Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: An Amazing Ultimate Guide

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish that many people adore. This incredible recipe captures the essence of the famous fast-food favorite, allowing you to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors from the comfort of your home. Imagine biting into crispy chicken pieces coated in a luscious orange sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings joy to family gatherings, dinner parties, or cozy nights in.
If you’ve ever craved the bold flavors of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is designed for everyone—from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. It is straightforward to prepare, ensuring that even kitchen beginners can impress their loved ones. With its perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of spice, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
In this article, we will break down the amazing aspects of the Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe, including why you’ll love it, preparation and cooking times, a comprehensive list of ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the cooking process. By the end, you’ll not only have a delicious meal ready to serve but also the knowledge to recreate this gem any time you desire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is beloved by many for several reasons. Here are just a few:
1. Quick and Easy: The recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Crispy Texture: The chicken is coated in a light batter that becomes beautifully crispy when fried.
3. Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy orange sauce is a flavor explosion that complements the chicken perfectly.
4. Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your taste preferences.
5. Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
6. Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they reheat well and still taste delicious the next day.
With these highlights, it’s easy to see why the Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing the Panda Express Orange Chicken will take approximately 30-45 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 15-25 minutes
These times may vary slightly depending on your kitchen skills and equipment, but this estimate should serve as a good guideline for your cooking adventure.

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cold water
– Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

– 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon minced ginger
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken is effortless if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add cold water, whisking until the batter is smooth and thick.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the battered chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
7. Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, add the cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
9. Serve Immediately: Ensure that the chicken is well coated in the sauce before serving.

How to Serve

To truly enjoy the Panda Express Orange Chicken, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Serving Style: Serve the orange chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
2. Garnish: Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for a pop of color and flavor.
3. Side Dishes: Pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a light salad to balance the meal.
4. Presentation: Use a colorful plate to enhance the visual appeal of the dish, making it more inviting for guests.
5. Beverage Pairing: Consider serving with iced tea or a light Asian beer to complement the flavors.
With these tips, you can create a memorable dining experience centered around this incredible Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the joy of cooking!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest will enhance the flavor of the sauce significantly.
– Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
– Serve Immediately: For the crispiest chicken, serve the dish right after combining the chicken with the sauce.
– Experiment with Pairings: Try serving the chicken with different sides, such as lo mein or steamed broccoli, to mix things up.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe! Here are a few variations to inspire you:
1. Healthier Version: Bake the chicken instead of frying for a healthier option. Coat with the same batter and place on a baking sheet.
2. Orange and Pineapple: Add some diced pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and cornstarch to cater to gluten sensitivities.
4. Add Veggies: Stir in bell peppers or snap peas into the sauce for added color and nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftover Panda Express Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

You will need the following tools to make this dish successfully:
– Deep skillet or frying pan for frying the chicken
– Mixing bowls for preparing the batter and sauce
– Whisk for mixing the batter
– Slotted spoon for removing the chicken from the oil
– Saucepan for preparing the orange sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat before tossing with the chicken.
What can I serve with this dish?
This orange chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

The Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. With its crispy chicken and zesty orange sauce, it’s a meal that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious results!