Craving that sweet and tangy Panda Express Orange Chicken? Now you can make this popular dish at home with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Crispy chicken bites are coated in a sticky, flavorful orange sauce that is both sweet and savory, making this homemade version just as delicious as the original!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Tender – Crispy fried chicken with a juicy, tender interior.
- Sweet & Tangy Orange Sauce – A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cold water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added depth)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the cold water to create a light batter.
Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat it in the dry flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the batter sticks well.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot (around 350°F or 175°C), add the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and set it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once the sauce begins to simmer, mix the cornstarch with water and slowly pour it into the sauce, stirring continuously. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens. If using, add the crushed red pepper flakes, orange zest, and sesame oil for extra flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Once the sauce is thickened and bubbly, add the fried chicken pieces into the pan, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly with the orange sauce. Allow the chicken to cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes so it absorbs the flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the orange chicken over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes. Garnish with extra orange zest or sesame seeds for added flair, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
- For a lighter option, serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Add a drizzle of sweet chili sauce or sriracha for an extra layer of heat.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to make the dish gluten-free.
- Baked Option – For a healthier version, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying.
- Extra Crispy – Double-coat the chicken for an extra crispy exterior by dipping it in the egg mixture and flour mixture a second time before frying.
- More Spice – Adjust the level of crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce if you prefer more heat.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Panda Express Orange Chicken is a quick and delicious homemade version of the popular takeout dish. Crispy chicken pieces smothered in a tangy, sweet orange sauce make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy this homemade version of your favorite orange chicken with every flavorful bite!