Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Craving some spicy and sweet takeout? This Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) is the answer! Crispy chicken pieces tossed in a tangy, fiery orange sauce make for an irresistible meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, offering a symphony of textures and tastes. With tender chicken coated in crunchy breading and drenched in a flavorful sauce with a kick of chili peppers, this easy recipe is ideal for beginner cooks. It requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 40 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout.
• Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Crispy Texture: The crunchy coating on the chicken adds an irresistible texture to every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Hot Orange Chicken, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan or wok: Ideal for achieving crispy chicken with even heat distribution.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in preparing the batter and sauces without spilling.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping and removing hot chicken safely from oil.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Coating

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp oil (for egg wash)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp white pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 orange, zest of
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 4 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
• 1 tbsp green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)

For Stir-Frying

• 2 tbsp oil (for stir-frying)
• ½ cup dried whole red chili peppers
• 6 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (for stir-frying)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated (optional)

How to Make Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and oil for the egg wash.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash first, then coat it with the cornstarch mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
3. Remove cooked chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
2. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add two tablespoons of oil.
2. Add dried chili peppers and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add minced garlic and optional ginger; stir-fry for another minute.
4. Pour in the prepared orange sauce followed by fried chicken pieces; toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
2. Enjoy your hot orange chicken with rice or noodles!

How to Serve Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Serving Hot Orange Chicken is just as important as preparing it. The right presentation and accompaniments can elevate this dish, making it a standout on your dining table.

Pair with Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice is a classic choice that soaks up the delicious orange sauce, balancing the spice perfectly.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hot orange chicken.

Serve with Egg Rolls

• Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide an extra crunch and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.

Top with Green Onions

• Garnish your hot orange chicken with sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.

Use a Side of Chow Mein

• Flavorful chow mein noodles stir-fried with vegetables complement the dish and make for a satisfying meal.

Include Sweet and Sour Sauce

• A small bowl of sweet and sour sauce on the side can enhance the flavors further and cater to different taste preferences.

How to Perfect Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

To achieve that perfect takeout-style hot orange chicken at home, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate chicken: Allowing chicken pieces to marinate in soy sauce enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Double fry for crunch: Frying the chicken twice ensures an extra crispy texture that won’t get soggy.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate the flavor profile of your sauce significantly.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance.
• Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes like green onions or sesame seeds; they add visual appeal and flavor.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve your hot orange chicken right after cooking when it’s still crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Hot Orange Chicken pairs well with various side dishes that can balance out its spicy sweetness. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fried Rice
   A hearty fried rice packed with veggies complements the dish while adding texture.
2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the orange chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A cool cucumber salad with vinegar dressing refreshes your palate between bites of spicy chicken.
4. Wontons
   Crispy wontons filled with cream cheese or vegetables provide delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
5. Miso Soup
   This warm soup is light yet flavorful, making it a soothing addition to your meal.
6. Sesame Noodles
   Noodles tossed in sesame oil create a nutty, savory side that pairs beautifully with the sweet sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat), it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Opt for chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. Avoid using skin-on pieces, as they can lead to greasiness.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is crucial for achieving that crispy coating. Don’t skip it, and make sure to coat your chicken thoroughly.
• Overheating the oil: If the oil is too hot, it can burn the coating before the chicken cooks through. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of chicken first.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: The sauce should coat the chicken nicely. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer until thickened for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring garnish options: Fresh green onions not only add color but also enhance flavor. Make sure to garnish your dish before serving!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hot Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it has cooled down completely before sealing.

Freezing Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label your container with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking often to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)?

Hot Orange Chicken is a homemade version of a popular takeout dish featuring crispy chicken pieces tossed in a spicy and sweet orange sauce inspired by Panda Express.

Can I customize the spice level?

Yes! Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or dried chili peppers according to your taste. You can make it milder by using less spice.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Hot Orange Chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch instead of regular flour.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but make sure to thaw them completely before cutting and cooking for even results.

What can I serve with Hot Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) is an exciting blend of spicy and sweet flavors that will delight your taste buds. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preference, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and impress your family or friends with this tasty takeout favorite made right at home!

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Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Hot Orange Chicken, a delightful takeout favorite you can easily recreate at home. This Panda Express Copycat recipe features tender, crispy chicken pieces enveloped in a zesty orange sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. In just under an hour, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether served over fluffy rice or alongside crunchy vegetables, this dish promises to impress with every bite. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginner cooks to master, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dining experience.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup orange juice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• Dried chili peppers
• Red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper in one bowl; whisk eggs and oil in another.
2. Coat chicken pieces first in egg wash, then in the cornstarch mixture.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan; fry chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes per batch).
4. In a saucepan, mix orange juice, zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch; stir until thickened.
5. Stir-fry dried chili peppers and garlic in a skillet; add the orange sauce and fried chicken; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot with sliced green onions on top.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, consider double frying the chicken. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of red pepper flakes. Fresh garlic and ginger enhance flavor significantly.