Orange Chicken is a beloved dish, recognized for its sweet and tangy flavor profile, crispy texture, and effortlessly satisfying taste. From its inception as a fast-food staple at Panda Express, this dish has garnered a massive following, delivering comfort and indulgence to countless fans. The beloved Chicken has migrated from the bustling fast-food scene to home kitchens, encouraging home cooks to recreate this iconic dish in a way that brings the authentic taste without stepping out the front door. The Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken replicates the restaurant’s obsession-worthy experience, allowing you to indulge in this delightful treat whenever you want.
Description about Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
This Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe imitates that tantalizing sweet and spicy glaze that is the hallmark of the original dish. Imagine juicy, fried chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious orange sauce with a hint of garlic, ginger, and a mild kick from the red pepper flakes. From its bright citrus notes to the comforting crunch of battered chicken, it caters to both casual weeknights and celebratory occasions alike. More than a recipe, this copycat version gives you the opportunity to customize ingredients according to your tastes, dietary preferences, or what you have on hand, making it an incredibly versatile option for meals.
Ingredients about Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
List of ingredients with measurements
- Chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts – 1 pound
- All-purpose flour – ¾ cup
- Cornstarch – ½ cup
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Egg – 1
- Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
- Chilled sparkling water – ½ cup
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced
- Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon
- Brown sugar – ¼ cup
- Granulated sugar – ¼ cup
- Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce – ¼ cup
- Orange juice – ½ cup (fresh-squeezed is preferred)
- Orange zest – 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch (for thickening the sauce) – 1 tablespoon
- Water (for thickening the sauce) – 1 tablespoon
- Cooked rice, for serving
Optional ingredient substitutions
- Chicken: You could substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Sweeteners: For even healthier alternatives, maple syrup or honey can be used instead of brown or granulated sugar.
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier sauce, or add Sriracha or chili paste for additional heat.
- Citrus alternative: While orange juice is traditional, you could experiment with tangerine or even a mix of lemon and lime juice for a citrusy twist.
How to Make Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Directions
Creating a delicious Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken may seem daunting at first, but it’s a process that can be broken down into manageable steps. Below, you will find detailed instructions that guide you from battering the chicken to serving it on a plate.
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start your orange chicken adventure by making the batter. In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Make sure to whisk these dry ingredients well to combine them thoroughly. Next, crack an egg into the bowl and slowly whisk in ½ cup of chilled sparkling water alongside 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. The stirring motion should achieve a smooth consistency that is free of lumps. This batter will coat the chicken and provide that much-loved crispiness after frying.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
With your batter ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Cut 1 pound of chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to the bowl of batter and fold it gently until each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This refrigeration helps to adhere the batter to the chicken during frying, ensuring that the coating stays intact.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Now for the method that transforms your battered chicken into crispy golden pieces. In a wok or deep frying pan, pour in enough oil to reach a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, a small drop of batter should sizzle immediately upon contact. Working in batches, carefully add the battered chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-6 minutes per batch until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Start the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the orange sauce. In a separate skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger along with ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for 30-60 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic and ginger are fragrant but not burnt, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Step 5: Finish Adding Ingredients to the Sauce
Once the garlic and ginger are fragrant, it’s time to amp up the sauce. Stir in ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, ½ cup of orange juice, and ¼ cup of soy sauce. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugars dissolve and everything is combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer until it bubbles slightly.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
To achieve that signature orange sauce consistency, you’ll need to thicken it. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the simmering sauce, continuously whisking until everything combines well. Allow the sauce to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Now comes the exciting moment where you bring the two pieces of your masterpiece together. Add the crispy fried chicken to the sauce and toss gently with a spatula or tongs until each piece is well coated in the luscious orange sauce. Once combined, you can remove the skillet from heat, and the Orange Chicken is ready to serve!
