Who can resist the crispy, sweet, and tangy delight of Panda Express orange chicken? If you want to recreate this favorite dish right in your kitchen, you might wonder how to make Panda Express orange chicken.
With a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can whip up this tasty meal that rivals the restaurant version. Get ready to enjoy the amazing flavors that will make your taste buds dance and impress your family and friends.
How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken
Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is easy and fun. It’s a popular dish because of its sweet and tangy orange sauce, crispy chicken, and delicious flavors. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this tasty meal step by step.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and quicker. Here is a list of what you will need:
- 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Make sure the chicken is fresh and boneless for the best results. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer, but chicken thighs keep the dish juicy.
Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will help the chicken cook evenly and allow the sauce to coat every piece.
Next, take a bowl and whisk together the egg with a bit of water. In another bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour together. This mixture will give the chicken a crispy coating.
Dredge the Chicken
Now it’s time to coat the chicken pieces.
Start with the egg mixture, dipping each piece of chicken into it. Then roll the coated chicken in the cornstarch and flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial for getting that crunchy texture.
Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the chicken but not smoke.
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each piece for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. After frying, place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb extra oil.
Make the Orange Sauce
While the chicken is frying, it’s a good idea to prepare the orange sauce.
In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Next, add the sesame oil. This will add a nice flavor to your sauce. If you want your sauce to be thicker, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce. Stir until it thickens.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is crispy and the sauce is ready, it’s time to combine them.
In a large bowl, pour the sauce over the fried chicken. Toss everything together carefully until every piece of chicken is well-coated in the sauce. The sweet and tangy flavor will stick to the crispy chicken, making it delicious.
Garnish and Serve
Now you can serve your Panda Express Orange Chicken.
Place the chicken on a large platter and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added freshness. You can also serve it with steamed rice or fried rice on the side.
Tips for the Best Orange Chicken
Here are some tips to make your orange chicken even better:
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. This keeps the chicken crispy.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for more color and nutrition.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste.
Storing Leftover Orange Chicken
If you have any leftovers, it’s easy to store them.
Place the orange chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 days. When you want to eat it again, simply reheat it in a pan or the microwave until it’s warm.
If you plan to make a big batch, consider freezing the fried chicken and sauce separately. This way, you can enjoy fresh-tasting orange chicken later.
Variations of Orange Chicken
There are many ways to put a twist on this classic recipe. Here are a few variations you might try:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Healthier Option: Bake the chicken instead of frying it to cut down on oil.
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor.
These variations allow you to customize the dish to your liking. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find what works best for you.
Nutrition Facts of Orange Chicken
Understanding the nutrition facts can help you make informed choices. Here’s a basic overview of what you might expect in a serving of homemade orange chicken:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Keep in mind that these numbers can change based on the ingredients you use and portion sizes. Knowing this can help you enjoy the dish while being mindful of your dietary needs.
In conclusion, making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is simple and rewarding. With crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, it can be a delightful addition to your meal. Follow the steps outlined above, and enjoy a delicious homemade version of this beloved dish. Happy cooking!
The Original Orange Chicken by Panda Express
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for Panda Express orange chicken?
You need chicken, cornstarch, flour, eggs, orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and green onions for Panda Express orange chicken.
How do I prepare the chicken for orange chicken?
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then coat them in a mixture of cornstarch and flour before dipping them in beaten eggs.
What is the best way to cook the chicken?
Fry the coated chicken pieces in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to cook them in batches for even frying.
How can I make the orange sauce?
Combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a pan. Heat it until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.
Should I serve orange chicken with rice?
Yes, serving orange chicken with rice complements the dish well and absorbs the delicious sauce.
Can I make a healthier version of orange chicken?
You can bake the chicken instead of frying it and use less sugar in the sauce for a healthier option.
How do I store leftover orange chicken?
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze orange chicken?
Yes, you can freeze orange chicken. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
What sides go well with orange chicken?
Steamed vegetables, fried rice, or a simple salad pair nicely with orange chicken.