Panda Express Orange Chicken

Introduction

Panda Express is a popular fast-food chain known for its delicious Asian-inspired dishes, and one of its most iconic offerings is the Orange Chicken. This recipe provides a way to recreate the beloved dish in the comfort of your own home. Bursting with flavor, the sweet and tangy orange sauce paired with crispy chicken pieces makes this dish a favorite for many. Let’s dive into the details of this fantastic recipe!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cornstarch: 1 cup for coating the chicken
Salt: 1 teaspoon for seasoning the chicken
Egg: 1 large, beaten
Vegetable Oil: For frying

For the Orange Sauce:
Orange Juice: 1 cup, preferably fresh
Sugar: 1/2 cup
Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon
Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 teaspoon, minced
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for added heat
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the batter adhere better.

Step 2: Marinating

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, egg white, and cornstarch. Ensure that each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Breading

In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This will create the batter for frying the chicken.

Step 4: Coating the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, coat each piece in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour before frying.

Step 5: Frying the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Making the Sauce

In a separate pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Then add orange juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, stirring well.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the sauce while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

Step 8: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken pieces into the thickened sauce and toss well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated in the orange sauce.

Step 9: Garnishing

Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice or alongside steamed vegetables.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Options

You can use boneless skinless thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.

Note 2: Orange Juice

Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought can be used in a pinch.

Note 3: Sweetness

Adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce to your taste, depending on how sweet you prefer the dish.

Note 4: Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for best results.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, orange juice, and ginger helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes for best results.

Breading

To achieve a crispy texture, coat the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying. This creates a protective layer that helps to lock in moisture during the cooking process.

Double Frying

Double frying the chicken ensures an extra crispy exterior. After the first fry, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before frying again helps achieve optimal crispiness.

Stir-Frying

When preparing the sauce, stir-frying the ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and scallions in a hot pan releases their aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall dish.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins such as tofu, shrimp, or beef, but cooking times may vary.

What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

Can I freeze orange chicken?

Yes, you can freeze orange chicken for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze it without the sauce and add the sauce after reheating.

Conclusion

The Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe is an excellent way to recreate a beloved favorite in the comfort of your own home. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, this dish brings bold flavors to your table. Whether served over rice or alongside vegetables, it promises a delightful meal that will satisfy your cravings for takeout. Try it out and enjoy a delicious homemade version that the whole family will love!

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