"Ultimate Guide to Orange Chicken Recipes Panda Express: Create Restaurant-Style Dishes at Home"

#### Orange Chicken Recipes Panda ExpressIf you’ve ever dined at Panda Express, you’re likely familiar with their famous Orange Chicken. This dish, characte……

#### Orange Chicken Recipes Panda Express

If you’ve ever dined at Panda Express, you’re likely familiar with their famous Orange Chicken. This dish, characterized by its crispy chicken coated in a tangy and sweet orange sauce, has become a favorite among many. The good news is that you can recreate this delicious meal right in your own kitchen with a few simple ingredients and techniques. In this guide, we’ll delve into various orange chicken recipes inspired by Panda Express, ensuring you can enjoy this beloved dish without having to leave your home.

#### Ingredients for Orange Chicken

To make a delicious Orange Chicken that rivals Panda Express, you’ll need the following ingredients:

- **Chicken**: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best. Thighs provide more flavor and moisture.

- **Batter**: A mixture of cornstarch and flour is ideal for achieving that crispy exterior.

- **Eggs**: To help the batter adhere to the chicken.

- **Orange Juice**: Freshly squeezed orange juice will enhance the flavor of the sauce.

- **Soy Sauce**: Adds depth and umami to the dish.

- **Sugar**: For sweetness that balances the tanginess of the orange.

- **Garlic and Ginger**: Freshly minced for added flavor.

- **Red Pepper Flakes**: Optional, for a bit of heat.

#### Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and flour, then dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash before coating it in the flour mixture. This double-dipping technique is key to achieving that crispy texture. Heat oil in a deep pan or wok and fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

#### Making the Orange Sauce

While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the orange sauce. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sugar to dissolve. For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce while stirring continuously until it thickens. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference by adding more sugar or orange juice.

#### Combining the Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is ready, it’s time to bring them together. In a large skillet or wok, add the fried chicken pieces and pour the orange sauce over them. Toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. If you like, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick and garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

#### Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Orange Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside fried rice for a complete meal. You can also add steamed vegetables, like broccoli or bell peppers, to create a more balanced dish. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings for Panda Express but also allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences.

#### Conclusion

Recreating the iconic Orange Chicken from Panda Express at home is easier than you might think. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy this delicious dish any time you want. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a batch of Orange Chicken that will make you feel like a chef in your own kitchen!