The Best Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

The Best Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

4 servings
This Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken is crispy, sweet, and tangy—just like your favorite takeout! Made with juicy chicken, a fresh orange sauce, and no unnecessary additives, this homemade version is healthier, fresher, and even more delicious. Perfect for serving over rice for a quick and easy meal!

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts

    diced into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper
    to taste
  • Oil for frying
  • ⅓ cup fresh orange juice

    about 2 juicy oranges

  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 1 tbsp white sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1½ tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water

    cornstarch slurry

  • Steamed white rice
  • Green onions or sesame seeds

    optional garnish

Directions

  1. 1

    Dice chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, mix chicken, egg, and cornstarch. Season with salt and pepper. Let sit in the fridge while you prepare the sauce.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, zest, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle flour over the marinated chicken and toss until evenly coated.

  4. 4

    Heat oil in a wok or deep pan over high heat. Fry chicken for 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain excess oil.

  5. 5

    Discard excess oil from the wok. Return fried chicken to the pan and pour in the orange sauce. Stir well to coat.

  6. 6

    Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.

  7. 7

    Serve immediately over steamed white rice. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!

The Best Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

The Best Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

25 min4 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving that irresistible crispy, sweet, and tangy orange chicken without the takeout guilt? This recipe brings the magic of your favorite Panda Express dish right to your kitchen, in a healthier, fresher way. Get ready to ditch the delivery and enjoy a truly satisfying meal that’s both quick and incredibly flavorful.

This homemade orange chicken stands out because it combines crispy, juicy chicken with a vibrant, fresh orange sauce made from real orange juice and zest, not a pre-made mix. You'll get all the authentic flavors you love, without any of the mystery ingredients. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes, designed to elevate your weeknight dinner routine.

Each bite delivers a delightful crunch, followed by tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce that perfectly balances sweetness with a zesty tang. The fresh orange zest brightens every mouthful, while the savory soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil add depth. It's truly a taste sensation that feels both indulgent and surprisingly fresh, promising a quick and easy meal that tastes anything but.

While chicken breast is classic, you could experiment with chicken thighs for an even juicier bite. For garnishes, feel free to swap green onions for fresh cilantro, or add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add another layer of texture and visual appeal. You can also adjust the sugar to taste for a sweeter or more tart sauce.

Serve this delicious orange chicken piping hot over fluffy steamed white rice for a complete and satisfying meal. A sprinkle of fresh green onions or sesame seeds makes for a beautiful and tasty finish, transforming a simple dish into a restaurant-worthy experience.

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