Culinary adventure: embark on a journey to create panda express’s famous orange chicken with this step-by-step recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Panda Express’s beloved Orange Chicken, now made with love in the comfort of your own kitchen. This meticulously crafted recipe promises an explosion of sweet, tangy, and umami notes that will transport your taste buds to culinary heaven.

The Secret to Crispy Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken: Enhance the chicken’s flavor by marinating it in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and cornstarch. This marinade tenderizes the chicken and allows it to absorb the aromatic flavors.
2. Double Coat the Chicken: For an extra crispy exterior, double-coat the marinated chicken in cornstarch. This creates a protective layer that locks in the chicken’s juices and gives it a satisfying crunch.

The Sauce: A Symphony of Flavors

1. Sweet and Tangy Glaze: Whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to create a vibrant glaze that coats the chicken in a delectable sauce.
2. Zest and Zing: Elevate the sauce with freshly grated orange zest and a touch of red pepper flakes for a vibrant citrusy and spicy kick.

Cooking the Orange Chicken

1. Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet and fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Sauce it Up: Pour the prepared sauce over the fried chicken and stir gently to coat. Cook for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and caramelize.

Finishing Touches

1. Garnish with Orange Slices: Cut fresh oranges into thin slices and garnish the Orange Chicken for a vibrant and refreshing touch.
2. Serve with Steamed Rice: Pair the Orange Chicken with fluffy steamed rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most tender and juicy results.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken, as this will prevent it from getting crispy.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.
• Serve the Orange Chicken immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Variations on the Orange Chicken Recipe

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a generous amount of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Orange Chicken: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a sweeter and more flavorful glaze.
• Pineapple Orange Chicken: Toss in fresh pineapple chunks to the sauce for a tropical twist.

A Culinary Journey into Orange Chicken History

The origins of Orange Chicken can be traced back to the Sichuan province of China. It was originally known as “Orange Peel Chicken” and was made with dried orange peels. The dish evolved over time, and the use of fresh orange juice and a sweet and tangy sauce became more prevalent. Panda Express introduced Orange Chicken to American audiences in the 1980s, and it quickly became a beloved menu item.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Orange Chicken is a moderate-calorie dish that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The chicken is a lean protein source, and the vegetables in the sauce provide vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to note that the dish is also high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.

Orange Chicken Recipe Panda Express: Final Thoughts

This Orange Chicken Recipe Panda Express is a culinary masterpiece that will satisfy your cravings for a sweet, tangy, and crispy Chinese dish. With its easy-to-follow instructions and delicious flavors, you can now enjoy the taste of Panda Express in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may not be as tender as thighs.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have rice vinegar?
A: You can substitute rice vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.