Orange Chicken Panda Express: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Orange Chicken Panda Express is a dish that needs no introduction. Imagine biting into crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces, each one glistening with a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce that dances on your tongue. It’s an explosion of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting, and it’s no wonder this dish has become a global phenomenon.

While the exact origins of Orange Chicken Panda Express are shrouded in a bit of mystery, it’s widely believed to be an Americanized adaptation of traditional Chinese orange-flavored chicken dishes. Panda Express, the restaurant chain that made it famous, perfected the recipe, creating a craveable combination that appeals to a wide range of palates. The dish cleverly blends the principles of sweet and sour cuisine, a cornerstone of Cantonese cooking, with a distinctly American preference for bold flavors and crispy textures.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, combined with the satisfying crunch of the chicken. It’s also incredibly convenient – a quick and easy meal that can be enjoyed on the go or as part of a larger family feast. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, Orange Chicken Panda Express is sure to hit the spot. So, let’s dive into creating this iconic dish right in your own kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup water
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Orange Sauce:
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• For Serving:
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

Alright, let’s get started with the chicken! This is the foundation of our delicious Orange Chicken, so we want to make sure it’s perfectly crispy and tender.

1. Cut the Chicken: First, take your chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. I find that thighs work best because they stay nice and juicy during the frying process, but you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook it!
2. Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give our chicken that signature crispy coating. Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Create the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water. This will help the breading adhere to the chicken.
4. Dredge the Chicken: Now, it’s time to dredge the chicken. Take a piece of chicken, dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, transfer it to the bowl with the cornstarch mixture and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered! Repeat this process with all the chicken pieces.

Frying the Chicken:

Now for the fun part – frying! This is where the magic happens and our chicken transforms into golden, crispy perfection. Safety first, though! Be careful when working with hot oil.

1. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or pot so that it’s about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of breading into it. If it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Chicken in Batches: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.

Making the Orange Sauce:

The orange sauce is what truly makes this dish special. It’s sweet, tangy, and packed with citrusy flavor. Let’s get started on creating this amazing sauce!

1. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce.
2. Add the Aromatics: Stir in the orange zest, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). The ginger and garlic add a wonderful depth of flavor, while the red pepper flakes provide a touch of heat.
3. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan and whisk to combine.
4. Cook the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon. Be careful not to overcook the sauce, as it can become too thick.

Combining Chicken and Sauce:

This is the final step! We’re bringing together the crispy chicken and the flavorful orange sauce to create our masterpiece.

1. Toss the Chicken in Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the orange sauce and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece of chicken is generously coated in that delicious sauce.
2. Heat Through: Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is nicely glazed.

Serving:

Time to enjoy the fruits of our labor! Here’s how I like to serve my Orange Chicken.

1. Serve Over Rice: Spoon a generous portion of cooked white rice into a bowl or plate.
2. Top with Orange Chicken: Top the rice with the Orange Chicken.
3. Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
4. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your passport to recreating that iconic Orange Chicken Panda Express flavor right in your own kitchen. And trust me, once you taste the sweet, tangy, and perfectly crispy chicken, you’ll understand why I’m so excited for you to try it. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding a family of four or hosting a game night with friends.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor that rivals the original, it’s about control. You get to choose your ingredients, ensuring the highest quality and freshness. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, making it mild for the kids or fiery for the adventurous eaters. Plus, let’s be honest, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from mastering a dish you used to only get from takeout.

And the best part? The possibilities are endless! While I personally love serving this Orange Chicken Panda Express copycat over fluffy white rice, you could also try it with brown rice for a healthier option. Quinoa would also be a fantastic and nutritious alternative. For a low-carb twist, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a vibrant green salad.

Looking for some variation ideas? Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation and added flavor. For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce or add a drizzle of sriracha at the end. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of citrus, like mandarin oranges or even blood oranges, for a unique twist on the classic flavor. You could even add some pineapple chunks to the stir-fry for a sweet and tangy tropical vibe.

Another fun variation is to bread the chicken with panko breadcrumbs instead of regular flour for an extra crispy texture. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as a sweet chili sauce or a spicy mayo, to complement the orange chicken.

But really, the most important thing is to have fun with it! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and this recipe is a great starting point for unleashing your culinary creativity.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s quick, easy, and delivers that craveable orange chicken flavor that everyone loves. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken Panda Express!