Chinese Dinner Lunch

Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken Recipe

Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

This copycat recipe for Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken combines crispy fried chicken with a spicy and tangy orange glaze. It’s perfect for recreating your favorite takeout dish at home!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste for heat)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra flavor)

Garnish:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour and set aside.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, honey, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, minced garlic, and ginger.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to a glaze-like consistency. Stir in the orange zest if using.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the prepared orange sauce over low heat.
  2. Add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Transfer the hot orange chicken to a serving platter.
  2. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  3. Serve immediately with steamed rice or fried rice.

Tips for the Best Hot Orange Chicken

  1. Crispier Chicken: Double-fry the chicken for extra crispiness. After the first fry, let the chicken cool, then fry again briefly.
  2. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to suit your heat preference.
  3. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh orange juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
  4. Make-Ahead Sauce: The orange sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat before use.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 650mg

Recreate the irresistible flavors of Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken in your kitchen with this easy and delicious recipe. Enjoy!

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