Panda Express Orange Chicken Flavorful Meal Guide

May 20, 2025 by Emma

Craving something tasty? Panda Express Orange Chicken is a favorite for a reason! In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about this flavorful dish, from the key ingredients to step-by-step cooking tips. Whether you’re a first-time cook or a pro in the kitchen, you’ll find helpful tricks, fun variations, and even storage tips. Let’s dive into making your very own delicious Orange Chicken!

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Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken

To make Panda Express Orange Chicken, you need some key ingredients. These ingredients give the dish its delicious flavor and texture:

– 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup cornstarch

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon ginger powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 1/4 cup honey

– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– Zest of 1 orange

– Vegetable oil (for frying)

These ingredients work together to make the chicken crispy and flavorful. The fresh orange juice and zest add a bright, zesty kick.

Optional Garnishes

You can add some extra touches to your Orange Chicken. These garnishes not only look nice but also enhance the flavor:

– 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced

– Sesame seeds (optional)

Adding sliced green onions brings a fresh taste. Sesame seeds can give a nutty crunch.

Nutritional Information

This meal packs a punch in flavor but also has calories. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving:

– Calories: Approximately 400

– Protein: 25g

– Carbohydrates: 50g

– Fat: 15g

This dish is hearty but serves well with veggies or rice for balance. If you want to know how to make this dish, check the Full Recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Chicken

Start by gathering your chicken thighs. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will coat the chicken and give it a nice crunch. Toss the chicken pieces in this dry mix until they are well coated. Let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time helps the coating stick better when cooking.

Making the Orange Sauce

While your chicken rests, it’s time to make the orange sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and orange zest. Mix until everything blends well. This sauce gives the chicken its sweet and tangy flavor. It’s the star of the dish, so take your time to get it just right.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pot or deep pan over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of batter. If it sizzles and rises, you’re good to go. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry them for 5 to 6 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. This step helps drain any excess oil.

Once all the chicken is fried, pour out most of the oil from the pot, leaving about a tablespoon. Add your pre-made orange sauce and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, letting it thicken a bit. Then, toss the fried chicken in the sauce. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, making sure every piece is hot and well coated. Your crispy orange chicken is now ready to serve! Enjoy it hot, garnished with sliced green onions for that extra touch.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Extra Crispy Chicken

To get that perfect crunch, use chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender. Coat the chicken well with the dry mix. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the batter stick better when frying. The longer it sits, the crisper it becomes. Fry in small batches to avoid steaming. This keeps each piece crispy and golden.

Best Practices for Frying

Heat the oil to the right temperature. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you add chicken. You can test it with a small piece of batter. Use a deep pot for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pot. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay crispy. Once fried, drain the chicken on a paper towel. This removes excess oil.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the orange flavor, use fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness. Zest an orange for extra aroma. You can also add red pepper flakes for heat. If you like a sweeter sauce, add more honey. For tang, adjust the rice vinegar. Always taste and tweak the sauce to your liking. These small changes can make a big difference in flavor. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe above.

Variations

Healthier Alternatives

You can make Orange Chicken healthier. Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts have less fat. Use air frying instead of deep frying. This cuts down on oil. You can also use a mix of orange juice and low-sodium soy sauce. This change adds flavor without the extra salt. Adding veggies like broccoli or bell peppers boosts nutrition. They add crunch and color to your meal.

Vegan or Vegetarian Versions

To make a vegan version, use tofu instead of chicken. Firm tofu works best. Press it to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes. Coat the tofu in the same batter. Fry it until golden and crispy. You can also try seitan or tempeh. These alternatives provide great texture. Use the same orange sauce to keep the flavor strong. This way, you still get that tasty orange punch!

Spicy Orange Chicken

If you love heat, try spicy orange chicken. Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the orange sauce. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños while cooking. This will give your dish a nice kick. Pair it with steamed rice to balance the spice. This will make your meal exciting and bold!

For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Orange Chicken Delight.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

Store leftover Panda Express orange chicken in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. Make sure the chicken is cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make the chicken soggy.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but it might get soggy. If you choose the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until warm.

Freezing Guidelines

You can freeze orange chicken for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for best texture. For quick meals, you can also use the Full Recipe to make a fresh batch anytime!

FAQs

Where can I buy Panda Express Orange Chicken?

You can find Panda Express Orange Chicken at any Panda Express restaurant. They serve it fresh daily. Many locations also offer online ordering. You can pick it up or have it delivered. If you want to enjoy it at home, you can try making the dish yourself. The Full Recipe is a great starting point.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour. You can use gluten-free flour blends instead. Also, choose a gluten-free soy sauce. Many stores sell this option. Always check the labels to ensure they are gluten-free.

