Panda Express Orange Chicken is a delightful dish featuring crispy, golden-brown chicken coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. This recipe is perfect for comforting meals after a long day or for cozy weekends at home.
What Is Panda Express Orange Chicken?
This dish is a signature item from Panda Express, a well-known Chinese-American fast-food chain. It consists of lightly battered and fried chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious orange glaze, combining sweet, tangy, and umami flavors with hints of ginger, garlic, and red chili flakes. This recipe captures the essence of this beloved meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Orange Chicken
To recreate this dish successfully at home, consider the following tips:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their flavor and juiciness. Chicken breast can also be used for a leaner option.
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For that signature crunch, fry the chicken twice. The first fry cooks the chicken, while the second fry achieves a golden-brown, crispy texture.
- Use Fresh Orange Zest: Incorporating fresh orange zest into the sauce enhances the flavor significantly, making it a crucial ingredient.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red chili flakes. For a spicier version, add sriracha or more chili flakes.
- Cornstarch is Essential: Including cornstarch in the batter ensures a light and crispy coating while thickening the sauce for a glossy finish.
Recipe Variations
While the classic flavor is widely loved, you can adapt the recipe to cater to different tastes and dietary needs:
- Healthier Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the chicken pieces at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, lightly spraying them with oil for crispiness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with cauliflower or tofu. Coat the tofu in cornstarch and pan-fry until crispy before adding the sauce.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix for the batter.
- Honey-Orange Sauce: Replace sugar in the sauce with honey for a more natural sweetness.
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour for the batter and a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol in the sauce.
How to Serve Panda Express Orange Chicken
This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- With Rice: Steamed jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the flavorful orange sauce.
- Fried Rice: Pair it with classic fried rice for an authentic takeout experience.
- Noodles: Serve over lo mein or stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal.
- Vegetable Sides: Balance the richness of the chicken with steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas.
- As an Appetizer: Offer smaller, bite-sized pieces on toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings.
How to Store and Reheat Orange Chicken
For any leftovers, follow these storage and reheating tips:
- Storage: Keep the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Heat the sauce separately in a pan and toss the chicken in it just before serving.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I Make Orange Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving to keep the chicken crispy. - Is Orange Chicken Spicy?
The spice level is mild, mainly from the red chili flakes. Adjust the heat to your preference by adding or reducing the chili flakes. - What Does Orange Chicken Taste Like?
It offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, with fresh orange notes complemented by soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. - Can I Use Store-Bought Sauce?
While convenient, homemade sauce ensures fresher flavors and allows you to control sweetness and spice levels. - Why Is My Chicken Not Crispy?
Chicken may lose its crispiness if left in the sauce for too long. Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to maintain its crunch.
Closing Thoughts
Panda Express Orange Chicken is a flavorful dish that’s simple to recreate with basic ingredients. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy making it and feel free to share your variations and tips!
