Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that irresistible tangy-sweet crunch of orange chicken from your favorite Chinese takeout, you’re in for a treat! This Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe brings the magic right into your kitchen with a crispy chicken coating and a glossy, flavorful orange sauce that’s just bursting with zest and warmth. It’s a dish to share and savor — perfect for any day you want to feel like you’re dining out without leaving home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe demands just a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a special role in creating that iconic taste and texture. From the tender chicken pieces to the perfectly balanced sauce, every item adds depth and character.

• Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs offer juicier bites, but breasts work beautifully for a leaner option.
• Egg Mixture: The egg combined with oil, salt, and pepper helps the batter stick and seasons the chicken.
• Cornstarch and all-purpose flour: This duo ensures an extra crispy coating that stays delightfully crunchy.
• White distilled vinegar and cane sugar: Together, they create the signature tangy-sweet base of the sauce.
• Soy sauce (or coconut liquid aminos): Adds umami depth and a salty complexity to the glaze.
• Fresh garlic, ginger, and orange juice concentrate: These fresh ingredients infuse the sauce with aromatic brightness and zing.
• Sesame and rice wine vinegar: Just a touch to round out the flavor with nutty and acidic notes.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to tweak and tailor it to suit your dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Whether you want it extra spicy or gluten-free, there’s an easy swap here for you.

• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery twist.
• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends and use tamari in place of soy sauce.
• Chicken Alternatives: Try using shrimp or tofu for a different protein experience with the same delicious sauce.
• Sweetener Substitutes: Use honey or maple syrup instead of cane sugar for a different flavor note.

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized, roughly 1-inch pieces. This size is perfect for quick frying and gives you those delightful little nuggets that soak up every bit of sauce. Don’t forget to pat them dry with paper towels — dry chicken ensures the coating sticks better!

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Whisk together the egg, sunflower oil, salt, and pepper to make the egg mixture, which helps the dry breading cling perfectly. In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and all-purpose flour. Dip each chicken piece first in the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mix. Shake off any excess to avoid clumps while frying.

Step 3: Deep Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large pot or deep skillet to 350°F. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until they’re golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off extra oil—you want them crunchy but not greasy.

Step 4: Whip Up the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan, whisk together white vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, garlic, fresh ginger, orange juice concentrate, cornstarch, sesame oil, and rice wine. Bring to a boil, then simmer for a minute or two until it thickens into that glossy, sticky sauce we all love.

Step 5: Coat and Serve

Toss your crispy fried chicken right into the simmering sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Transfer everything onto a serving dish and get ready for those smiles. It’s best served fresh and hot!

How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions over the top for a pop of color and that nutty crunch. For an extra fresh touch, a few fresh cilantro leaves or even a wedge of orange brighten things up magnificently.

Side Dishes

This saucy, crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up all the luscious sauce. You can also serve it alongside simple stir-fried veggies or crunchy Asian slaw to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your orange chicken over fried rice or inside lettuce wraps for a hand-held delight. Garnishing with edible flowers or thin carrot ribbons adds beautiful contrast and makes any meal feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The chicken might lose a bit of its crispiness, but the flavor will stay vibrant and delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked and sauced orange chicken by covering it tightly and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for better texture.

Reheating

To revive your leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the coating from getting soggy. Avoid microwaving if possible, or use short bursts with a paper towel to prevent steam buildup.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting and exciting about making your own Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe at home — it’s crispy, saucy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. I promise once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a big hit at your dinner table!

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