How To Make Panda Express’ Orange Chicken: A Step-by-step Guide For The Perfect Dish!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Panda Express’s beloved Orange Chicken with this comprehensive guide. We’ll unravel the secrets behind its crispy texture, vibrant orange sauce, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. Join us on this culinary journey as we delve into the intricacies of making this iconic dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients for the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Ingredients for the Orange Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinating the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

2. Frying the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces and fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Drain the chicken on paper towels.

3. Making the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

4. Thickening the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the boiling sauce, whisking constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

5. Combining the Chicken and Sauce

Return the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.

6. Serving

Serve the Orange Chicken immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfection

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture before frying.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• To make a vegetarian version, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.

Variations

• Honey Orange Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the orange sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or Sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving for added crunch.

Wrap-Up: Elevate Your Home Cooking with Panda Express Flavors

With this detailed guide, you’ll be able to recreate the authentic flavors of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken in your own kitchen. Impress your friends and family with this crispy, flavorful dish that will leave them craving for more.

What You Need to Know

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before marinating.

2. How long can I store the Orange Chicken?
Store the Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make the Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Orange Chicken ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

4. What are some good side dishes to serve with Orange Chicken?
Steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables are all great side dishes for Orange Chicken.

5. How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Add more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce or less brown sugar for a less sweet sauce.