Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe


  • Author: Jasmine
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)

For the Orange Sauce:

  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

For Garnish:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. In a large bowl, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch, ensuring they’re fully covered.
  3. Dip the coated chicken into the beaten eggs, then coat again with cornstarch for an extra crispy texture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
  3. Remove the chicken with tongs or a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

  1. In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken with the orange sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Panda Express Orange Chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: Americans

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450 per serving
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Protein: 25g

Keywords: Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe