Easy Orange Chicken Panda Express Copycat Recipe: A Taste of the East at Home

Recipe for Orange Chicken Panda Express

Orange Chicken Panda Express is a popular dish made with crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The following recipe will show you how to make Orange Chicken Panda Express at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Add the sauce to the skillet and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
6. Serve the Orange Chicken Panda Express over rice.

Benefits:

• Orange Chicken Panda Express is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
• It is a relatively easy dish to make, and it can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
• Orange Chicken Panda Express is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Tip 1: Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.

Tip 2: Be sure to coat the chicken evenly with the cornstarch mixture before frying.

Tip 3: Fry the chicken in hot oil until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Tip 4: Make sure to whisk the sauce ingredients together before adding them to the skillet.

Tip 5: Cook the sauce until it has thickened, about 2 minutes.

Tip 6: Serve the Orange Chicken Panda Express over rice.

Conclusion:

Orange Chicken Panda Express is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the tips above, you can make a delicious Orange Chicken Panda Express at home.

Key Aspects of Orange Chicken Panda Express

Orange Chicken Panda Express is a popular dish enjoyed by people of all ages. It is made with crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The following are seven key aspects of Orange Chicken Panda Express:

• Flavor: Sweet and tangy
• Texture: Crispy and tender
• Ingredients: Chicken, orange sauce, rice
• Origin: China
• Popularity: Worldwide
• Availability: Panda Express restaurants
• Taste: Delicious

These key aspects highlight the various dimensions of Orange Chicken Panda Express, from its flavor and texture to its ingredients, origin, popularity, availability, and taste. Together, these aspects contribute to the overall appeal of this dish and make it a favorite among many people.

Flavor

The sweet and tangy flavor of Orange Chicken Panda Express is one of its most distinctive characteristics. This flavor combination is achieved through the use of a variety of ingredients, including orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and honey. The orange juice and honey provide the sweetness, while the soy sauce and brown sugar add a tangy, savory flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious and addictive flavor that is sure to please everyone.

• Sweetness: The sweetness of Orange Chicken Panda Express comes from the orange juice and honey. These ingredients add a delicious, fruity flavor to the dish.
• Tanginess: The tanginess of Orange Chicken Panda Express comes from the soy sauce and brown sugar. These ingredients add a savory, salty flavor to the dish that balances out the sweetness.
• Balance: The sweet and tangy flavors of Orange Chicken Panda Express are perfectly balanced. This creates a delicious and addictive flavor that is sure to please everyone.

The sweet and tangy flavor of Orange Chicken Panda Express is one of the things that makes it so popular. This flavor combination is unique and delicious, and it is sure to please everyone. If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, Orange Chicken Panda Express is a great option.

Texture

The crispy and tender texture of Orange Chicken Panda Express is one of its most appealing qualities. This texture combination is achieved through a combination of cooking techniques, including frying and saucing. The frying process creates a crispy outer layer, while the saucing process helps to keep the chicken tender and juicy. The result is a delicious and addictive texture that is sure to please everyone.

• Crispy outer layer: The crispy outer layer of Orange Chicken Panda Express is created by frying the chicken in hot oil. This process creates a golden brown crust that is both crispy and flavorful.
• Tender and juicy interior: The tender and juicy interior of Orange Chicken Panda Express is achieved by marinating the chicken in a flavorful sauce before frying. This helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy, even after it has been fried.
• Combination of textures: The combination of crispy and tender textures in Orange Chicken Panda Express is what makes it so delicious. The crispy outer layer provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender and juicy interior melts in your mouth.
• Enhanced flavor: The crispy and tender texture of Orange Chicken Panda Express also helps to enhance the flavor of the dish. The crispy outer layer helps to seal in the flavor of the chicken, while the tender and juicy interior absorbs the delicious sauce.

The crispy and tender texture of Orange Chicken Panda Express is one of the things that makes it so popular. This texture combination is unique and delicious, and it is sure to please everyone. If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish, Orange Chicken Panda Express is a great option.

Ingredients

The ingredients chicken, orange sauce, and rice are essential components of the popular dish Orange Chicken Panda Express. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the unique flavor and texture of this dish.

