Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken: An Incredible 5-Star Recipe

Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken is a savory and sweet family favorite that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of China. This dish boasts a delightful combination of tender chicken, a flavorful orange sauce, and a crispy coating that makes it hard to resist. If you’ve ever enjoyed this dish at Panda Express, you’ll be thrilled to learn how to recreate it at home.
Orange Chicken features a sweet and tangy sauce made primarily from fresh oranges and sugar, complemented by a hint of soy sauce and garlic. The perfect balance of flavors makes it a crowd pleaser. You can whip up a batch for dinner, and your family will be asking for seconds. Not only does this recipe showcase a fantastic blend of ingredients, but it also instills a sense of accomplishment as you create a beloved dish right in your kitchen.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll understand why making Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken at home is a must-try. We will cover the reasons you’ll fall in love with this recipe, offer a breakdown of preparation and cooking times, share a list of ingredients, provide step-by-step instructions, and give tips on how to serve your masterpiece to family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that your family will cherish. Here are some reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
1. Easy to Follow: The recipe comes with simple and clear instructions, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
2. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and tangy flavor, making it a hit at dinner time.
3. Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or sweetness according to your family’s preference.
4. Fresh Ingredients: Making this dish at home allows you to choose quality ingredients, ensuring better taste and health benefits.
5. Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for lunch the next day!
6. Satisfying Meal: The combination of crispy chicken and flavorful sauce offers a delightful dining experience that rivals takeout.
With these factors, you can see why Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that brings joy to dinner tables everywhere.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken will take approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how the time breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
These estimates can vary based on your experience level and equipment, but this framework should help you plan your cooking efficiently.

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
– Sesame seeds, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken is straightforward if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Stir well and set aside.
2. Make the Batter: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the water. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring they are well coated. Let any excess batter drip off.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. It should be hot enough to sizzle when you add a drop of batter.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the battered chicken to the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, orange juice, zest, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat, simmering for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces with the orange sauce until well coated.
8. Serve Hot: Transfer the coated chicken to a serving dish.

How to Serve

Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken is best served immediately. Here are some tips to enhance your serving experience:
1. Plating: Arrange the Orange Chicken on a large platter to make it visually appealing.
2. Garnishing: Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
3. Accompaniments: Serve with steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal. Add some stir-fried vegetables for a fresh contrast.
4. Family Style: Encourage family members to help themselves directly from the platter, creating a more communal and enjoyable dining experience.
5. Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or stovetop for best results.
By following these tips, your Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken will shine as a centerpiece at your dinner table. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the smiles it brings to your family!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide brighter flavors compared to bottled juice.
– Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature for even frying. Too hot will burn the chicken, while too cold will result in soggy coating.
– Experiment with Spices: For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating ginger or sesame oil into the sauce or marinating the chicken in garlic and ginger before battering.
– Serve with a Side: Pair with boiled rice or lo mein noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
– Garnish Creatively: Add a twist by including crispy fried shallots or additional sliced green onions on top of the dish before serving.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative! Here are some variations to consider:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian take on this dish.
2. Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Replace sugar with honey in the sauce for a distinct flavor profile that balances sweetness and richness.
3. Spicy Orange Chicken: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or mix chili paste into the orange sauce for a spicier kick.
4. Orange Chicken Bites: Instead of larger pieces, cut the chicken into smaller bite-sized portions for a fun appetizer or party dish.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: This dish can be frozen, though it’s recommended to store the chicken and sauce separately. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop over low heat.

Special Equipment

You will need some handy tools to create this delicious dish:
– Deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed skillet
– Tongs for handling the chicken
– Mixing bowls for batter and the sauce
– Whisk and measuring cups/spoons
– Thermometer to check oil temperature (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less juicy compared to thighs.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply thin it out by adding a little water or orange juice until you reach the desired consistency.
Is this dish suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The flavors are mild with a touch of sweetness that most kids enjoy.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and cornstarch as substitutes to adapt the recipe.
What can I serve with Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken?
It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or mixed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

The Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken is a delectable dish that transforms your dining table into a flavorful haven. Its combination of crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce offers a taste experience that’s hard to forget. With easy instructions and the ability to customize to your family’s taste, this recipe will soon become a family favorite. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones!

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