Do you love the bold, tangy flavors of Panda Express’ Orange Chicken? You don’t have to go out to enjoy it. We’ve discovered how to make this dish right at home. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make crispy chicken and zesty orange sauce just like Panda Express.
Are you ready for a taste that’s sweet, sour, and savory? This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Panda Express Orange Chicken. It’s simple to follow, even for beginners in the kitchen. You’ll learn how to make this favorite dish in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Discover the secret recipe to prepare this meal at home
- Enjoy the bold, tangy flavors of this Chinese-American classic in your own kitchen
- Explore the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions for creating the perfect dish
- Savor the crispy, flavorful chicken and zesty orange sauce that make this dish a fan favorite
- Impress your family and friends with your homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken
Essential Ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken
To make the famous Panda Express Orange chicken at home, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need the signature orange sauce and the right chicken coating. Let’s explore the must-haves for this dish in your kitchen.
Preparing the Perfect Orange Sauce
The orange sauce is the heart of Panda Express Orange Chicken. To get that perfect flavor, you’ll need:
- Freshly squeezed orange juice
- Rice vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)
Chicken and Coating Requirements
Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into small pieces. The coating should be a light, tempura-style batter. You’ll need:
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Salt and pepper
- Beaten eggs
- Ice-cold water
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Make sure you have these kitchen tools ready for a smooth cooking process:
| Tool | Purpose |
| Wok or large skillet | For frying the chicken |
| Whisk | To mix the batter |
| Slotted spoon | To take the fried chicken out of the oil |
| Saucepan | For simmering the orange sauce |
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make the beloved Panda Express Orange Chicken in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Panda Express Orange Chicken
Want to make a copycat panda express orange chicken at home? It’s easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to prepare this meal in your kitchen.
- Get the Chicken Ready: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small chunks. Ensure they’re all the same size for consistent cooking.
- Create the Coating: Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper in a bowl. Make sure each piece of chicken is fully coated in the mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken until it’s golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain the chicken on paper towels.
- Make the Orange Sauce: Whisk together orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Let it simmer until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss and Serve: Add the fried chicken to the orange sauce and toss to coat. Serve warm, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy your homemade copycat panda express orange chicken!
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 1 lb |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| White Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Vegetable Oil (for frying) | as needed |
| Orange Juice | 1/2 cup |
| Rice Vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tsp |
Now you can make copycat panda express orange chicken at home. Enjoy the sweet, tangy, and crispy flavors of this Chinese-American dish whenever you want.
Conclusion
In this article, you’ve learned how to make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home. You now know the key ingredients and how to make the orange sauce. You can follow a simple guide to make this dish in your kitchen.
Making your own Panda Express Orange Chicken is incredibly rewarding. You’ll save money and can make it your own. You can adjust the spice, add your twist, or even use tofu or shrimp.
Enjoy making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can make it whenever you want. Impress your nearest and dearest with your culinary creations. Get ready to enjoy this recipe in your own kitchen.
FAQ
What is the secret to Panda Express Orange Chicken?
The key is the orange sauce that coats the chicken. It’s a blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This sauce brings incredible flavor to the chicken.
Can I make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home?
Yes, you can! With the right ingredients and a few steps, you can make it at home. This way, you can enjoy it without going to the restaurant.
What ingredients do I need to make Panda Express Orange Chicken?
You’ll need chicken thighs or breasts, cornstarch, and the orange sauce ingredients. These include orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
How do I prepare the orange sauce for Panda Express Orange Chicken?
To make the orange sauce, mix orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Simmer it until it thickens and the flavors blend well.
What’s the best way to fry the chicken for Panda Express Orange Chicken?
To get crispy chicken, coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying in hot oil. This makes a crunchy coating that stays crispy when tossed in the sauce.
Do I need any special kitchen tools to make Panda Express Orange Chicken?
You’ll need a wok or large skillet for frying, a saucepan for the sauce, and a slotted spoon or tongs for handling the chicken. A deep-fry thermometer helps keep the oil at the right temperature.