Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe with Simple Ingredients

Want the taste of Panda Express’s famous Orange Chicken but don’t want to go out? You’re in luck. Making their Orange Chicken at home is super easy.

This recipe has become a hit, and it’s easy to see why. With just a few ingredients and 40 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a delicious homemade version of this takeout favorite.

It only takes 20 minutes to prepare and another 20 to cook. This makes it a quick and satisfying meal for 6 people.

Key Takeaways

• Quick and easy to make at home
• Total cooking time is just 40 minutes
• Serves 6 people
• Requires minimal prep time
• Uses simple ingredients

The Story Behind Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a favorite for millions. But, do you know its story? Panda Express, a well-known Chinese-American fast food chain, has been serving Orange Chicken for decades.

History of Panda Express Restaurant Chain

Panda Express started in 1983 by Andrew Cherng and his wife Peggy Cherng. The first restaurant opened in Glendale, California. It quickly became famous for its unique Chinese-American dishes.

Today, Panda Express is a big name in the fast food world. It has over 2,000 locations across the United States.

Why Orange Chicken Became Their Signature Dish

Orange Chicken was introduced in the late 1980s and hit it off with customers. Chef Andy Kao created the recipe. It mixed crispy-fried chicken with a sweet and sour orange sauce.

This mix of flavors and textures won over American taste buds. Orange Chicken became a must-have on the Panda Express menu. It’s still a top choice today, making Panda Express a leader in fast food.

Orange Chicken’s success comes from its unique taste. It’s both sweet and savory. Plus, it lets customers add their own touches. This has made Orange Chicken a favorite among Panda Express fans, and its popularity keeps growing.

What Makes Panda Express Orange Chicken So Special

Panda Express Orange Chicken is loved for its mix of sweet, sour, and savory tastes. It’s a standout among Chinese dishes. So, what makes it so unique? Let’s explore.

The Unique Flavor Profile

The taste of Panda Express Orange Chicken is a perfect mix. The orange sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. This pairs well with the savory chicken. This balance is why it’s so popular.

Texture Differences from Other Chinese Chicken Dishes

Panda Express Orange Chicken also has a special texture. It has a crispy outside and tender inside. The batter makes the chicken crunchy, while the inside stays juicy. This texture is a big part of its charm.

The unique taste and texture make Panda Express Orange Chicken special. You can make it at home with the right ingredients and methods.

Ingredients for Authentic Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

To make a real Panda Express Orange Chicken, you need a few key ingredients. The dish has crispy chicken in a tasty orange sauce. The ingredients fall into three groups: chicken, orange sauce, and batter.

Chicken Selection and Preparation

You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut small. Fresh, high-quality chicken is crucial for great taste and texture. You can pick breast or thigh, or mix both for extra texture.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Cut into bite-sized pieces

Orange Sauce Components

The orange sauce is key to Panda Express Orange Chicken. It’s a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The main parts are:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 cup orange marmalade
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

These ingredients make a rich, tasty sauce that goes well with the chicken.

Batter and Coating Ingredients

To get the crispy outside of Panda Express Orange Chicken, you need a batter and coating. The batter includes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt

With these ingredients and the right steps, you can make a real Panda Express Orange Chicken at home.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make a great Panda Express Orange Chicken copycat recipe, you need the right tools. You’ll want to have the best equipment for cooking homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken.

Essential Tools for Preparation

First, gather your prep tools. You’ll need mixing bowls for marinating the chicken. Also, measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurements. Don’t forget a whisk to mix the orange sauce well.

Cooking Equipment Options

For cooking, you have two choices. You can use a deep fryer for a crispy chicken exterior. Or, a large skillet with 3-4 inches of oil works well too. Both methods can make your chicken delicious.

Step-by-Step Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Make the famous Panda Express Orange Chicken at home with our easy guide. Follow these steps to create a dish that your family will love.

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by getting the chicken ready for frying. Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small pieces. In a bowl, mix 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon of water. Add the chicken to the bowl and mix until it’s fully coated.

In another bowl, mix 1 cup of cornstarch, 1/2 cup of flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add the dry ingredients to the chicken, tossing to coat well. Make sure each piece is fully coated for a crispy exterior.

