Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

4 servings
This air fryer copycat Panda Express orange chicken is crispy chicken coated in a tangy sauce.

Ingredients

  • 1 chicken breast

    cubed

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/2 tablespoon Natures Seasoning
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 orange

    you'll need the juice and zest

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • ¼ cup white vinegar
  • ½ cup brown sugar

    packed

  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

    mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Directions

  1. 1

    In a saucepan over medium heat, add all sauce ingredients and bring to a slow boil. Once slow boiling, reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent the sauce from sticking. Let sit on warm while chicken cooks.

  2. 2

    In a mixing bowl, mix spices, flour and cornstarch.

  3. 3

    In a separate bowl whisk egg.

  4. 4

    Coat the chicken in the flour, and then dredge in egg.

  5. 5

    Return chicken back to flour and fully coat.

  6. 6

    Place breaded chicken in oil sprayed air fryer basket. Spray chicken with oil.

  7. 7

    Cook on 380 F for 10 minutes.

  8. 8

    Once all chicken is cooked, increase sauce heat to low medium and add fried chicken. Stir until chicken is completely coated.

Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

5.0(59)50 min4 servings

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Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 59 ratings

wondermomwannabe.com
5.0(59 reviews)
View original recipe

Rating Breakdown

About this Recipe

Craving that irresistible Panda Express Orange Chicken crunch but want to make it at home? This air fryer recipe delivers all the crispy, tangy flavor you love, right from your kitchen.

This recipe shines by using the air fryer to achieve perfectly crispy chicken without the need for deep-frying, resulting in a lighter yet incredibly satisfying dish. The vibrant, sticky sauce, built on fresh orange juice, soy, and a touch of spice, truly captures that signature takeout taste you've been missing.

What to Expect You'll experience tender, succulent chicken pieces encased in a golden, remarkably crispy coating. Each bite is then drenched in a glossy, sticky sauce that masterfully balances bright citrus tang with savory notes, a pleasant sweetness from brown sugar, and a subtle warmth from fresh garlic and a whisper of cayenne. It's a delightful interplay of textures and bold flavors, making it a truly satisfying meal that rivals your favorite restaurant version.

Customization & Variations The cayenne offers a gentle kick; feel free to adjust it to your preferred spice level, or omit it entirely for a milder experience. For an extra punch of citrus, you can always add more orange zest to the sauce. While chicken breast is specified, if you prefer a slightly richer flavor, you can use chicken thighs.

Serving & Context Serve this delightful orange chicken over fluffy steamed white rice or alongside some stir-fried noodles for a complete and comforting meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family treat.

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