Walking through a food court, you can’t help but notice certain smells. For many, the scent of Orange Chicken from Panda Express is unmistakable. It’s a dish that has captured the hearts of many with its savory, slightly sweet taste.
The dish’s charm comes from its perfect balance of flavors. It has a crispy outside and a tender inside, all coated in a tangy, sweet sauce. Making this dish at home lets you enjoy it whenever you like, without going to the food court.
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Panda Express Orange Chicken
Panda Express is famous for its Chinese-American dishes. Orange Chicken is a big hit, thanks to the restaurant’s history. It all started with Panda Express itself.
History of Panda Express
In 1983, Andrew Cherng and his father, Master Chef Wing Cherng, opened Panda Express in Glendale, California. It began small but grew fast. Panda Express mixed traditional Chinese recipes with American tastes. This unique blend attracted many customers.
How Orange Chicken Became Their Signature Dish
Orange Chicken was introduced in the late 1980s. It was a hit right away. The dish had crispy chicken in a sweet and spicy orange sauce. It quickly became a favorite at Panda Express.
The Orange Chicken recipe has changed a bit over time. But its core flavors and textures are still loved by millions. It’s a top choice on the Panda Express menu.
Why This Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Works
With just a few ingredients and techniques, you can make a tasty Orange Chicken recipe at home. It’s as good as your favorite takeout. The secret is in the authentic flavor of Panda Express Orange Chicken, a favorite in American-Chinese food.
The Secret to Authentic Flavor
The secret to this Orange Chicken recipe’s flavor is the orange sauce. Freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger mix to create a tangy and savory sauce. Using top-quality ingredients makes the flavor rich and complex, just like Panda Express.
Benefits of Making Orange Chicken at Home
Making Orange Chicken at home has many benefits. It’s cost-effective – you can make a big batch for less than ordering from a restaurant. Plus, you can customize the dish to your taste preferences, like adding more spice or using different proteins.
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost-Effective | Make a large batch for less than the cost of restaurant ordering |
| Customization | Adjust spice levels and ingredients to your taste |
| Healthier Options | Control the amount of oil used in the recipe |
Complete Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Overview
To make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home, you need to know the recipe well. This copycat recipe is easy to follow. It lets you enjoy your favorite dish in your kitchen.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparing this dish takes about 40 minutes. You’ll spend 20 minutes preparing and 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Difficulty Level and Yield
This recipe is moderately difficult. It has a few steps, but they’re simple. You’ll get 6 servings, great for a small family or friends.
Nutritional Information
Knowing what you eat is key. Each serving has about 726 calories. Here’s what you get per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 726 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 45g |
Knowing these details helps you make a meal as tasty as Panda Express Orange Chicken.
Ingredients Breakdown for Perfect Orange Chicken
To make Panda Express Orange Chicken, you need to know the key ingredients. The recipe has two main parts: the chicken and the orange sauce. Each part needs specific ingredients for the right flavor.
For the Chicken
The chicken is key in Panda Express Orange Chicken. You must choose the right chicken and prepare it well.
Meat Selection Tips
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best results. They are juicier and better textured than breasts. Make sure the chicken thighs are fresh and of high quality.
Marinade Components
The marinade makes the chicken tender and flavorful. You’ll need:
- Flour
- Cornstarch
- Egg
- Sparkling water
- Various seasonings
Mixing these ingredients right will give your chicken the perfect crunch and flavor.
For the Orange Sauce
The orange sauce is what makes Panda Express Orange Chicken special. It’s a mix of different ingredients.
Essential Flavor Elements
The orange sauce’s success comes from its ingredients. These include:
- Orange juice
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Various spices and seasonings
Together, these ingredients make a sauce that’s tangy and sweet, with a rich flavor.
Substitution Options
If you’re missing some ingredients, there are substitutes. You can use fresh orange juice instead of bottled, or adjust the sugar to taste. Knowing these options lets you tailor the recipe to your liking.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Before you start making homemade orange chicken, it’s crucial to have the right kitchen equipment. The right tools make cooking smoother and ensure your dish turns out great.
Essential Tools
For making Panda Express Orange Chicken, you’ll need a wok or large skillet, a thermometer, and a deep frying pan. A wok is perfect for stir-frying chicken and veggies quickly. A thermometer helps you get the oil to the right temperature for frying. A deep frying pan is key for safely frying the chicken.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
An air fryer and a slow cooker can also be useful. An air fryer lets you get a crispy chicken exterior with less oil. A slow cooker helps simmer the orange sauce for a deeper flavor.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wok or Large Skillet | Stir-frying chicken and vegetables |
| Thermometer | Monitoring oil temperature |
| Deep Frying Pan | Frying chicken |
| Air Fryer | Achieving crispy chicken with less oil |
| Slow Cooker | Simmering orange sauce |
Preparing the Chicken Step-by-Step
To make Panda Express Orange Chicken, start by preparing the chicken. Cut it into the right sizes, marinate it for flavor, and make a batter for frying.