Making the Orange Sauce

The orange sauce is key to Panda Express Orange Chicken. In a saucepan, mix 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of orange marmalade. Heat it over medium, stirring constantly.

In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring until it thickens. Then, remove it from heat and set it aside.

Frying the Chicken to Perfection

Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per batch.

Take the fried chicken out of the oil with a slotted spoon. Place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high. Add the orange sauce and bring it to a simmer. Add the fried chicken, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

Serve the Panda Express Orange Chicken hot. Garnish with sliced green onions and orange zest if you like.

Expert Tips for Making Restaurant-Quality Orange Chicken

Want to make Panda Express Orange Chicken just like the real thing? It’s all about paying attention to detail and using some insider secrets. This will help you make Orange Chicken at home that’s just as good as the restaurant version.

Getting the Right Texture

The texture of Orange Chicken is key to its appeal. To get that crispy outside and juicy inside, don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Cook the chicken in batches if you have to, so each piece can cook evenly. Also, using the right batter ingredients, like cornstarch and eggs, will help you get a crunchy coating that sticks well to the chicken.

• Use cornstarch for a crispy coating
• Avoid overcrowding the frying pan
• Use the right oil temperature

Balancing Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Flavors

Panda Express Orange Chicken is famous for its mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. To get this right, adjust the sugar, vinegar, and chili flakes to your liking. Start with a little chili flakes and add more if you want more heat. Remember, the heat can add up fast.

• Balance sugar and vinegar for the right tanginess
• Add chili flakes for a spicy kick
• Taste and adjust as you go

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orange Chicken, there are a few mistakes to avoid. Don’t use too much oil, as it can make the dish greasy. Also, be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Lastly, make sure to double-fry the chicken for that perfect crispy exterior.

• Don’t overcook the chicken
• Avoid using too much oil
• Double-fry for the crispiest results

By following these expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to making authentic Panda Express Orange Chicken. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing.

Homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken Variations

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a dish you can change to fit your taste and diet. You can make it healthier, avoid certain ingredients, or try new flavors. There are many ways to modify this popular recipe.

Healthier Baking Alternative

Want to eat fewer calories? Try baking the chicken instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Coat the chicken in the batter and place it on a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until it’s cooked and crispy.

“Baking is a great way to reduce fat without losing flavor,” says Chef Samantha. You can still toss the baked chicken in the orange sauce for that Panda Express taste.

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Without Cornstarch

Need to avoid cornstarch? You can use all-purpose flour or potato starch instead. Flour might make the chicken a bit denser. Potato starch gives a similar crispiness to cornstarch. Mix your chosen substitute with the other ingredients and follow the recipe as usual.

Dietary Modifications (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

To make Panda Express Orange Chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Make sure all your ingredients are gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, watch out for dairy in the orange sauce. You can replace dairy with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.

“The key to successful dietary modifications is being mindful of the ingredients you use,”

advisesNutritionist Mark.

By making these changes, you can enjoy Panda Express Orange Chicken that fits your dietary needs.

Storage, Make-Ahead and Reheating Instructions

To enjoy your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken at its best, follow proper storage, make-ahead, and reheating instructions. This keeps the dish flavorful and crispy.

Proper Storage Methods

Let the Panda Express Orange Chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture and keeps the chicken crispy. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Make-Ahead Tips for Meal Prep

You can prepare parts of the Panda Express Orange Chicken ahead of time. The orange sauce can be made and stored for up to a week. Marinate the chicken in advance, but fry it just before serving for crispiness.

For meal prep, prepare the batter and have all ingredients ready. This way, you can quickly assemble and cook when needed.

Best Practices for Reheating

Use the oven or air fryer to reheat the chicken for crispiness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. Cook in an air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy. Reheat the orange sauce separately and toss the chicken in it before serving.

Conclusion

Now you know how to make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home. It’s easy with simple ingredients and a straightforward process. You can enjoy this signature dish without leaving your kitchen.

The recipe in this article lets you make a delicious, restaurant-quality meal. It’s sure to please everyone.

Feel free to try different versions of the recipe. You can bake instead of fry or make it healthier. This makes it easy to customize the recipe to your liking.

By following the steps and tips, you’ll make a mouth-watering Panda Express Orange Chicken dish. It’s sure to become a favorite. So, go ahead and try it out – your taste buds will thank you.