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There’s a certain warmth that fills my kitchen when I whip up a batch of homemade orange chicken. Just picture it: crispy, golden pieces of chicken coated in a glossy, sweet-and-sour sauce that strikes the perfect balance. This copycat version of Panda Express’s favorite dish allows me to indulge in that restaurant-style goodness without stepping foot outside my home.

When those takeout cravings hit, I love knowing that within an hour, I can create something far tastier and fresher right from my kitchen. Not only is this dish a feast for the taste buds, but it also brings a delightful sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of cozy evenings spent indulging in comforting flavors. So, gather your ingredients and let’s embark on this culinary adventure, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a lovely experience that satisfies both palate and soul!

Why is this Orange Chicken so irresistible?

Sweet and Tangy Glaze: Each piece of chicken is enveloped in a deliciously sticky sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, elevating every bite.

Crispy Texture: The combination of flour and cornstarch gives the chicken a satisfyingly crispy exterior, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavor without the wait.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian delight or experiment with citrus juices like grapefruit for a unique twist.

Nostalgic Comfort: This homemade version brings that favorite takeout experience right to your kitchen, creating a comforting meal that warms the heart.

Dive into making your own Orange Chicken and let the delightful flavors transport you to your happy place!

Orange Chicken Ingredients

• Here’s what you need for your delicious homemade orange chicken!

For the Chicken Coating

Large Eggs – Binds the flour and cornstarch for coating; ensure they’re beaten until blended.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the coating; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Cornstarch – Adds crispiness to the chicken coating; keep some for thickening the sauce later.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor in both the chicken and sauce.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the chicken coating.

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Use cut into 1″ pieces for even cooking; this is the star of your orange chicken dish.
Canola Oil – Ideal for frying; choose one that can withstand high heat to get that perfect crunch.

For the Sauce

Garlic (cloves, finely chopped) – Provides aromatic depth to the sauce; use fresh for the best flavor.
Ginger (finely chopped, peeled) – Adds warmth and complexity to the sauce; nicely complements the orange.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Delivers a hint of spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
Fresh Orange Juice – The main source of the signature orange flavor; opt for freshly squeezed for superior taste.
Hoisin Sauce – Sweetness and complexity are brought in by this delicious sauce.
Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Lends a sweetness and a slight heat to the mix.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides the acidity needed to balance the flavors in your sauce.
Brown Sugar – Honey can be used as a substitute for added sweetness.
Juice of 1/2 Lemon – Brightens the sauce with its fresh citrus notes.

For Serving

Scallions (thinly sliced) – Use as a garnish for color and mild onion flavor.
Cooked White Rice – Serve as the base for your orange chicken; consider cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

How to Make Orange Chicken

Dredge Chicken: Start by beating the eggs in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat each piece of chicken in the egg and then in the flour mixture, ensuring to tap off any excess.
Fry Chicken: Heat the canola oil in a deep skillet until it shimmers; test with a small chicken piece. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown, about 4-6 minutes. Drain on paper towels for a lighter texture.
Make Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat a little oil and add the chopped garlic, ginger, and red pepper. Sauté until fragrant, roughly 1-2 minutes. Whisk in the orange juice, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix a bit of cornstarch with water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Combine & Serve: Toss the crispy chicken pieces into the thickened sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated. Serve over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced scallions.

Optional: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a vibrant meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks! You can pre-dredge the chicken pieces and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; this allows the coating to adhere better for a crispier finish. Additionally, whip up the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—just give it a quick reheat on the stove (consider adding a splash of water to maintain the consistency). When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken as directed and toss it in your prepared sauce for a delightful and satisfying meal with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Orange Chicken

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Using a thermometer ensures the oil is hot enough for frying, preventing soggy chicken and yielding that perfect crispy coating.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches; overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and leads to uneven cooking. This way, each piece gets a nice golden brown exterior.

• Resting Time: Let the fried chicken drain on paper towels for a minute before tossing it in the sauce. This helps eliminate excess oil for a lighter orange chicken dish.

• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and tweak sweetness or spice levels to fit your preference. A little extra orange juice can brighten it up!

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for 3-4 days. For the best results, reheat in the oven to keep the orange chicken crispy.

What to Serve with Orange Chicken?

Transform your homemade orange chicken into a memorable meal with these delightful pairings that will tantalize your taste buds!

Fluffy White Rice: A classic accompaniment, the fluffy rice soaks up the sweet and tangy sauce, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Steamed Broccoli: Crisp and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the saucy orange chicken.
Egg Fried Rice: Infusing a touch of richness, egg fried rice complements the dish perfectly with its savory flavor and satisfying texture.
Crab Rangoon: These crispy, cream-filled dumplings add a fun, indulgent touch to your meal, balancing the sweet notes of the orange chicken.
Garlic Noodles: Rich and buttery garlic noodles bring an irresistible flavor, providing a delightful twist to your serving options.
Crispy Chow Mein: These stir-fried noodles add texture and a savory taste that harmonizes beautifully with the chicken’s sweetness.
Side Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a light contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: For a refreshing dessert, a fruit salad with oranges, berries, and mangoes pairs wonderfully with the meal, keeping the citrus theme going.
Iced Green Tea: A cool, refreshing drink that pairs exquisitely with the vibrant flavors of your orange chicken, it helps cleanse the palate.
Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and indulgent dessert, this traditional Thai delight rounds out the meal beautifully, offering a perfect balance to the savory dish.

Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! There are countless ways to customize your orange chicken experience, making it uniquely yours.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, pressing to remove moisture for better texture during frying.
Citrus Swap: Use fresh grapefruit or lemon juice instead of orange for a new twist on the flavor profile.
Heat Level: Experiment with different chili sauces—try sriracha for a bolder kick or even a sweet chili sauce for milder spice.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish safe for gluten sensitivities while maintaining its crunch.
Nuts & Seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts as a garnish to introduce extra crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
Sauce Variation: For a zesty kick, try incorporating a splash of lime juice into the sauce mixture, complementing the orange beautifully.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced pineapple into the sauce for added sweetness and a tropical twist that brightens the dish.
Asian Flair: Toss in some bok choy or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant pop of color and nutrition.

Embrace the joy of cooking by trying out these variations, turning your orange chicken into an ever-evolving masterpiece!

How to Store and Freeze Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Keep orange chicken in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating: To preserve the crispy texture, reheat the orange chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, instead of using a microwave.

Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps maintain flavor and texture.

Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe oranges for the sauce?
Absolutely! You want to select oranges that feel heavy for their size and have a slightly glossy skin. Look for bright orange color without any dark spots or blemishes. Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a big difference, so pick some that smell fragrant and sweet!

What’s the best way to store leftover orange chicken?
For optimal freshness, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay tasty for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep the orange chicken crispy for reheating, use the oven instead of the microwave.

Can I freeze orange chicken?
Definitely! To freeze orange chicken, allow it to cool completely. Place it in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to keep that delightful crispiness.

What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your sauce is too thick, just whisk in a splash of water or more orange juice until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water in a separate bowl and whisk it into the simmering sauce, allowing it to cook for a few more minutes until thickened.

Is this recipe safe for pets?
It’s important to know that the ingredients in orange chicken, such as garlic and onions, are toxic to pets like dogs and cats. If you’re considering sharing, it’s best to prepare a small portion without those ingredients and opt for cooked plain chicken instead, ensuring their safety.

What if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Very important! You can easily adjust this recipe to cater to dietary needs. Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. For a vegetarian option, use tofu instead of chicken, marinating it beforehand for additional flavor. Always check your sauces and ingredients for allergens based on your specific restrictions.