Orange Chicken Recipe {Panda Express Copycat}
The delightful taste of Orange Chicken is something that stays with you long after the last bite. This recipe is a fantastic way to recreate the fan-favorite dish from Panda Express, bringing a piece of Chinese-American cuisine right to your kitchen. The sweet, tangy orange sauce combined with crispy chicken is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a joyful experience to prepare. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy evening at home, a family gathering, or simply indulging in your favorite comfort food, this Orange Chicken recipe is sure to impress!
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s a world of reasons to fall in love with this Orange Chicken recipe. First off, it’s incredibly simple to make, meaning you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Budget-friendly ingredients and easy steps make it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, this dish is kid-approved thanks to its sweet and zesty taste, which is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. Also, the satisfaction of creating something so delectable at home is unparalleled.
“This Orange Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights! It’s quick, easy, and tastes amazing!” – Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Orange Chicken at home is a straightforward process that involves prepping the chicken, making the sticky orange sauce, and frying until crispy. To ensure a smooth cooking experience, here’s a brief overview: you’ll start by marinating the chicken, then coat it in a crispy batter, fry it until golden brown, and finally toss it in a homemade orange sauce. This creates layers of flavor and texture that make the dish irresistible.
Gather these items
To make this mouthwatering Orange Chicken, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cornstarch
- Egg
- Orange juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
- Sugar
- Soy sauce
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Green onions (for garnish)
Feel free to swap ingredients based on availability or dietary preferences, such as using a gluten-free soy sauce alternative or substituting chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Directions to follow
- Marinate the chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of garlic and ginger. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to absorb those wonderful flavors.
- Coat the chicken: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and cornstarch together until smooth. Toss the marinated chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces for frying.
- Fry the chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy (about 3-5 minutes per batch). Remove and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Cook on medium heat until bubbling and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and serve: In a large bowl, toss the crispy chicken with the orange sauce until well coated. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
For a delightful presentation, serve your Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or steamed jasmine rice. This not only enhances the dish but also soaks up every bit of that luscious sauce. Pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the flavors perfectly. You can even serve it alongside crispy spring rolls for a more elaborate spread.
How to store & freeze
Storing leftover Orange Chicken is quite simple. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure the chicken is well-coated with sauce and stored in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months. When reheating, ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature before enjoying.
Helpful cooking tips
- Work in batches: Frying the chicken in smaller batches ensures that they cook evenly and get that ideal crispy texture without overcrowding the pan.
- Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar in the sauce to match your taste preference. Some might enjoy a tangier flavor, while others prefer it sweeter.
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice will elevate the flavor, making the dish even more vibrant and delicious.
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Consider adding some heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or tossing in some fresh vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for added nutrition. For a tangy twist, you could even incorporate pineapple chunks into the sauce.
Common questions
How long does it take to prep and cook?
The entire process can take about 45 minutes, with only about 15 minutes of active cooking time.
Can I freeze the Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container and consume it within 1-2 months for the best taste.
What can I substitute for the chicken?
Tofu or tempeh can be excellent substitutes for a vegetarian option, soaking up the flavors beautifully.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch!
This Orange Chicken recipe is an exciting way to bring a restaurant favorite into your home kitchen. With its vibrant flavor and crispy texture, it’s bound to become a family favorite that you’ll make over and over again!
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the chicken by combining the chicken pieces with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cornstarch until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Coat the marinated chicken pieces in the egg and cornstarch mixture.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Cook on medium heat until bubbling and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss the crispy chicken pieces with the orange sauce in a large bowl until well coated. Garnish with chopped green onions.
