Indulge in authentic flavors: copycat panda express orange chicken recipe for perfection!

Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure as we unveil the secrets behind Panda Express‘s legendary orange chicken recipe. This copycat version will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and tantalizing orange sauce, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Making the Orange Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

Assembling the Orange Chicken:

1. Return the fried chicken to the skillet with the orange sauce.
2. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes more, or until the chicken is heated through.

Tips for Success:

• For a crispier chicken, double-coat the chicken in the cornstarch and flour mixture.
• Use a high-heat oil for frying, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken.
• If the orange sauce is too thick, add a little more orange juice or chicken broth.

Variations:

• Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice to the orange sauce for extra flavor.
• Stir in some chopped green onions or red bell peppers to the chicken before serving.
• Serve the orange chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information:

One serving of orange chicken contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fat: 15 grams

Mastering the Art of Orange Chicken:

• Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out exactly like the original.
• Experiment with different ingredients and proportions to find what suits your taste.
• Pay attention to the cooking times and temperatures to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.

A Feast for the Senses:

The orange chicken recipe copycat Panda Express is a culinary masterpiece that will delight the senses. Its crispy texture, juicy interior, and tantalizing orange sauce will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to create a dish that will impress family and friends alike.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for cornstarch?
A: You can substitute all-purpose flour for cornstarch, but the chicken may not be as crispy.

Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce to taste.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the orange chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Q: What are some other dipping sauces that go well with orange chicken?
A: Sweet and sour sauce, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce are all great options.