicken crispy.
If you need a quick reheat, the microwave can work. Start with 2 minutes, stir halfway, and check the chicken’s temperature. Remember, gentle reheating is key to enjoying leftover orange chicken. Follow these tips to enjoy reheating chinese food whenever you want.
FAQ
What makes this Panda Express orange chicken recipe a family favorite?
This recipe makes delicious orange chicken at home, saving money on takeout. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and you can adjust the spice to your liking. It’s great for family meals or when you have guests over.
It uses common ingredients to make crispy chicken in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. This is just like what you’d get at Panda Express.
What are the key ingredients needed for this orange chicken recipe?
You’ll need boneless skinless chicken thighs, flour, cornstarch, egg, and sparkling water. Also, sesame oil, canola oil, red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger, sugar, and orange juice. Don’t forget orange zest, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Using fresh ingredients is key for the best taste.
What kitchen tools and equipment are required?
You’ll need a large wok or Dutch oven and a thermometer to check the oil temperature. You’ll also need mixing bowls, a whisk, a slotted spoon, and paper towels. A cutting board is also necessary.
For the best results, a deep fryer is recommended. It keeps the oil at the right temperature. If you don’t have a fryer, a deep skillet or stockpot works too.
How do you prepare the chicken for frying?
Cut the chicken into 1-1.5 inch pieces. Then, coat them in a batter of flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, egg, and sparkling water. Refrigerate the chicken for 30 minutes before frying for extra crispiness.
How do you make the signature orange sauce?
To make the orange sauce, sauté garlic and ginger in canola oil. Add red pepper flakes, sugar, brown sugar, orange juice, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry to get a honey-like consistency.
What are the expert tips for achieving crispy fried chicken?
Keep the oil temperature between 350-375°F. Use cold sparkling water in the batter for extra crispiness. Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying.
Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F. Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack over paper towels. Toss it in the sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.
How do you serve and store the Panda Express orange chicken?
Serve the orange chicken over steamed white rice, brown rice, or fried rice. Pair it with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with udon noodles, in lettuce wraps, or taco-style in tortillas.
Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, extra orange zest, or crushed red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.