How to Make panda express recipe for orange chicken

With crispy chicken and sticky orange sauce! So tangy, so addictive. A takeout favorite at home!

Introduction to panda express recipe for orange chicken

Did you know that 68% of Americans crave Asian takeout at least once a week, with orange chicken ranking as the #1 most ordered dish? What if you could satisfy that craving without the delivery wait or expense? The iconic sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy panda express recipe for orange chicken has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of millions, but most home cooks assume it’s too complicated to recreate. Today, I’m debunking that myth with a quick, authentic-tasting version that takes just 30 minutes from pantry to plate. This recipe delivers all the crispy texture and vibrant orange flavor you love, using simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

Panda Orange Chicken

Prep 10 minutes mins

Cook 20 minutes mins

Total 30 minutes mins

With crispy chicken and sticky orange sauce! So tangy, so addictive. A takeout favorite at home!

5 stars (1 ratings)

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Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless , skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option)
• 2 large eggs , beaten
• 1 cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
• For the Orange Sauce:
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor, about 3 medium oranges)
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ cup granulated sugar (or ⅓ cup honey for a natural alternative)
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium option available)
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger , freshly grated
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions , thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 4 Orange zest curls (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Dip chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the cornstarch mixture. For extra crispiness, let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the cornstarch to adhere better.

  Step 2: Heat the Oil

  Pour vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or wok to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil – it should bubble vigorously and brown within 30 seconds.

  Step 3: Fry the Chicken

  Working in batches (about 3-4 for best results), carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil, ensuring pieces don't touch. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Pro tip: Keep the fried chicken warm in a 200°F oven while preparing the sauce.

  Step 4: Prepare the Orange Sauce

  In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly reduced. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

  Step 5: Combine and Serve

  Toss the crispy chicken in the hot orange sauce until well coated. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and orange zest curls if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice for the authentic Panda Express experience.
  

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Nutritional Information

• Calories: 420 per serving (25% less than restaurant version)
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 24g (varies depending on sweetener used)
• Sodium: 640mg

Note: This recipe yields 4 generous servings.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform this indulgent favorite into a lighter meal with these smart swaps:

• Air fry the chicken instead of deep-frying to reduce fat content by up to 70%
• Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of sugar to lower carbs
• Substitute half the chicken with cauliflower florets for added fiber and reduced calories
• Try coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium, gluten-free option
• Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers to increase vegetable intake and nutritional value

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Shrimp Marinara Recipe or orange chicken meal with these pairings:

• Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier base
• Pair with steamed edamame for an authentic Asian restaurant experience
• Create a homemade “bowl” with cucumber salad and pickled vegetables
• Add a side of vegetable spring rolls for a complete takeout experience
• For special occasions, accompany with a chilled Riesling or jasmine tea

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan when frying (reduces temperature and creates soggy chicken)
• Skipping the cornstarch rest period (results in coating that falls off)
• Overheating the orange sauce (causes it to become too thick or bitter)
• Using bottled orange juice (contains preservatives that alter the authentic flavor profile)
• Adding sauce too early (soggy, not crispy chicken results)

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize freshness and convenience with these storage strategies:

• Store sauce and chicken separately in airtight containers (keeps chicken crispy for up to 2 days)
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days (sauce maintains peak flavor for 48 hours)
• Freeze uncooked coated chicken for up to 1 month (perfect for meal prep)
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes rather than microwave for best texture
• Prepare sauce up to 3 days ahead and store refrigerated for quick weeknight assembly

Conclusion

This 30-minute panda express recipe for orange chicken delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum flavor. By using fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you’ve mastered a takeout classic that’s healthier, more affordable, and customizable to your taste preferences. The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements creates a crave-worthy dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Try this recipe tonight, and I guarantee you’ll think twice before ordering takeout again!