How to Serve Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
Best ways to serve Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
When it comes to serving your Copycat Orange Chicken, the classic way is to dish it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, providing a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The rice acts as a neutral base that absorbs the delicious sauce, complementing the sweetness of the dish while balancing out the heat from the red pepper flakes. You can opt for white rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice for a heartier option.
Serving suggestions or pairings
For an elevated dining experience, consider adding steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy alongside the chicken. These veggies not only enhance the color of your plate but also contribute a healthy crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the oranges. For an extra flair, garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro to add a burst of freshness. You might also want to serve it with a side of egg rolls, chow mein, or a light cucumber salad for a complete meal reminiscent of a Chinese takeout spread.
How to Store Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
Proper storage methods
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare due to its deliciousness), it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their taste and texture. Allow the orange chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making sure to separate the chicken from any sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Tips for reheating or freezing
For reheating, you can either microwave the chicken or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. If you prefer, you can freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to a month; however, be mindful that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To reheat frozen chicken, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before following the skillet or microwave method to ensure even heating.
Tips to Make Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
Common mistakes to avoid
While making Orange Chicken appears straightforward, a few pitfalls can lead to less-than-ideal results. One common mistake is frying the chicken at too low a temperature, which can result in greasy chicken rather than crispy, golden-brown pieces. Ensure your oil is hot enough to achieve that desired crunch. Additionally, be cautious not to let the garlic burn when sautéing for the sauce, as it can impart a bitter flavor that compromises the dish.
Helpful tips for better results
To elevate your Orange Chicken even further, consider letting the batter rest for a bit before using it; doing so can enhance the coating’s adherence. Additionally, when frying, work in small batches. Not only does this prevent overcrowding, but it also ensures that the oil temperature doesn’t drop drastically. Lastly, if you wish to infuse even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for a couple of hours before battering – doing so injects more umami goodness into the chicken.
Variation of Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
Suggested variations or twists on the recipe
While the traditional Orange Chicken is iconic and immensely satisfying, there are numerous ways to tailor this recipe to fit different taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For a healthier take, consider using air-fried chicken instead of deep-frying. You can simply coat the chicken with the batter and arrange it in a single layer on an air fryer basket, cooking until crispy.
Additionally, you could swap the orange juice for another fruit juice, such as mango or pineapple, which would lend a tropical twist to the dish. Whether you’re searching for a twist on flavors or striving for a healthier version, the choices are abundant!
Adjustments for dietary preferences
For those who are vegetarian or vegan, tofu can serve as a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. Simply cut firm tofu into bite-sized cubes, press it to remove excess moisture, and batter it just as you would poultry. For a lower-carb version, consider using cauliflower florets coated in the same batter. The process remains the same, and the final result is just as delightful.
FAQs
What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?
If your Orange Chicken isn’t turning out as expected, trace back through the steps to identify the issue. Ensure that your oil is sufficiently heated, as low oil temperature may lead to soggy chicken. If the sauce isn’t the right consistency, whisk a little more cornstarch with water and add it to simmering sauce until it thickens as desired. If the flavor isn’t balanced, you can adjust sweetness or acidity by adding sugar or a splash of vinegar accordingly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Making this dish ahead of time is possible, but consider the impact on texture. The chicken retains its crispiness best when served immediately after being coated in the sauce. Therefore, it’s recommended to leave frying and saucing until just before meal time for the best results. If you must prep ahead, fry the chicken and store it separately from the sauce, reheating both before serving.
What can I substitute for ingredients?
Ingredient substitutions are widely permissible in this recipe. For example, corn starch can be substituted with arrowroot powder, and alternative sweeteners like agave syrup can replace sugar if desired. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce can aid those monitoring their sodium intake. Lastly, if you have a citrus allergy, lemon or lime juice can stand in for the orange juice in the sauce, albeit with a different flavor profile.
With careful attention to detail and a love for cooking, creating a Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken that truly satisfies is absolutely within reach. Enjoy diving into this delicious homemade version as you bring the vibrant flavors of the restaurant right to your dining table.
