panda express orange chicken recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best panda express orange chicken recipe

I have been making this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe for years and it is always a hit in my house. My kids love the sweet and tangy flavor and I love that I can control the ingredients and make it healthier than takeout. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. It comes together quickly and uses simple pantry staples. The chicken stays crispy and the sauce is just the right amount of sticky and flavorful. I feel good serving this to my family because it has less sodium and no weird preservatives. Plus you can adjust the spice level to your liking. It is a crowd pleaser every time.

Panda Express Orange Chicken

4.9 from 1986 votes

Crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This homemade version is just as good as the restaurant favorite but healthier and made from scratch.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite sized pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all purpose flour
2 large eggs beaten
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp fresh ginger grated
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a shallow bowl mix cornstarch flour salt and pepper. In another bowl beat the eggs.
2Dip chicken pieces into the egg then coat with the cornstarch mixture. Shake off excess.
3Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
4In a small saucepan combine orange juice soy sauce rice vinegar brown sugar honey garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens about 1 to 2 minutes.
6Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter version you can bake the chicken at 400F for 15 minutes instead of frying. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer.

Watch Video Of How Panda Express Orange Chicken Works

This Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe is a go to in my kitchen because it is easy delicious and healthier than takeout. It is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests without a lot of fuss. I am confident you will love it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panda Express Orange Chicken

1. Can I make this orange chicken ahead of time?

Yes you can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Fry the chicken just before serving to keep it crispy.

2. How do I get the chicken extra crispy?

Use a double coating of cornstarch and make sure the oil is hot enough around 350F. Do not overcrowd the pan and let the chicken drain on paper towels.

3. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken breast works well but be careful not to overcook it. Cut it into even pieces for consistent cooking.

4. Is this recipe gluten free?

You can make it gluten free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten free flour blend in place of all purpose flour.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to bring back some crispiness.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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