• Chicken: The chicken is the main protein component of Orange Chicken Panda Express. It is typically cut into small pieces and fried until crispy. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying contrast to the sweet and tangy orange sauce.
• Orange sauce: The orange sauce is what gives Orange Chicken Panda Express its distinctive flavor. It is made with a combination of orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and other spices. The orange sauce is sweet and tangy, with a slightly sticky consistency.
• Rice: Rice is the traditional accompaniment to Orange Chicken Panda Express. It provides a neutral base for the flavorful chicken and sauce. Rice also helps to soak up the delicious sauce.

These three ingredients come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages. Orange Chicken Panda Express is a popular choice for takeout and delivery, and it can also be easily made at home.

Origin

The origins of Orange Chicken Panda Express are closely linked to China, where similar dishes have been enjoyed for centuries. The dish is believed to have been inspired by traditional Chinese recipes, such as General Tso’s chicken, which is a popular dish in Sichuan cuisine.

• Shared ingredients: Both Orange Chicken Panda Express and General Tso’s chicken share several key ingredients, including chicken, orange peel, soy sauce, and sugar. These ingredients give both dishes their characteristic sweet and tangy flavor.
• Cooking techniques: The cooking techniques used in Orange Chicken Panda Express are also similar to those used in General Tso’s chicken. Both dishes are typically fried and then coated in a sweet and tangy sauce.
• Regional variations: While Orange Chicken Panda Express is a relatively new dish, it has quickly become a popular choice for takeout and delivery. The dish has also been adapted to suit regional tastes, with some variations using different ingredients or cooking techniques.
• Cultural significance: Orange Chicken Panda Express is a dish that has been embraced by Chinese-American culture. The dish is often served at family gatherings and celebrations, and it has become a symbol of Chinese-American cuisine.

The connection between Orange Chicken Panda Express and China is evident in the shared ingredients, cooking techniques, regional variations, and cultural significance. The dish is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of China and its influence on American cuisine.

Popularity

The popularity of Orange Chicken Panda Express extends far beyond its country of origin, China. It has become a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world, contributing to its widespread recognition and appeal.

• Global Availability: Orange Chicken Panda Express is available at Panda Express restaurants in over 20 countries, spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Its presence in these diverse regions indicates its global reach and popularity.
• Cultural Adaptation: While Orange Chicken Panda Express retains its core flavors and ingredients, it has also undergone adaptations to suit local tastes and preferences. For example, in some countries, the dish may be made with different types of chicken or with varying levels of spiciness.
• Online Presence: The recipe for Orange Chicken Panda Express has gained immense popularity online, with countless websites, blogs, and social media posts dedicated to sharing variations and cooking tips. This online presence has further contributed to its global dissemination.
• Culinary Influence: Orange Chicken Panda Express has inspired culinary creations and innovations worldwide. Chefs and home cooks alike have drawn inspiration from its unique flavor profile, experimenting with different ingredients and cooking techniques to create their own interpretations of the dish.

The widespread popularity of Orange Chicken Panda Express is a testament to its universal appeal. Its distinct flavor, adaptability, and cultural significance have made it a beloved dish enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds around the globe.

Availability

The availability of Orange Chicken Panda Express through Panda Express restaurants plays a pivotal role in the widespread popularity and accessibility of the dish. Here are a few key points to explore:

• Convenience and Accessibility: Panda Express restaurants offer a convenient and accessible way for individuals to enjoy Orange Chicken Panda Express. With over 2,000 locations worldwide, customers can easily find a nearby restaurant and order the dish for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. This widespread availability makes it a popular choice for busy individuals and families.
• Standardized Quality: Panda Express restaurants adhere to strict quality standards, ensuring that Orange Chicken Panda Express is prepared consistently across all locations. This standardization guarantees that customers can expect the same delicious and flavorful dish regardless of which Panda Express they visit, contributing to the dish’s overall popularity.
• Brand Recognition: Panda Express is a well-known and trusted brand, recognized for its quality Chinese-American cuisine. The association of Orange Chicken Panda Express with the Panda Express brand enhances its credibility and makes it more appealing to customers.

Furthermore, the availability of Orange Chicken Panda Express through Panda Express restaurants has practical implications for individuals interested in recreating the dish at home. By visiting a Panda Express restaurant and experiencing the authentic flavors, home cooks can gain insights into the preparation and ingredients used. This experience can serve as a valuable reference point when attempting to replicate the dish in their own kitchens.

