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Orange chicken has a fun and tasty history. It started at Panda Express in the 1980s. The dish grew from a mix of Chinese and American cooking. It became a favorite on the Panda Express menu. Many people love its sweet and tangy flavor.

Panda Express Orange Chicken

Indulge in the sweet and tangy goodness of Panda Express Orange Chicken right in your kitchen! Discover the fascinating history behind this beloved dish, learn how to make it from scratch with simple ingredients, and explore delicious sides to complement your meal. Whether you're a fan of classic flavors or looking to spice things up with variations, this article has everything you need. Click through for the full recipe and create your own tasty masterpiece!
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Ingredients
  

2 large chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil for frying

1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Orange Sauce:

1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

Zest of 1 orange

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon grated ginger

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.

    Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

      Make the Orange Sauce: In another pan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

        Thicken the Sauce: Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

          Coat the Chicken: Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan with the orange sauce, tossing gently to coat all the chicken evenly with the sauce.

            Finish with Sesame Oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the coated chicken and give it one final toss to mix well.

              Serve: Plate the orange chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa, garnishing with slices of orange or green onions.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4