Amazing Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Delight

The tantalizing aroma of crispy chicken enveloped in a glossy orange glaze is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe captures the essence of that beloved dish, delivering all the sweet and tangy goodness right to your kitchen. pumpkin coffee cake recipe festive pumpkin cupcakes Imagine biting into that crunchy exterior, only to be met with tender, juicy chicken inside—pure bliss!

As a child, I remember begging my parents for takeout from Panda Express after soccer practice, my stomach growling louder than the referee’s whistle. Fast forward a few years, and here I am, recreating that same magic in my own kitchen! Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish has become my go-to for satisfying cravings and impressing guests alike.

Ingredients for Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps achieve that gorgeous caramelized color. caramel apple cheesecake bars.
• Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar brings balance to the sauce’s sweetness.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch!

End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”

How to Make Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels—nobody wants soggy chicken here!

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix together some cornstarch and flour before coating each piece of chicken. Make sure they’re well-coated; this will give them that desirable crunch!

Step 3: Frying Time

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (you can test by dropping in a small piece of chicken), carefully add your coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per batch.

Step 4: Making the Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and orange juice along with minced garlic. Stir until it bubbles and thickens slightly—your taste buds are already thanking you!

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is crispy and your sauce is bubbling away like it’s auditioning for a soap opera, it’s time to combine them! Toss your fried chicken into the saucepan until each piece is generously coated.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer to plates or bowls and drizzle with extra sauce if desired. Serve alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for an authentic experience that’ll wow everyone!

Now you’re ready to dig in! With every bite of this Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe, you’ll find yourself transported back to those cherished takeout nights without ever leaving your home. Enjoy!

Perfecting Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken pieces while you prepare your sauce. Sear the chicken until golden, then toss in the sauce for that sticky goodness. Finally, serve over rice or with veggies for a complete meal.

Add Your Touch to Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a twist! You can also experiment with different spices like ginger or garlic to add depth. Don’t shy away from adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.

Storing & Reheating Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave covered to keep moisture, or warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

It’s all about finding that perfect balance of sweet and savory—one time my buddy tried to use honey instead of sugar, and let’s just say we turned our dinner into dessert!

FAQs About Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

What is Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe?

The Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe is a homemade version of the popular dish served at Panda Express. It features crispy chicken pieces tossed in a tangy orange sauce, combining sweetness and heat. This recipe allows you to recreate that beloved flavor at home using simple ingredients. You can enjoy this dish with rice or noodles, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

How do I make the sauce for Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken?

To create the sauce for your Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken, start by combining orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and garlic in a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it thickens slightly. You can adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more sugar or red pepper flakes if desired. This flavorful sauce brings your chicken to life and enhances the overall dish.

Can I use other proteins in the Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use other proteins in your Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute shrimp, tofu, or even pork for a different twist. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the protein selected to ensure everything cooks thoroughly.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken?

When serving your Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken, consider pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal. Additionally, you could serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or spring rolls for added texture and flavor. These sides complement the sweet and savory notes of the chicken beautifully.

Conclusion for Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

In conclusion, the Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy this favorite dish at home. With its crispy chicken and flavorful orange sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. delightful chocolate orange dessert By following simple steps and using everyday ingredients, you can replicate that restaurant taste easily. Enjoy making this delightful recipe and impress your family with your culinary skills!

Print

Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe, featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a luscious sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen. Satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe that brings back nostalgic takeout memories!

• Author: Samantha Rivera
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
2. In one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken piece well.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; fry chicken in batches for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, orange juice, and garlic. Heat until bubbling and slightly thickened.
5. Toss fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 635mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg