If you’ve ever craved the bold, tangy, and crispy taste of Panda Express Orange Chicken, you’re not alone. This iconic dish has won hearts worldwide with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The good news is that you don’t have to visit a restaurant to enjoy it. With our authentic copycat recipe, you can recreate this popular dish right in your own kitchen—complete with the crispy golden brown chicken pieces and that irresistible orange sauce.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through every detail, from selecting the best ingredients to achieving that perfect crispiness using different cooking methods, including the air fryer, deep fryer, and stovetop. Whether you’re a home cook or a food enthusiast, this recipe will elevate your cooking skills while letting you enjoy your favorite Panda Express meal anytime.
The Origins of Panda Express Orange Chicken
The Panda Express Orange Chicken we love today was created in 1987 by Chef Andy Kao, who sought to introduce a unique Chinese-American dish that would appeal to a wide audience. Inspired by the classic sweet and sour chicken, this dish was crafted to have a tangy orange sauce with hints of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes for extra depth of flavor.
Over time, Orange Chicken became the signature dish of Panda Express, dominating menus and inspiring numerous copycat recipes. Its combination of crispy battered chicken coated in a sweet, spicy, and citrusy sauce makes it an undeniable favorite among fast-food lovers.
Why You Should Make Orange Chicken at Home
Making homemade orange chicken gives you complete control over ingredients, taste, and freshness. You can adjust the sweetness, spice level, and crispiness to match your preferences. Plus, our restaurant-style orange chicken recipe is free of unnecessary preservatives, making it a healthier alternative without compromising flavor.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
You need a balance of crispy battered chicken and rich orange sauce to achieve the signature taste and texture. Here’s what you need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, white pepper, salt, and baking powder. Add the beaten egg and water to form a smooth batter. Toss the chicken pieces in the batter until fully coated.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer, wok, or skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F/175°C).
- Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring they don’t stick together.
- Fry in batches for 4-5 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
- In a small saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and honey.
- Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Mix cornstarch and water, then pour into the sauce to thicken it.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce reaches a glossy consistency.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken in the Sauce
- Add the fried chicken into the saucepan with the orange sauce.
- Toss until each piece is fully coated.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Panda Express-style orange chicken over steamed white rice, fried rice, or chow mein. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of restaurant-quality presentation!
Tips for Making the Best Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
- For Extra Crispiness: Double-fry the chicken pieces by frying them once, resting for a minute, then frying again for 30-60 seconds.
- For a Spicier Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or chili crisp oil.
- For a Healthier Version: Use an air fryer instead of deep frying. Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the orange sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Why Make Orange Chicken at Home?
While Panda Express Orange Chicken is undoubtedly delicious, making it at home gives you the freedom to customize flavors, control ingredients, and enjoy a healthier alternative. Plus, when you follow our Pro Fast Food Recipes, you get restaurant-quality results every time.
Whether you’re preparing a family meal or impressing guests, this homemade copycat recipe guarantees mouthwatering flavors in every bite. Skip the takeout and bring the authentic Panda Express experience straight to your kitchen!
Conclusion
With this easy Panda Express Orange Chicken copycat recipe, you can enjoy the crispy, tangy, and sweet flavors of your favorite takeout dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you choose to deep-fry, air-fry, or pan-fry, this recipe delivers authentic taste and perfect crunch every time. By using fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can recreate this iconic dish with a homemade touch.
Skip the takeout, impress your family, and indulge in a delicious, homemade version of Orange Chicken today! For more restaurant-style recipes, visit Pro Fast Food Recipes and explore our collection of mouthwatering dishes.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts work well too. Just be sure not to overcook them.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
4. Is this the same as General Tso’s Chicken?
Not quite! General Tso’s Chicken is spicier with a savory, umami-heavy sauce, while the orange chicken is sweeter and citrusy.
5. Can I use store-bought orange sauce?
Yes, but making the sauce from scratch ensures authentic flavors and better ingredient control.
For more delicious copycat fast food recipes, visit Pro Fast Food Recipes and discover restaurant-quality meals you can make at home!
