Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making *Panda Express orange chicken* at home, you’re seriously missing out! This dish has become such a favorite for so many—and trust me, it’s easy to see why! It’s that perfect blend of crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet orange sauce that just makes your taste buds dance. I remember the first time I made this; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re craving a cozy night in or looking to impress guests, this recipe will surely become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into the tasty details and get cooking!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to create this mouthwatering Panda Express orange chicken! Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender and juicy, this will be the star of the dish!
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for achieving that perfect crispy coating.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: We’ll use this for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1/2 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but store-bought works too—it’s all about that zesty flavor!
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: This adds a savory depth that balances out the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Just enough to give that classic sweet orange sauce vibe!
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten everything up.
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Because who doesn’t love garlic in their life?
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: This adds a warm spice that’s just so comforting.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: A little drizzle at the end for that nutty aroma.
- 1 green onion, chopped: For garnish and a pop of freshness!
Make sure to grab everything from this list, and let’s get ready to create some deliciousness!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your very own Panda Express orange chicken:
- First things first, take your diced chicken breast and toss it in a bowl with the cornstarch. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this is what gives it that amazing crunch!
- Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to fry, but not so hot that it splatters everywhere—trust me, I’ve been there!
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces to the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
- While the chicken is frying, grab another bowl and mix together the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. This is the sauce that’s going to take your dish to the next level!
- Once the chicken is done, pour the sauce over the crispy chicken in the pan. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken beautifully.
- Before serving, drizzle the sesame oil over the chicken and give it a good stir for that extra layer of flavor.
- Finally, garnish with chopped green onion for a fresh touch and serve it hot—enjoy!
And there you have it! This is a quick and easy way to bring that delicious restaurant experience right into your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Okay, let me tell you why this Panda Express orange chicken recipe is going to be your new go-to dish! It’s not just delicious; it’s also super convenient. Here’s what makes it a winner:
- Quick to prepare: With just a bit of chopping and frying, you can have this on the table in about 35 minutes!
- Easy to follow: The steps are straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll feel like a pro in no time.
- Flavorful and satisfying: That sweet and tangy orange sauce combined with crispy chicken is pure bliss!
- Gluten-free option available: Swap out soy sauce for a gluten-free version, and you’re all set!
- Perfect for weeknight dinners: It’s quick enough for a busy weekday yet impressive enough for guests!
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be making it again and again!
Tips for Success
To make your Panda Express orange chicken truly shine, here are some of my top tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. This ensures each piece gets crispy instead of steaming.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more sugar. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
- Use a meat thermometer: Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Let the sauce simmer: Allow the sauce to thicken nicely by simmering it for the full 5 minutes—this will enhance the flavors!
- Experiment with flavors: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or toss in some veggies like bell peppers for extra color and crunch!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to perfecting this delightful dish!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying your homemade Panda Express orange chicken, it’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional values per serving—keep in mind these figures are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
This dish packs a flavorful punch while still being a satisfying option for your meals. Just be mindful of the sugar and sodium if you’re watching those numbers. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect *Panda Express orange chicken*? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and juiciness to your dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste. Both work great!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine and heat just before serving. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep that crispy texture.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious twist.
With these tips, you’ll be all set to whip up the most delicious orange chicken that even the pros would envy!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s chat about some of the ingredients in this Panda Express orange chicken recipe and how you can mix things up if needed!
- Chicken: While I love using chicken breast for its lean quality, you can absolutely use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just make sure to cook them until they reach 165°F (74°C).
- Cornstarch: This is key for that crispy coating. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
- Vegetable oil: I prefer vegetable oil for frying, but feel free to use canola or peanut oil too. They all work wonderfully!
- Orange juice: Freshly squeezed juice is ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will do. Just check for added sugars if you’re watching your intake!
- Soy sauce: For a gluten-free version, tamari is a fantastic substitute. It has a similar taste without the gluten!
These simple swaps can help you customize the recipe to fit what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Panda Express orange chicken, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! To store them, just let the chicken cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals later on!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them in a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or a little more orange juice to keep things moist and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through and that crispy texture is revived. Avoid using the microwave if you can; it tends to make the chicken soggy. With these steps, you’ll be savoring that amazing flavor all over again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up your incredible Panda Express orange chicken, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal that will have everyone raving! My go-to is a fluffy bowl of steamed white rice—it’s the perfect canvas to soak up that sweet and tangy sauce. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try some fried rice instead! The added veggies and protein will complement the orange chicken beautifully.
Another fantastic option is a side of sautéed broccoli or snap peas. Not only do they add a pop of color to your plate, but they also bring some crunch and freshness to balance out the rich flavors of the dish. And don’t forget about egg rolls or spring rolls for a fun appetizer that ties everything together. With these sides, you’ll create a delightful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
Print
Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This is a simple recipe for Panda Express-style orange chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, coat chicken with cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Pour the sauce over the fried chicken in the pan.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Drizzle sesame oil and stir well.
- Garnish with chopped green onion.
Notes
- Serve with rice for a complete meal.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
- You can use chicken thighs for more flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: panda express orange chicken recipe