What side dishes pair well with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken goes well with many sides. Here are some tasty options:

– Steamed jasmine rice

– Fried rice with vegetables

– Broccoli or mixed stir-fried vegetables

– Egg rolls or spring rolls

– A light salad with sesame dressing

These sides will complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken.

In this post, we explored the key ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken, shared step-by-step cooking instructions, and offered tips for perfecting the dish. We also discussed variations, like healthier and vegan options, and helpful storage techniques.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a tasty meal at home. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in flavor. Happy cooking!

$To make Panda Express Orange Chicken, you need some key ingredients. These ingredients give the dish its delicious flavor and texture: - 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon ginger powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor) - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - Zest of 1 orange - Vegetable oil (for frying) These ingredients work together to make the chicken crispy and flavorful. The fresh orange juice and zest add a bright, zesty kick. You can add some extra touches to your Orange Chicken. These garnishes not only look nice but also enhance the flavor: - 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced - Sesame seeds (optional) Adding sliced green onions brings a fresh taste. Sesame seeds can give a nutty crunch. This meal packs a punch in flavor but also has calories. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving: - Calories: Approximately 400 - Protein: 25g - Carbohydrates: 50g - Fat: 15g This dish is hearty but serves well with veggies or rice for balance. If you want to know how to make this dish, check the Full Recipe. Start by gathering your chicken thighs. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will coat the chicken and give it a nice crunch. Toss the chicken pieces in this dry mix until they are well coated. Let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time helps the coating stick better when cooking. While your chicken rests, it’s time to make the orange sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and orange zest. Mix until everything blends well. This sauce gives the chicken its sweet and tangy flavor. It’s the star of the dish, so take your time to get it just right. Next, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pot or deep pan over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of batter. If it sizzles and rises, you’re good to go. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry them for 5 to 6 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. This step helps drain any excess oil. Once all the chicken is fried, pour out most of the oil from the pot, leaving about a tablespoon. Add your pre-made orange sauce and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, letting it thicken a bit. Then, toss the fried chicken in the sauce. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, making sure every piece is hot and well coated. Your crispy orange chicken is now ready to serve! Enjoy it hot, garnished with sliced green onions for that extra touch. To get that perfect crunch, use chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender. Coat the chicken well with the dry mix. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the batter stick better when frying. The longer it sits, the crisper it becomes. Fry in small batches to avoid steaming. This keeps each piece crispy and golden. Heat the oil to the right temperature. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you add chicken. You can test it with a small piece of batter. Use a deep pot for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pot. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay crispy. Once fried, drain the chicken on a paper towel. This removes excess oil. To boost the orange flavor, use fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness. Zest an orange for extra aroma. You can also add red pepper flakes for heat. If you like a sweeter sauce, add more honey. For tang, adjust the rice vinegar. Always taste and tweak the sauce to your liking. These small changes can make a big difference in flavor. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe above. {{image_2}} You can make Orange Chicken healthier. Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts have less fat. Use air frying instead of deep frying. This cuts down on oil. You can also use a mix of orange juice and low-sodium soy sauce. This change adds flavor without the extra salt. Adding veggies like broccoli or bell peppers boosts nutrition. They add crunch and color to your meal. To make a vegan version, use tofu instead of chicken. Firm tofu works best. Press it to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes. Coat the tofu in the same batter. Fry it until golden and crispy. You can also try seitan or tempeh. These alternatives provide great texture. Use the same orange sauce to keep the flavor strong. This way, you still get that tasty orange punch! If you love heat, try spicy orange chicken. Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the orange sauce. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños while cooking. This will give your dish a nice kick. Pair it with steamed rice to balance the spice. This will make your meal exciting and bold! For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Orange Chicken Delight. Store leftover Panda Express orange chicken in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. Make sure the chicken is cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make the chicken soggy. To reheat, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but it might get soggy. If you choose the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until warm. You can freeze orange chicken for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for best texture. For quick meals, you can also use the Full Recipe to make a fresh batch anytime! You can find Panda Express Orange Chicken at any Panda Express restaurant. They serve it fresh daily. Many locations also offer online ordering. You can pick it up or have it delivered. If you want to enjoy it at home, you can try making the dish yourself. The Full Recipe is a great starting point. To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour. You can use gluten-free flour blends instead. Also, choose a gluten-free soy sauce. Many stores sell this option. Always check the labels to ensure they are gluten-free. Orange Chicken goes well with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - Steamed jasmine rice - Fried rice with vegetables - Broccoli or mixed stir-fried vegetables - Egg rolls or spring rolls - A light salad with sesame dressing These sides will complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken. In this post, we explored the key ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken, shared step-by-step cooking instructions, and offered tips for perfecting the dish. We also discussed variations, like healthier and vegan options, and helpful storage techniques. By following these steps, you can enjoy a tasty meal at home. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in flavor. Happy cooking!$