If you’ve ever found yourself craving the bold, tangy, and perfectly crispy flavors of Panda Express but wished you could recreate them right at home, then this Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and savory orange-infused sauce coating tender, crispy chicken pieces that come together in under half an hour. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or to impress friends with a homemade takeout classic, this recipe will become a trusted favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive right in and make that iconic flavor yours anytime you want!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe calls for a handful of simple, easily found ingredients. Each plays a crucial role—whether it’s the cornstarch for that irresistible crispy coating, the fresh orange juice for a bright citrus punch, or the ginger adding a warm, aromatic kick. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious dish that bursts with flavor and texture.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Tender white meat that crisps up beautifully and soaks up the sauce.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Essential for that signature crunchy coating on the chicken.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps the cornstarch stick to the chicken for even frying.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: The perfect frying medium that adds a subtle flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best): Brings lively, natural citrus flavor, making the sauce pop.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds savory depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Creates that irresistible sweet glaze.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Introduces a gentle acidity to brighten the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Provides a warm, spicy undertone that’s unmistakable.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle heat kick, but feel free to skip if you prefer milder flavors.
How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Chicken
Start by cubing the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces—this ensures every piece cooks evenly and crisps nicely. Then, toss the chicken cubes in cornstarch. This layer is critical because it gives the chicken that golden crunch we all love. Next, dip each piece into the beaten egg, which acts as a glue, making sure the cornstarch stays put during frying.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Crispy Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch until the chicken turns golden brown and crisp all over. This usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Once done, transfer the chicken to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Create the Orange Sauce
With your skillet cleaned out but still warm, add the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors. This step is where the magic happens, as the sauce begins to thicken and intensify in flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Glaze the Chicken
Return the crispy chicken pieces to the skillet and carefully toss them in the simmering orange sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently until every piece is beautifully glazed with that sticky, flavorful coating you crave from the Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe. Be sure not to overcook, so the chicken stays perfectly tender on the inside.
How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and vibrant finishing touch, sprinkle some finely chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds over the glazed orange chicken. These little additions not only add visual appeal but bring extra fragrance and texture that elevate the overall experience.
Side Dishes
Orange chicken pairs effortlessly with steamed white rice or fluffy jasmine rice, which helps soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside vegetable stir-fry or noodles to create a complete, satisfying meal packed with variety and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to shake things up? Try serving your orange chicken in lettuce cups for a light, handheld option perfect for casual gatherings. Alternatively, heap the chicken over crispy fried rice or stuff into steamed bao buns for a playful twist that’ll wow anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe, simply transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, ready to be enjoyed again without losing that signature flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can also freeze cooked orange chicken for longer storage. Place the cooled chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To best preserve the crispy texture and vibrant sauce, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the coating soggy. Add a small splash of water or orange juice if the sauce has thickened too much, stirring to keep everything glossy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add a richer flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same frying and saucing process for equally delicious results.
Is fresh orange juice necessary for the sauce?
Fresh orange juice really shines in this recipe by providing a bright, natural flavor that bottled juice can’t quite match. But if you’re in a pinch, a high-quality bottled orange juice will work just fine.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and double-check your cornstarch to ensure it’s pure and gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is this orange chicken?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that balances the sweetness, but the amount can easily be adjusted to your taste—or omitted altogether for a completely mild dish.
What can I serve with Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe for a balanced meal?
Pair the chicken with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers, along with a side of rice or noodles to create a colorful, satisfying, and well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
Diving into this Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine and bold flavor right into your kitchen. It’s comforting, exciting, and downright addictive all at once. Once you make it, you’ll see just how achievable those takeout favorites can be at home. Grab your ingredients, turn up the heat, and get ready to impress yourself (and everyone else) with this delicious dish. Happy cooking!
Print
Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Description
This Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe features crispy chicken breast pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce made from fresh ingredients. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or to satisfy your takeout cravings at home.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Orange Sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for frying the chicken.
- Prepare the Chicken: Coat the cubed chicken pieces in cornstarch completely, then dip them into the beaten egg mixture to create a crispy coating when fried.
- Fry the Chicken: Add the coated chicken to the hot skillet and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring this mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Coat Chicken in Sauce: Return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly with the orange sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken perfectly.
- Serve: Serve the orange chicken hot alongside rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can double dip the chicken by repeating the cornstarch and egg coating step before frying.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor of the sauce, but bottled juice can be used if necessary.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli or snap peas for added vegetable servings.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
