Panda Express Orange Chicken (Copycat)
If you’re a fan of takeout, then Panda Express Orange Chicken likely holds a special place in your heart. This dish strikes the right balance between sweet and savory, making it a favorite for dinner nights across the country. What if I told you that you could recreate this beloved meal right in your own kitchen? With the copycat version from Dinner, then Dessert, you’ll have all the crispy exterior and tangy glaze that you crave, minus the take-out wait time. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a fun twist for your next family dinner, this recipe doesn’t just save you money—it gives you control over the ingredients!
Why this dish should be on your dinner table
There are countless reasons to give this copycat recipe a try, but let’s start with the most delicious one: it’s just as tasty, if not better, than the restaurant version. Crispy chicken bites nestled in a luscious orange sauce bring a flavorful explosion to your pallet. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile; it works great for a casual weeknight meal or even as part of a festive feast.
A thoughtful review
“I made this for my family last week, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! My kids actually ate their veggies when I served it alongside—the orange chicken is that good!”
The cooking process explained
Preparing this Orange Chicken is a straightforward, step-by-step process. You’ll start by marinating the chicken pieces, then coat them for that irresistible crunch. While that’s happening, whip up a vibrant orange sauce that will take this dish over the top. When everything is cooked to perfection, you’ll toss the golden-brown chicken in the sauce and serve it with a smile!
Here’s what you’ll need
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Cornstarch
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Garlic
- Ginger
Note: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs if you prefer a darker meat or if you want a juicier texture.
Step-by-step instructions
- Whisk together the eggs in a bowl.
- Combine cornstarch and flour in a separate bowl.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, followed by the flour mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Toss the fried chicken in the prepared sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
![Panda Express Orange Chicken (Copycat) [VIDEO] - Dinner, then Dessert](https://www.copycat-recipe.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/panda-express-orange-chicken-copycat-2026-06-07-170135.webp)
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving your copycat Orange Chicken is as simple as it is satisfying. A generous helping of fluffy white rice or a bed of fried rice pairs beautifully with the dish, soaking up all that zesty sauce. For a refreshing twist, consider serving it alongside a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. If you want to impress guests, you can garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flair.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your leftover Orange Chicken is easy. Place any uneaten food in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing the cooked dish. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, microwave in short bursts for even warmth or heat on the stove over low heat.
Extra advice
To elevate your Orange Chicken even more, don’t skip the marinating step. Allowing the chicken to soak up some flavors beforehand yields a juicier and more flavorful result. Also, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding chicken to prevent the pieces from becoming greasy. You want that crispy texture that everyone loves!
Creative twists to try
Looking to change things up? Consider adding pineapple chunks to the sauce for a tropical twist. You can also vary the texture by adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas to the frying pan, giving both color and crunch.
Common questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This recipe typically takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
2. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with tofu for a vegetarian option, and shrimp can also be a delightful substitute.
3. What if I don’t have orange juice?
You can swap it out for lemon juice in a pinch, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile.
4. How can I adjust this for a spicier dish?
Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat, or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick.
In summary, this copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken will not only satisfy your cravings but also bring the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, offers easy preparation, and is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk together the eggs in a bowl.
- Combine cornstarch and flour in a separate bowl.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, followed by the flour mixture, ensuring they're fully coated.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Toss the fried chicken in the prepared sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
