Original Orange Chicken by Panda Express
Original Orange Chicken by Panda Express
Why order takeout when you can make your own orange chicken at home? This recipe features crispy chicken coated in a zesty orange sauce, and it’s easy to make in your own kitchen!
Ingredients Explained
| Ingredient | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | 2 lb (905 g) | Juicy and tender protein base |
| Salt | 1 tbsp | To season the chicken |
| White pepper | 1 tsp | Gives mild heat |
| Cornstarch | 1 cup (125 g) | For batter coating |
| Flour | 3 cups (375 g) | Used with cornstarch for crispy texture |
| Egg | 1 | Binds the batter |
| Water | 1½ cups (360 mL) | To make batter consistency |
| Oil | 2 tbsp + 6 cups | For batter and deep frying |
| Chili flake | ¼ tsp | Adds mild heat |
| Garlic | 1 tbsp, minced | Aromatics for sauce |
| Ginger | ½ tsp, minced | Gives warmth to sauce |
| Sugar | ¼ cup (50 g) | For sweetness |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup (55 g) | Depth of flavor |
| Orange juice | ¼ cup (60 mL) | Citrus tang |
| White vinegar | ¼ cup (60 mL) | Balances sweetness |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Salty umami base |
| Sesame oil | 1 tsp | Finishing flavor touch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1×1-inch cubes and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix salt, white pepper, cornstarch, and flour.
- Add egg, water, and 2 tbsp oil to make pancake batter consistency.
- Coat chicken in batter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat 6 cups oil in a deep pan to 350°F (180°C).
- Fry chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and crisp. Set aside.
- In another pan, heat 1 tbsp oil and sauté chili flakes, garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds.
- Add sugars and orange juice; stir to dissolve.
- Add vinegar and soy sauce. Mix well.
- Mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water. Add to pan to thicken sauce.
- Stir in fried chicken until well coated with sauce.
- Top with sesame oil and serve hot.
Nutrition Data (Per Serving)
| Calories | 520 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh orange juice for a more vibrant flavor.
- Chill the battered chicken before frying for a crispier texture.
- You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs stay juicier.
- For spicier orange chicken, increase red chili flakes or add sriracha to the sauce.
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