introduction

This Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) tastes sweet, sour, and a bit spicy. It cooks fast and keeps well. If you like quick orange chicken, try a simpler version like the 3-ingredient orange chicken for a fast weeknight meal.

why make this recipe

You make this recipe to get a takeout taste at home. You control the heat and the sugar. You save money and eat fresh food. If you want another easy twist, see an easy orange chicken recipe for more ideas.

how to make Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

This dish has two parts: the fried chicken and the orange sauce. Fry the chicken until it is golden. Stir the sauce until it thickens. Mix them and serve hot. For a baked or roasted version, look at the roasted orange chicken recipe for guidance.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup cornstarch
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup orange juice
3 tbsp soy sauce
½ cup brown sugar
Dried chili peppers
Red pepper flakes
Salt and white pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Optional: orange zest, rice vinegar, sesame oil, green onions for garnish

Directions

Combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper in one bowl; whisk eggs and oil in another.
Coat chicken pieces first in egg wash, then in the cornstarch mixture.
Heat oil in a deep pan; fry chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes per batch).
In a saucepan, mix orange juice, zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch; stir until thickened.
Stir-fry dried chili peppers and garlic in a skillet; add the orange sauce and fried chicken; toss to coat.
Serve hot with sliced green onions on top.

how to serve Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

Serve the chicken over steamed white rice or fried rice. Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for color. You can also serve it with noodles or a simple green salad. Pair it with side ideas like the roasted orange chicken sides for a full meal.

how to store Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

Let the chicken cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crisp. Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

Dry the chicken pieces with a paper towel before coating.
Do not crowd the pan when frying. Fry in small batches.
Use a thermometer; oil should be about 350°F (175°C) for best crisp.
For less sugar, cut the brown sugar in half and taste.
If you like a different bake or flavor, try a different chicken dish like baked ranch chicken for another weeknight option.

variation (if any)

Make it spicy: add more red pepper flakes or fresh chiles.
Make it less sweet: reduce brown sugar or add extra vinegar.
Make it baked: coat the chicken and bake at 425°F until crisp, then toss with sauce.
Use thighs for more flavor or breasts for leaner meat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes. Thaw fully and pat dry before coating and frying.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. You can make the sauce and keep it in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat before using.

Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy when saucing?
A: Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving. Serve right away.

Q: Can I use less oil for frying?
A: You can shallow fry, but deep fry gives the best crisp. Use a high smoke point oil.

Q: Is this safe for kids who do not like spice?
A: Yes. Leave out the dried chili peppers and red pepper flakes for a mild version.

Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)