What To Know
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- With this foolproof recipe, you can now recreate the mouthwatering flavors of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.
- When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Panda Express’s iconic Orange Chicken, now recreated in the comfort of your own home. With this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of this beloved dish, empowering you to savor its crispy texture and tangy sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
#1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, and flour. Toss to coat evenly.
#2. Fry the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
#3. Make the Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
#4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Add the fried chicken to the sauce and stir to coat.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
#5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the Orange Chicken with fresh orange zest or sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- For extra crispy chicken, double the amount of cornstarch.
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as steamed broccoli or jasmine rice.
Variations
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds to the sauce.
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce to the sauce.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the sauce.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Orange Chicken (without rice) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
Conclusion: Embark on Your Culinary Adventure
With this foolproof recipe, you can now recreate the mouthwatering flavors of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen. Impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece, and enjoy the satisfaction of mastering a restaurant favorite.
FAQ
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs tend to take longer to cook.
2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the sauce mixture before cooking.
3. Can I freeze Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Orange Chicken. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven.