In summary, the availability of Orange Chicken Panda Express through Panda Express restaurants is a key factor contributing to its widespread popularity, accessibility, and standardized quality. This availability also provides a valuable reference point for individuals looking to recreate the dish at home.

Taste

The delectable taste of Orange Chicken Panda Express is a defining characteristic that has contributed to its immense popularity. The harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors tantalizes taste buds, leaving a lasting impression on diners.

• Sweetness: The honey and brown sugar in the orange sauce lend a delightful sweetness to the dish, balancing the savory and tangy components. This sweetness appeals to a wide range of palates, making it enjoyable for people of all ages.
• Savory: The soy sauce and garlic powder in the sauce provide a savory depth of flavor that complements the sweetness. This savory element adds complexity and prevents the dish from becoming overly cloying.
• Tanginess: The orange juice and rice vinegar in the sauce introduce a refreshing tanginess that cuts through the richness of the dish. This tangy element helps to balance the sweetness and savory flavors, creating a dynamic taste experience.
• Umami: The combination of chicken, soy sauce, and oyster sauce contributes to a subtle umami flavor in Orange Chicken Panda Express. This savory and slightly salty taste enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, making it more satisfying and addictive.

The harmonious interplay of these flavors creates a taste that is both indulgent and invigorating. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with rice, vegetables, or noodles, Orange Chicken Panda Express delivers a delightful culinary experience that captivates taste buds and leaves diners craving more.

Orange Chicken Panda Express is a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds with its harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Originating from the popular Panda Express restaurant chain, this dish gained immense popularity for its unique taste and crispy texture.

The recipe for Orange Chicken Panda Express involves marinating bite-sized chicken pieces in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and spices. These marinated chicken pieces are then coated in a cornstarch batter and fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy outer layer and tender, juicy interior. The delectable orange sauce, a key component of the dish, is made with a combination of orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili peppers. The chicken pieces are then coated in this tangy and flavorful sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

The popularity of Orange Chicken Panda Express can be attributed to its irresistible taste, convenience, and affordability. It has become a favorite among people of all ages, making it a staple on the Panda Express menu. Whether enjoyed as a main course with rice or as part of a larger meal, Orange Chicken Panda Express continues to delight and satisfy taste buds worldwide.

FAQs about Orange Chicken Panda Express

Q1: What is Orange Chicken Panda Express made of?

A1: Orange Chicken Panda Express is made with bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and spices, then coated in a cornstarch batter and fried until golden brown. The chicken is then coated in a tangy and flavorful orange sauce made with orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili peppers.

Q2: What is the nutritional value of Orange Chicken Panda Express?

A2: A typical serving of Orange Chicken Panda Express contains approximately 250 calories, 12 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of protein. It is also a good source of vitamin C and iron.

Q3: Can I make Orange Chicken Panda Express at home?

A3: Yes, it is possible to make Orange Chicken Panda Express at home. However, achieving the same crispy texture and flavorful orange sauce as the restaurant version may require some practice and experimentation.

Q4: What are some tips for making Orange Chicken Panda Express at home?

A4: To make Orange Chicken Panda Express at home, marinate the chicken in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and spices for at least 30 minutes. Use a cornstarch batter to coat the chicken before frying to achieve a crispy texture. For the orange sauce, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili peppers. Cook the sauce until it thickens and coats the chicken evenly.

Q5: What are some common variations of Orange Chicken Panda Express?

A5: Some common variations of Orange Chicken Panda Express include using different types of meat (such as beef or shrimp), adding vegetables to the dish (such as broccoli or carrots), or adjusting the spiciness level of the orange sauce.

Q6: What are some popular side dishes to serve with Orange Chicken Panda Express?

A6: Popular side dishes to serve with Orange Chicken Panda Express include steamed rice, fried rice, chow mein, or egg rolls.

Conclusion

Orange Chicken Panda Express is a delectable dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. Its unique blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, coupled with its crispy texture, has made it a beloved menu item at Panda Express restaurants.

This exploration of the “recipe for orange chicken panda express” has provided insights into its origins, popularity, taste, and nutritional value. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with various side options, Orange Chicken Panda Express continues to delight diners and satisfy cravings.

Youtube Video: