If you’ve ever craved that crispy, tangy, and utterly addictive Chinese-American favorite from Panda Express, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe. This dish brilliantly balances sweet and zesty orange flavors with perfectly crispy chicken pieces, giving you that iconic restaurant taste right in your own kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, mastering this orange chicken recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of flavors and textures starts with a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the juicy chicken breast and crispy cornstarch coating to the bright, vibrant orange sauce that brings it all together.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Boneless and skinless for easy, bite-sized pieces that cook evenly.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: The secret to achieving that irresistible crispy coating without heaviness.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken, creating a perfect crust.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For frying the chicken to a golden, crunchy finish.
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best): Provides natural sweetness and authentic citrus flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds the salty umami punch to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Enhances the sauce’s sweetness and helps with caramelization.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Gives a slight tang that brightens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Offers warmth and subtle spice, elevating the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you love a bit of heat.
How to Make Homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by warming your vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This oil will be the key to frying your chicken to that mouthwatering golden crispiness that defines orange chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating
Coat each chicken cube first in cornstarch, then dip them into the beaten egg. This two-step process ensures every piece has a crunchy, flavorful shell after frying, locking in tenderness and juiciness inside.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to your hot skillet. Fry them until they’re beautifully golden and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove them and set aside to keep warm while you make the irresistible sauce.
Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce
In the same skillet, combine the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and optional red pepper flakes. Bringing this mixture to a gentle simmer lets all the flavors meld into a vibrant, glossy sauce.
Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce
Return the fried chicken to the skillet and toss it thoroughly in the luscious orange sauce. This ensures every crispy bite is perfectly coated and bursting with citrusy flavor.
Step 6: Let the Sauce Thicken
Allow everything to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step thickens the sauce so it clings tempting to the chicken, creating a sticky, glossy finish that’s pure comfort food magic.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade orange chicken hot off the stove, ideally with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up all that wonderful sauce. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your own take on this restaurant favorite!
How to Serve Homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for a little crunch and a pop of color. These garnishes not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but add layers of flavor and texture that complement the tangy sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
Classic steamed white rice or jasmine rice is the perfect companion, balancing the bold flavors and soaking up the orange sauce beautifully. Alternatively, fried rice, vegetable stir-fry, or simple steamed broccoli make great side options that turn this meal into a full feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve orange chicken over cauliflower rice for a lighter option, or pile it high in lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld snack. You can also drizzle some extra sauce on the plate and garnish with edible flowers or finely sliced chilies for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the orange chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for tasty next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked orange chicken by placing it in heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers. For best quality, consume within 1 to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy later without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to bring back some crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the coating. Adding a few drops of oil while reheating helps restore that fresh-fried texture and keeps the sauce vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same cooking steps for equally delicious results.
Is fresh orange juice necessary?
Fresh orange juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor, offering brightness and a natural sweetness that bottled juice often lacks. However, if you’re in a pinch, high-quality store-bought juice can work too.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a mild warmth that balances well with the sweetness. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference or omit entirely if you prefer it mild.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari and ensuring your cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free, you can enjoy this Homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe without gluten worries.
What’s the best way to get crispy chicken without deep-frying?
Pan-frying in a good amount of oil, as in this recipe, gets fantastic crispiness without a deep fryer. Just keep the oil hot and don’t overcrowd the pan, so each piece fries evenly and crisps up beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you try this Homemade Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe at home. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that make recreating this beloved takeout dish a joyous experience. Once you taste it fresh from your own kitchen, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again!