Cutting and Marinating Techniques
First, cut the chicken into small pieces. This makes sure it cooks evenly and is easy to eat. For the marinade, mix egg, sparkling water, and seasonings.
The sparkling water makes the chicken tender and juicy. Here’s what each ingredient does:
- Egg: Adds richness and moisture
- Sparkling water: Tenderizes the chicken
- Seasonings: Enhance the overall flavor
Creating the Perfect Batter
The batter is key for a crispy exterior. Mix flour, cornstarch, and spices to make it. Flour and cornstarch give the right crunch.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flour | Provides structure |
| Cornstarch | Adds crunch |
| Spices | Enhances flavor |
By following these steps, you’ll prepare the chicken perfectly. This will help you make tasty Orange Chicken at home.
Mastering the Signature Orange Sauce
To make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home, you need to get the orange sauce right. This sauce is what makes the dish special. It gives it a unique flavor that’s different from other orange chicken recipes.
Key Ingredients That Make the Difference
The orange sauce is a mix of many flavors. But some ingredients are key to its taste. Orange zest and crushed red pepper flakes are important. They add the sauce’s characteristic taste and heat.
Other must-haves are orange juice, soy sauce, and sugar. These ingredients balance the flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Juice | 1 cup | Provides citrus flavor |
| Soy Sauce | 1/2 cup | Adds depth and umami |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup | Balances the acidity |
| Orange Zest | 2 tbsp | Gives a fresh orange flavor |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1 tsp | Adds a spicy kick |
Step-by-Step Sauce Preparation
To make the orange sauce, start by mixing orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and orange zest in a saucepan. Heat it until it boils, then lower the heat. Let it simmer until it thickens.
After that, add the crushed red pepper flakes. This makes a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the chicken.
By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can make a signature orange sauce like Panda Express. This sauce is great not just with orange chicken but also as a dipping sauce or with other dishes.
Frying Techniques for Restaurant-Quality Results
To make Orange Chicken like a restaurant, you need to master frying. The right way to fry can change the taste and feel of your easy orange chicken recipe.
First, knowing how to control the oil temperature is key. Getting the oil to the perfect heat is essential for a crispy outside and juicy inside.
Oil Temperature Control
Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial for frying. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is done. If it’s too cold, the chicken will soak up too much oil, making it greasy.
The best temperature for frying Orange Chicken is between 350°F and 375°F. Use a thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
Double-Frying Method
The double-frying method is a technique used by many restaurants, including Panda Express. It involves frying the chicken twice, with a break in between.
The first fry cooks the chicken a bit, and the second fry makes it crispy. This method ensures the chicken is fully cooked and has a crunchy coating.
Troubleshooting Common Frying Issues
Even with the right technique, problems can still happen. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
- If the chicken is not crispy, check the oil temperature and make sure it’s in the ideal range.
- If the chicken is too greasy, it might be because the oil was not hot enough or the pot was too full.
- If the coating is falling off, try adjusting your batter recipe or make sure the chicken is dry before coating.
By mastering these frying techniques, you’ll be able to make an asian chicken recipe that will wow everyone. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right.
Variations of the Classic Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
You can make the Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe your own. It’s great because you can try new flavors and cooking ways. This makes it perfect for everyone.
Healthier Baking Method
Want a healthier option? Try baking the Orange Chicken instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Coat the chicken as the recipe says, then put it on a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken will be cooked and crispy. This way, you cut down on fat.
Spicy Orange Chicken Adaptation
Love spicy food? Add some heat to your Orange Chicken. Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the sauce. Start with a teaspoon of red pepper flakes and adjust to your taste.
This spicy twist keeps the orange flavor in the background. It adds a bold new taste.
Dietary Modifications (Gluten-Free, Keto)
The recipe can be changed for different diets. For gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and make sure the cornstarch is gluten-free. For keto, swap the sugar with Swerve or Erythritol. Serve it over cauliflower rice or a veggie.
Conclusion
You can now enjoy Panda Express Orange Chicken at home. This recipe lets you skip takeout and still get that delicious taste. It’s a way to bring the authentic Panda Express flavor right to your kitchen.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to make the chicken and the orange sauce. You also know how to fry it just like Panda Express. You can even try different versions, like baking or adding a spicy kick, to make it your own.
Now, you can have Panda Express Orange Chicken whenever you want, without leaving your house. Just get your ingredients ready, follow the steps, and enjoy your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken.