Quick & Easy

Panda Express Orange Chicken

Name: Panda Express Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch; 2 eggs, whisked; Vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; Fresh ginger (to taste); Red pepper flakes (optional)

February 19, 2025

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When life gives you lemons, trade them in for oranges and whip up a batch of Panda Express Orange Chicken. The first bite reveals a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to your favorite takeout spot, minus the wait time and the questionable fortune cookie predictions. With its crispy chicken coated in a luscious, tangy orange sauce that dances between sweet and savory like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show, this dish is bound to become your new go-to comfort food!

But wait – before you dive into this culinary adventure, let me share a little secret. The last time I made this dish, my friends thought I had taken a masterclass from some five-star restaurant chef. Little did they know that the only thing I mastered was the art of pretending to be busy while the oven worked its magic. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser for any occasion – whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering where you want to wow everyone without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This incredible Panda Express Orange Chicken offers fantastic flavor without complicated steps
You can customize the spice level as per your taste preferences
Vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
Perfect for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for special occasions or entertaining guests

I remember one particularly chaotic weeknight when I decided to serve this dish to impress my family after they had been stuck in traffic for hours. Their eyes lit up like Christmas morning when they spotted the orange-glazed goodness on their plates!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your hunger levels or guest count.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crunchy coating; feel free to substitute with cornstarch if gluten-free.
Eggs: They help create a crispy exterior; whisk them well before using.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.
Fresh Ginger: Adds warmth and depth; use fresh rather than powdered for better flavor.

For the Sauce:

Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides vibrant flavor; avoid bottled juice if possible.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still giving umami flavor.
Brown Sugar: Balances acidity with sweetness; light or dark sugar works beautifully here.
Rice Vinegar: Brightens up the sauce; can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended if you enjoy a little heat in your sweet!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat your kitchen and get ready to create some deliciousness!

Prep Your Chicken: Start by cutting boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and ensures every piece gets coated in that yummy sauce.

Breading Time: Set up a breading station with flour on one plate and whisked eggs on another. Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then in egg. This double-dip technique gives you extra crunch!

Fry It Up: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully drop in the breaded chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy about 5-7 minutes should do it! Drain on paper towels.

Create That Saucy Goodness: In another pan over medium heat, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir until bubbly and thickened around 3-5 minutes should suffice.

Toss It All Together: Add the fried chicken back into the saucepan with your glorious sauce. Toss gently until every piece is coated in that shiny glaze.

Serve warm over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried veggies the choice is yours! Enjoy each bite as if you’re dining at your favorite Asian restaurant right from home.

Now that you’ve created this masterpiece of flavors right in your kitchen, gather your loved ones around for an unforgettable meal filled with laughter and good company!

You Must Know

This delicious Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe brings the restaurant experience home
The vibrant flavors and crispy texture will impress your family
Tackle common pitfalls like sogginess by following these tips, ensuring every bite is a taste of perfection

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, prepare your sauce and other ingredients so everything is ready when you begin frying. This sequence helps keep your kitchen organized and maximizes flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist. For added zest, toss in some crushed red pepper or sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the chicken remains crispy rather than soggy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that signature crunch, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps maintain temperature and promotes even cooking
If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely for best results

It was my sister’s birthday when I first made this dish. The look on her face when she took that first bite made all those hours in the kitchen worth it. She declared me a culinary genius, which was nice even if I knew it was just a well-executed recipe!

FAQ

Can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch for coating.

How do I ensure my chicken stays crispy?

Fry in small batches and avoid overcooking to maintain crispiness.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.