hot orange chicken panda express

How to Make Hot Orange Chicken Like Panda Express at Home

Have you ever craved that perfectly crispy, tangy, and spicy Hot Orange Chicken from Panda Express but didn’t want to wait in line or pay for delivery? You’re not alone! Panda Express has made its mark with this delicious, mouthwatering dish, but the good news is that you can recreate it in your kitchen with a few simple steps. Imagine the satisfaction of enjoying your favorite orange chicken right from the comfort of your home—without the extra calories, sodium, or cost.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make Hot Orange Chicken like Panda Express at home. From selecting the right ingredients to frying the chicken to perfection and crafting the flavorful sauce, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve in no time. Let’s get started!

Why Make Hot Orange Chicken at Home?

The Benefits of Homemade Orange Chicken

There’s something special about recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, especially when they’re as flavorful as Hot Orange Chicken. Here’s why you should consider making it yourself:

• Control Over Ingredients: You get to choose the freshest ingredients, which means no preservatives or artificial additives.
• Customizable Spice Level: Do you like your food mild or super spicy? You can adjust the heat to your exact preference.
• Cost-Effective: Skip the takeout fees. By making it at home, you save money while enjoying more servings.
• Healthier Option: Avoid excess oil and high sodium found in restaurant versions and cook it to your exact dietary needs.
• Impressive to Guests: Homemade dishes always leave a lasting impression, and this Hot Orange Chicken is sure to wow your family or friends.

Making this popular dish from scratch might seem intimidating at first, but trust me—once you get the hang of it, it’ll become a go-to meal. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting your own orange chicken is unbeatable!

What You’ll Need to Make Hot Orange Chicken Like Panda Express

Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s get prepared. Here’s everything you’ll need to gather to make your Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express style:

Ingredients for the Chicken

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are juicier, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
• Cornstarch: To coat the chicken and get that crispy, crunchy texture.
• Flour: This will help bind the coating together with the cornstarch.
• Eggs: For dipping the chicken pieces before coating.
• Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken to crispy perfection.

Ingredients for the Orange Sauce

• Fresh orange juice: The star ingredient that brings that signature tanginess.
• Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and depth to the sauce.
• Rice vinegar: For acidity and balance.
• Sugar: To balance out the acidity and create a slight sweetness.
• Garlic and ginger: These aromatic ingredients are essential for authentic flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: For that signature heat. Adjust the quantity to your liking.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce and give it a syrupy consistency.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hot Orange Chicken Like Panda Express

Preparing the Chicken

The chicken is the foundation of this dish, so let’s make sure it’s perfectly crispy and juicy.

1. Choosing Your Chicken

While you can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs, the thighs tend to deliver a juicier and more flavorful bite, which is why they’re the go-to choice for many. However, if you prefer a leaner option, feel free to go with chicken breasts.

2. Cutting the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The size of your chicken pieces is important, as you want them to cook evenly and be easy to eat with chopsticks or a fork. Aim for roughly 1 to 1.5-inch cubes. If you’re using thighs, make sure to remove any excess fat.

3. Coating the Chicken

To get that crispy, crunchy texture, you’ll need a double layer of coating. Here’s how to do it:

• In one bowl, combine cornstarch and flour.
• In a separate bowl, whisk eggs.
• Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg wash, then into the cornstarch-flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

4. Frying the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces halfway so they can fry evenly.

• Once the oil is hot, carefully drop in the coated chicken pieces in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan).
• Fry for about 4-5 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and set it on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Making the Hot Orange Sauce

Now for the sauce that will bring your chicken to life.

1. Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In a saucepan, mix together:

• Fresh orange juice (about 1 cup)
• Soy sauce (about 1/4 cup)
• Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons)
• Sugar (1/4 cup)

Stir the mixture and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. The sugar should dissolve, and the sauce should start to thicken slightly as it heats up.

2. Add the Aromatics

Once the sauce has simmered for a few minutes, add the following:

• Minced garlic (2 cloves)
• Minced ginger (1 tablespoon)
• Red pepper flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)

Stir well and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavors.

3. Thicken the Sauce

To get that signature syrupy consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the sauce while stirring. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

Now, let’s bring everything together.

1. Coat the Fried Chicken

Once your chicken is fried and crispy, pour the hot orange sauce directly over the chicken. Gently toss the chicken in the sauce to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Be careful not to break the crispy coating of the chicken.

2. Garnish and Serve

For the final touch, garnish your Hot Orange Chicken with:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Serve immediately with a side of steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. The contrast of the crispy chicken with the tangy, spicy sauce is sure to be a hit!

Nutrition Breakdown: Homemade vs. Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken

Making your own Hot Orange Chicken at home not only saves you money but can also be a healthier option. Let’s compare the nutrition of restaurant Hot Orange Chicken versus the homemade version.

As you can see, the homemade version offers a slight reduction in calories and fat, while still providing a hefty dose of protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hot Orange Chicken

To ensure your Hot Orange Chicken is perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown. Overcooking will dry out the meat and make it less flavorful.
• Not Thickening the Sauce Properly: Make sure the sauce has a thick, glossy texture before adding the chicken. If it’s too thin, it won’t stick to the chicken properly.
• Overusing the Red Pepper Flakes: While you want some heat, too many red pepper flakes can overpower the other flavors. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast for a leaner option. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which is why they’re the preferred choice.

Can I make Hot Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken separately and reheat the sauce when ready to serve. Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving for the best results.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make your Hot Orange Chicken spicier, add more red pepper flakes, or use chili paste or sriracha to give the sauce an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free flour for the coating.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Hot Orange Chicken

Making Hot Orange Chicken like Panda Express at home is easier than you might think. Not only will you have the satisfaction of recreating your favorite dish, but you’ll also enjoy a healthier, customized version. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this homemade version of the beloved dish will impress everyone. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that tastes just like Panda Express but with a personal touch!