How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken at Home: Best Recipe 2024

The smell of sizzling chicken and tangy orange sauce in your kitchen is unmistakable. It’s the scent of Panda Express Orange Chicken, a favorite in many homes. I’ve spent hours craving this dish and finally mastered it at home.

Recreating the signature flavor can be both exciting and daunting. But don’t worry, I’m here to help. I’ll guide you through every step, so you can enjoy the same taste in your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Prepare a crispy, golden-brown chicken batter in just 20 minutes
• Master the balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes in the signature orange sauce
• Achieve the perfect texture and crispiness through expert frying techniques
• Serving suggestions and variations to satisfy all tastes and dietary preferences
• Enjoy a restaurant-quality Panda Express Orange Chicken at home in under 40 minutes

What Makes Panda Express Orange Chicken Special

Panda Express orange chicken is a favorite on their menu. Its unique flavors make it stand out. It’s a hit in the world of panda express copycat recipes and restaurant secret recipes.

The Secret Behind Its Signature Taste

The taste of Panda Express orange chicken is special. It’s a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory. The main ingredients are orange juice and zest, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and sugars.

Why This Copycat Recipe Works

This chinese food recipe brings the real Panda Express orange chicken taste home. It uses fresh ingredients and the restaurant’s technique. The crispy chicken and flavorful sauce make it taste like a restaurant dish.

Key Ingredients Overview

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Cornstarch and all-purpose flour for the batter
• Orange juice, orange zest, and rice vinegar for the signature sauce
• Sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to enhance the flavor profile
• A blend of white and brown sugar to strike the perfect balance of sweetness

The secret to Panda Express orange chicken’s charm is its balanced ingredients. They come together to make a dish you’ll want more of.

Essential Ingredients and Equipment

To make the famous Panda Express orange chicken at home, you need the right ingredients and tools. The secret to Panda Express’s taste is using fresh, top-notch ingredients. Let’s explore what you’ll need to start.

For the chicken, use 1-1/2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are tender and taste better than chicken breasts. You’ll also need 1/2 cup of cornstarch for the batter, along with flour, eggs, and oils like canola and sesame.

The orange sauce is key. You’ll need fresh orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, and garlic. 1 tablespoon of cornstarch will thicken the sauce just right.

For cooking, you’ll need a big skillet or wok to fry the chicken. Also, mixing bowls and a food thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F to 375°F for crispiness.

With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a restaurant-quality Panda Express orange chicken dish at home. Now, let’s follow the step-by-step recipe to make this favorite dish.

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Craving Panda Express orange chicken but don’t want to wait in line? You can make this quick chicken dinners dish at home. Our step-by-step guide will help you enjoy the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Preparing the Chicken Batter

Start by mixing 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of water, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a bowl. Then, mix 1 cup of cornstarch, 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in another bowl. Coat the diced chicken breasts (1 lb) in the dry mixture, then dip them in the egg wash.

Making the Orange Sauce

To make the orange sauce, mix 1/3 cup of orange juice, 1 tablespoon each of cornstarch, honey, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger. This mix of takeout chicken meal ingredients gives you a sweet, tangy, and savory sauce.

Frying Techniques for Perfect Crispiness

Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok to 375°F (190°C). Fry the battered chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate, then toss it with the orange sauce. Add sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a great presentation.

Follow this guide to enjoy Panda Express’ quick chicken dinners at home in under 30 minutes. Impress your family and friends with your homemade version of this asian-inspired meals favorite.

Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results

Make your homemade asian cuisine chicken dishes as good as Panda Express with these tips. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest, most tender meat. Thighs have more fat, making your restaurant meal kits moist and tasty.

A mix of cornstarch and all-purpose flour makes the chicken crispy. Cornstarch helps the batter stick, and flour adds a light crunch. This takeout meal hacks trick is key for that Panda Express crunch.

For even softer chicken, try “velveting” it before frying. This Chinese method uses egg white, cornstarch, and rice wine or vinegar. It makes the chicken silky and juicy, perfect for melting in your mouth.

• Fry the chicken in batches to keep the oil temperature right for crispiness.
• Use fresh, vibrant orange juice and zest for the best sauce flavor.
• Balance the orange’s sweetness with a bit of vinegar or soy sauce for a great taste.
• Let the battered chicken rest a few minutes before frying for an even coating.

Follow these tips to make Panda Express’ famous orange chicken at home. You’ll impress your family and friends with your takeout meal hacks!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Get ready to take your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken to the next level. Our serving suggestions and creative twists will make your taste buds dance. This dish is perfect for satisfying any craving.

Traditional Pairings

For a true Panda Express copycat recipe feel, serve your orange chicken with steamed white rice and fresh broccoli. The rice balances the bold flavors, while broccoli adds a fresh, healthy crunch.

Modern Serving Ideas

• Try swapping rice for udon noodles for a modern twist on this easy chicken dish.
• Wrap the sweet and sour chicken in crisp lettuce wraps for a low-carb, light meal.
• Pair the orange chicken with fried rice for a filling, complete meal.

Dietary Modifications

Make your Panda Express copycat recipe work for different diets with a few tweaks:

1. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
2. Replace white sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.

These tips let you customize your easy chicken dish to fit any diet or preference. Now, everyone can enjoy the amazing flavors of Panda Express Orange Chicken right at home.

Conclusion

Making your own Panda Express Orange Chicken is easy and rivals the real thing. This recipe lets you tweak the flavors and enjoy a meal that’s both tasty and affordable. You can make this dish in under 30 minutes, which is great for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Learning this chinese food recipes trick opens up a lot of possibilities. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, so you can have it whenever you want. Plus, you can make it fit your diet, whether you’re gluten-free or watching carbs.

Try out the panda express orange chicken recipe in your kitchen. It’s sure to wow your family and friends. It shows off your cooking skills and satisfies your cravings for this classic Chinese-American dish.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in this Panda Express orange chicken recipe?

The main ingredients are chicken thighs, flour, and cornstarch. You also need an egg, orange juice, and rice vinegar. Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sugars are also used.

How long does it take to make this homemade orange chicken?

It takes about 40 minutes to make. Prep and cooking time is under 30 minutes.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

What is the nutritional information for this Panda Express copycat orange chicken?

Each serving has 545 calories, 20g fat, 57g carbs, and 34g protein.

What makes this homemade orange chicken taste like the Panda Express version?

The taste comes from fresh orange juice and zest, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Garlic, ginger, and a mix of sweet and tangy flavors also play a part.

What techniques are used to ensure the chicken is tender and crispy?

The velveting technique makes the chicken tender. A mix of flour and cornstarch gives it a crispy coating.

Can this recipe be customized or made in advance?

Yes, you can customize it to your liking. The orange chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining.