Introduction

Panda Express Orange Chicken is one of the most iconic dishes offered by the popular American Chinese fast-food chain, Panda Express. This beloved dish combines crispy fried chicken pieces with a flavorful, tangy citrus sauce that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The Orange Chicken has become a staple in many households, offering an easy yet delicious way to enjoy Chinese cuisine at home.

The importance of Orange Chicken in the Panda Express menu cannot be overstated. It is a fan favorite, often the first choice for many customers. Its unique blend of flavors and textures has made it a standout item, helping to define Panda Express’s identity in the crowded fast-food market. The dish’s popularity has inspired numerous copycat recipes, allowing enthusiasts to recreate the magic in their own kitchens.

For more exciting Chinese recipes, check out this collection of Chinese Recipes from the Food Network.

History of Panda Express Orange Chicken

The origins of Panda Express Orange Chicken trace back to the creative minds behind the brand, who sought to bring a unique and appealing dish to their customers. The recipe was developed in the 1980s by Panda Express’s Executive Chef Andy Kao. The goal was to create a dish that combined traditional Chinese flavors with a twist that would appeal to the American palate.

How did it become so popular? The answer lies in its perfect balance of flavors and the convenience it offers. The dish quickly gained a loyal following due to its irresistible taste and the consistent quality provided by Panda Express. Over the years, it has maintained its status as a top seller, and its influence can be seen in the numerous copycat recipes that have emerged online. For more Chinese food ideas, explore this list of Chinese Food Ideas from BBC Good Food.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Perfecting Panda Express Orange Chicken at home can be a delightful experience. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before cooking can enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Use cornstarch: Coating the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying helps achieve that signature crispy texture.
High heat: Cook the chicken on high heat to ensure it stays crispy and doesn’t become soggy when mixed with the sauce.
Sauce consistency: Make sure your sauce has the right consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the chicken without being too runny.

Common mistakes to avoid include:

Overcrowding the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Not drying the chicken: Ensure the chicken is dry before coating it with cornstarch to achieve the best crispiness.
Burning the sauce: Cook the sauce on medium heat and stir constantly to prevent it from burning.

For more Asian chicken recipes, visit this collection of Asian Chicken Recipes from Delish.

Variations of the Recipe

Panda Express Orange Chicken is incredibly versatile, and there are several variations you can try:

Alternative ingredients: Instead of chicken, you can use tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. Both tofu and shrimp absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Healthier methods: To make a healthier version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. Coat the chicken in a light layer of olive oil and bake until crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a lower-fat alternative.
Gluten-free version: For a gluten-free recipe, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with cauliflower florets. Coat the cauliflower in a mixture of cornstarch and a bit of water before baking or air frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Panda Express Orange Chicken can be as delightful as eating it. Here are the best ways to serve this dish:

Over rice: Serve the Orange Chicken over steamed white rice or jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
With noodles: Pair it with chow mein or lo mein noodles for a hearty meal.
On a platter: Serve it on a large platter garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.

Side dishes that pair well with Panda Express Orange Chicken include:

Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, and bok choy provide a nice balance to the sweet and tangy chicken.
Egg rolls: These crispy appetizers are a perfect complement to the main dish.
Fried rice: Adding a side of fried rice enhances the meal and provides a variety of textures.

For more Chinese food ideas, explore this list of Chinese Food Ideas from BBC Good Food.

Pairing with Drinks

To complement the flavors of Panda Express Orange Chicken, consider these drink options:

Green tea: Its light, refreshing taste pairs well with the citrusy chicken.
White wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Citrus-infused water: Enhance the citrus notes of the dish with a refreshing glass of water infused with lemon or orange slices.

FAQs

What makes Panda Express Orange Chicken unique? Panda Express Orange Chicken is unique due to its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors combined with crispy fried chicken. The signature sauce, made with a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and orange zest, sets it apart from other dishes.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free? Yes, the recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients, such as cornstarch, are certified gluten-free. For a collection of gluten-free recipes, visit this list of Asian Chicken Recipes from Delish.

How to store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce can help maintain moisture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cauliflower florets or tofu. Coat them in a mixture of cornstarch and water before baking or frying to achieve a similar texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a standout dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Its perfect blend of crispy fried chicken and a sweet-tangy sauce creates a unique flavor profile that is both satisfying and memorable. This recipe not only allows you to recreate the iconic dish at home but also offers various modifications to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

The significance of this dish in the Panda Express menu highlights its popularity and appeal. By following the expert tips and tricks, exploring different variations, and pairing it with complementary sides and drinks, you can elevate your dining experience.

Authentic Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Author: l9tab
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy the signature flavors of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken with this easy-to-follow recipe that brings the popular dish right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Vegetable oil, or other neutral flavored oil, for frying

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon red chili pepper paste
1 teaspoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Frying Oil:
- Heat at least 4 to 5 inches of vegetable or other neutral flavored frying oil in a heavy stockpot or Dutch oven until it reaches 375°F.
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, black pepper, garlic salt, and onion powder.
- In a second bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Dip the chicken pieces, a few at a time, first into the milk mixture and then into the flour mixture to coat evenly.
Fry the Chicken:
- When the oil heats to 375°F, cook the chicken by carefully dropping several battered pieces at a time into the hot oil.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the batter is light golden brown.
- Lift the chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on a paper bag or paper towels to soak up the excess oil.
Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the chili pepper paste, garlic paste, and ginger paste and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the remaining sauce ingredients: soy sauce, orange zest, rice vinegar, and sugar.
- Whisk the cornstarch into the orange juice and add it to the saucepan as well.
- Stir and simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it has thickened.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked chicken with the finished sauce to coat completely.
- Garnish with green onion slices (if desired) and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crispiness, fry the chicken twice.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Chinese-American

Nutrition

Calories: 350
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg