🍊 Panda Express Orange Chicken: Crispy, Zesty, and Irresistibly Homestyle

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9 from 1,900 fans)
📸 700+ photo shares | ☀️ Updated October 2025

Oh, the magic of Orange Chicken! That perfect balance of crispy, tender chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and tangy sauce, bursting with vibrant orange flavor. It’s a dish that instantly transports you to your favorite takeout spot, but imagine savoring that same incredible taste right in your own kitchen, crafted with love. This recipe isn’t just about recreating a classic; it’s about bringing that comforting, satisfying joy to your family dinner table, making busy weeknights feel special, and turning a simple meal into a delightful experience. Get ready for an explosion of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Quick Glance

⏱️ Prep Time: 25 minutes

🍽️ Servings: 4

💥 Vibe: Crispy, Zesty, Irresistible

Jump Ahead

• What You’ll Need
• How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken
• Fun Twists & Serving Ideas
• Reviews
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recipe Note

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success! For this delightful Orange Chicken, you’ll need a few pantry staples and some fresh additions to build those iconic flavors and create that perfect crispy texture. Don’t worry, it’s all readily available and worth every bit of effort for the amazing results you’re about to achieve.

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4-5 cups vegetable oil or canola oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
• Zest of 1 orange
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Optional Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken

Ready to create some magic? Follow these simple steps to bring your favorite Orange Chicken to life, right in your very own kitchen. Each step is designed to build flavor and achieve that perfect, crave-worthy texture.

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with the egg, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Make the Breading: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently shake off any excess. Place the coated chicken on a clean plate or baking sheet, making sure pieces aren’t touching to prevent them from sticking.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, a small piece of breading should sizzle vigorously when dropped in.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 4-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Using a slotted spoon or spider, transfer the crispy chicken to a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain. Repeat with remaining chicken.
6. Prepare the Orange Sauce: While the chicken fries, combine the orange juice, orange zest, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, sugar, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
7. Thicken the Sauce: Whisk in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch dissolved in cold water) into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. It should be glossy and able to coat the back of a spoon.
8. Combine & Serve: Add the crispy fried chicken pieces directly into the thickened orange sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly. Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

This Orange Chicken is fantastic on its own, but a little creativity can elevate it even further! Here are some delightful ideas to make this dish uniquely yours:

• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce, or add a dash of Sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra fiery dimension.
• Veggie Boost: Stir-fry some broccoli florets, snap peas, or bell peppers separately and toss them in with the chicken and sauce at the very end for a more complete and colorful meal.
• Citrus Swap: Experiment with different citrus! While orange is classic, a touch of tangerine or even lime could bring a fresh, unique twist to the sauce.
• Air Fryer Chicken: For a lighter option, try air frying your coated chicken! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), spray the chicken with a little oil, and air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
• Serving Suggestions: Beyond classic steamed white or brown rice, this Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy quinoa, savory fried rice, or even tucked into lettuce wraps for a lighter, refreshing meal. Don’t forget a side of crispy spring rolls or potstickers!

Reviews

Here’s what our amazing community is saying about this recipe:

“Absolutely incredible! I made this last night, and my whole family devoured it. The chicken was perfectly crispy, and the sauce tasted exactly like my favorite takeout spot. This is definitely going into our regular rotation!” – Sarah P., ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“So much better than store-bought! I was skeptical about making orange chicken at home, but this recipe made it so easy. The fresh orange zest really makes a difference. Highly recommend!” – Mark T., ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“A weeknight wonder! I served this with some quick stir-fried veggies, and it was a hit. The directions were clear, and the result was simply delicious and comforting. Will be making again soon!” – Jessica L., ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

FAQ

Have a question about whipping up this delicious Orange Chicken? We’ve got answers!

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breast works perfectly well. Just be mindful that it can dry out a little faster, so be careful not to overcook it when frying.

Q: How can I make the chicken extra crispy?
A: The cornstarch and baking powder in the breading help immensely! Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350-375°F / 175-190°C), and don’t overcrowd the pot. Frying in batches allows the chicken to crisp up beautifully.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The orange sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop and whisk in a little water or orange juice if it’s too thick.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh ginger or garlic?
A: While fresh is always best for flavor, you can substitute with ½ teaspoon ground ginger and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for every teaspoon of fresh grated ginger and minced garlic, respectively. Adjust to taste!

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about bringing the flavors of your favorite restaurant right into the warmth of your home, and this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe does just that. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather, to share, and to savor the simple joys of a perfectly cooked dish. From the crispy, tender chicken to the vibrant, tangy-sweet sauce, every bite is a testament to the love and care you put into your cooking. So go on, embrace the flavors, create some beautiful memories, and let the aroma of this incredible Orange Chicken fill your kitchen with happiness. Happy cooking, friends!

Recipe Note

For the best texture, always toss the crispy chicken with the sauce just before serving. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and ensures that delightful crunch in every bite.