introduction

This recipe shows how to make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home. The steps are easy and the sauce tastes bright and sweet. For a very short version, see the 3-ingredient orange chicken for a quick idea.

why make this recipe

You make this dish to get crisp chicken and a tangy orange sauce. You can cook it fast for a weeknight meal. If you want other easy options, view the easy orange chicken page for more simple ideas.

how to make Panda Express Orange Chicken

This method gives crisp pieces and a glossy orange glaze. You fry the chicken and make the sauce on the stove. For a roasted take, you can read a roasted orange chicken recipe to change the cooking step.

Ingredients :

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup sugar
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

You can also try a similar orange style in a roasted orange chicken if you want less oil.

Directions :

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Toss the fried chicken in the orange glaze until evenly coated.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

how to serve Panda Express Orange Chicken

Serve this orange chicken with white rice or steamed vegetables. You can also place it on a bed of lettuce for a light meal. Try a simple side like baked ranch chicken for a second protein at a party.

how to store Panda Express Orange Chicken

Let the chicken cool to room temp. Put it in an airtight box. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer bag and use in 2 months. Reheat in a pan to keep the crust crisp.

tips to make Panda Express Orange Chicken

Dry the chicken well before you coat it. This helps the cornstarch stick.
Fry in small batches so the oil stays hot.
Stir the sauce as it cooks to stop burning.
Toss the chicken in the sauce just before you serve to keep it crisp.

variation (if any)

Make it spicy: add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Bake instead of fry: toss coated pieces on a sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) until crisp.
Add more citrus: use orange zest in the sauce for a strong orange flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dark meat like thigh for this recipe?
A: Yes. Thigh meat stays juicier. Cut it to bite size and cook as directed.

Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: Cook it a bit longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water and stir until it thickens.

Q: Can I air fry the chicken?
A: Yes. Spray the pieces with oil and air fry until crisp, then toss in the sauce.

Q: Is this recipe gluten free?
A: Use gluten free soy sauce and check other labels. The rest is gluten free.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Cool the sauce and keep it in the fridge for two days. Reheat before use.

Panda Express Orange Chicken