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
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a large bowl, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch, ensuring they’re fully covered.
- Dip the coated chicken into the beaten eggs, then coat again with cornstarch for an extra crispy texture.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
- 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
- In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken with the orange sauce until evenly coated.
- 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