Unlock the secret: orange chicken recipe with panda express sauce revealed!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken with our exclusive Panda Express sauce recipe. This culinary masterpiece will transport you to the heart of Chinese cuisine, where sweet and savory notes dance harmoniously on your palate. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

To recreate the authentic Panda Express orange chicken experience, gather these essential ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the orange chicken and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Variations: Exploring Culinary Creativity

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Amp up the heat by adding an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweeter and more garlicky flavor.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken.
• Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve the orange chicken immediately for the ultimate crispy experience.

Orange Chicken and Its Culinary Cousins

Explore the diverse world of orange chicken and its tantalizing variations:

• General Tso’s Chicken: A spicy and tangy take on orange chicken, coated in a crimson sauce.
• Sesame Chicken: A sweeter and more fragrant alternative, with a generous coating of sesame seeds.
• Lemon Chicken: A refreshing twist, featuring a zesty lemon sauce instead of orange.

Healthier Orange Chicken Options

For a healthier version of this beloved dish, consider these alternatives:

• Baked Orange Chicken: Bake the chicken in an oven instead of frying it.
• Air Fryer Orange Chicken: Use an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior with less oil.
• Whole Wheat Orange Chicken: Substitute whole wheat flour for the all-purpose flour in the chicken coating.

Information You Need to Know

1. What is the secret to Panda Express’s orange chicken? Our exclusive sauce recipe, featuring a harmonious blend of orange juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar, creates the authentic Panda Express flavor.
2. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, thaw it completely before marinating and frying.
3. How do I make the orange chicken sauce thicker? Simmer the sauce for a longer period to allow the liquid to evaporate and thicken.
4. What are good sides to serve with orange chicken? Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or egg rolls are excellent accompaniments.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the orange chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.