Panda Express Orange Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a sweet and savory Asian classic that has garnered a huge following across the globe. This delicious dish is a staple on the menu and often captures the hearts of many with its unique blend of flavors and textures. The crispy fried chicken, coated in a tangy orange sauce, creates an explosion of taste that is unforgettable. If you’ve ever experienced the joy of biting into a piece of this chicken, you know exactly how addictive it can be.
Crafting your version of Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is not only gratifying but also allows you to adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Imagine serving it to family and friends, sharing a meal that recalls memories of vibrant Asian cuisine. Moreover, preparing this dish doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. In this article, you will learn why this recipe is so loved, the preparation steps, and tips on serving it perfectly.
Now, let’s embark on this culinary adventure and discover the magic behind Panda Express Orange Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panda Express Orange Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience. Here are several reasons to fall in love with making it at home:
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of sweet, savory, and citrus from the orange sauce creates a delightful harmony.
2. Crispy Texture: Achieving a crispy outer layer on the chicken can be done using simple techniques, making every bite a crunchy sensation.
3. Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, taking less than an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
4. Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike enjoy this dish, making it excellent for family gatherings and entertaining guests.
5. Endless Customizations: You can adjust the heat and sweet levels according to your preference, making it versatile for different tastes.
6. One-Pan Wonder: The recipe can be easily adapted to minimize cleanup, especially if you prepare the stir-fry in a single pan.
With these benefits, it’s easy to see why Panda Express Orange Chicken has become a beloved recipe in many households!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Panda Express Orange Chicken will take approximately 45-60 minutes to prepare and cook. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
This timing can vary depending on your familiarity with cooking and the efficiency of your kitchen tools. However, this framework provides a reasonable estimate to help you plan.

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 large eggs (beaten)
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Green onions (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your own Panda Express Orange Chicken is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs and then coat thoroughly with the cornstarch mixture.
3. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat, enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
4. Fry the Chicken: Working in batches, carefully add coated chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In another saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
6. Thicken the Sauce: Add minced garlic and grated ginger, then simmer for about 5 minutes. If desired, thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the crispy chicken to the pan with the sauce and stir well to coat all pieces evenly.
8. Finish with Sesame Oil: Remove from heat, then drizzle in sesame oil for added flavor.
9. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
10. Enjoy: Pair your Panda Express Orange Chicken with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
These steps will help ensure that your homemade version of Panda Express Orange Chicken is a hit with everyone who tries it!

How to Serve

To create a memorable dining experience with your Panda Express Orange Chicken, consider the following tips for serving:
1. Presentation: Serve the chicken on a large platter for a family-style presentation. Drizzle some extra sauce over the top for appeal.
2. Accompaniments: Offer steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to complement the rich flavors. Adding fried veggie spring rolls can elevate the meal.
3. Portion Size: Serve generous portions but not overwhelming ones; this encourages your guests to enjoy other dishes too.
4. Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be a lovely addition. Consider a squeeze of lemon or lime for an extra zesty kick.
5. Beverage Pairing: Pair with iced tea or a light Asian lager to cool down the palate and enhance the meal experience.
Serving your Panda Express Orange Chicken thoughtfully will enhance the enjoyment and make for a delightful culinary moment. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this incredible dish, and remember that food is about love and connection.

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice instead of bottled varieties. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the overall taste of your Orange Chicken.
– Monitor the Oil Temperature: Ensure that the oil is at the right temperature before frying. Too hot and it may burn the chicken; too cool and it will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy.
– Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the dish immediately after cooking. This ensures that the chicken remains crispy and the sauce is fresh.
– Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or serving it with a chili garlic sauce on the side.
– Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd, don’t hesitate to double the recipe. Just be mindful of frying in smaller batches to maintain oil temperature.

Recipe Variation

Explore different flavor profiles by trying these variations of Panda Express Orange Chicken:
1. Sweet and Sour Twist: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the sauce for a sweet and sour blend reminiscent of classic Chinese American cuisine.
2. Spicy Orange Chicken: Add chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
3. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, pressing it to remove excess water and coating it in the same cornstarch mixture.
4. Mango Addition: Stir in fresh mango pieces into the sauce for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the orange flavor.
5. Sesame Orange Chicken: Enhance the sesame flavor by adding toasted sesame seeds not just as a garnish but also to the sauce itself.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Leftover Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a skillet until warmed through; this helps retain its crispiness.

Special Equipment

To make preparing Panda Express Orange Chicken easier, consider having these kitchen tools on hand:
– Deep frying pan or Dutch oven (for frying)
– Large mixing bowls (for coating and sauce preparation)
– Whisk (for mixing the eggs and sauce)
– Slotted spoon (for removing chicken from oil)
– Meat thermometer (to check oil temperature)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
How can I make the dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use cornstarch alone for coating the chicken.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
You can bake the chicken by coating it and placing it on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Is it necessary to thicken the sauce?
Thickening the sauce is optional. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can leave it as is or simply adjust the cornstarch slurry to your liking.
Can I serve this dish with something other than rice?
Absolutely! Panda Express Orange Chicken also pairs well with noodles, quinoa, or even a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful recipe that merges effortless preparation with mouthwatering flavors. This dish is not only satisfying but also evokes a sense of nostalgia for many, making it perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners. With its crispy chicken and vibrant orange sauce, your homemade version will surely impress. Remember, cooking is about creativity and adaptability, so feel free to experiment with flavors and serving styles. Enjoy this culinary journey and the joy that comes with sharing a delicious homemade meal!

Print