DIY Orange Chicken with Orange Sauce: Taste the Iconic Dish without Leaving Your Kitchen

Craving that irresistible Panda Express orange chicken with its tantalizing orange sauce? Look no further! This in-depth guide will empower you to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home, delivering an authentic taste experience that will transport you to the beloved Chinese food chain.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat them in the cornstarch mixture.

Fry the Chicken:

1. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain the chicken on paper towels.

Make the Orange Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, orange zest, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce and stir to coat.
2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.
• If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can also pan-fry the chicken using 1/2 inch of oil.
• Serve the orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice or broccoli.

Variations:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use different types of citrus juices, such as grapefruit or lemon, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Grill or bake the chicken for a healthier alternative to frying.

Troubleshooting:

• My chicken is tough: Ensure that you don’t overcook it. Fry the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, but not charred.
• My sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a longer period until it thickens. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken the sauce further.
• My chicken is not crispy: Make sure that the cornstarch mixture is fully coated on the chicken before frying. Also, fry the chicken in hot oil to ensure a crispy exterior.

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Triumph

With a little patience and these step-by-step instructions, you can now savor the authentic taste of Panda Express orange chicken in the comfort of your own home. This culinary triumph will impress your family and friends, leaving them craving for more.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely before using it.

2. How long can I store the orange chicken?
The orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat.

4. What are some healthy side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
Steamed rice, broccoli, or a side salad are all healthy and delicious side dishes to serve with orange chicken.

5. Can I use a different type of oil to fry the chicken?
Yes, you can use other types of oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, to fry the chicken.