Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: A Deliciously Close Approximation
Craving that iconic Panda Express Orange Chicken? You're in luck! While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can get surprisingly close with this delicious at-home version. This recipe focuses on achieving that signature sweet and savory flavor profile and crispy texture.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust accordingly for your needs.
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes (thighs are key for juiciness!)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions: Prepare the Chicken
- Marinate (Optional): For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 30 minutes before proceeding. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds depth.
- Dredge: In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Add the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
- Fry: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on a wire rack.
Instructions: Make the Orange Sauce
- Whisk: In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, honey, orange zest, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer: Pour the sauce into a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
- Combine: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the orange chicken over rice.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra visual appeal and flavor.
- Consider serving with a side of Panda Express's other popular dishes for a complete meal experience.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken; this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a big difference in the flavor of the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Make extra sauce! It's delicious on its own or with other dishes.
This recipe provides a fantastic home-cooked alternative to Panda Express's famous dish. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us – let's see your amazing Orange Chicken!
