Go Back
–+ servings
Print Recipe
5 from 13 votes

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

This copycat Panda Express orange chicken tastes just like the restaurant version! It's also simple, flavorful, and delicious.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Chinese
Servings: 8
Author: Lil' Luna

Equipment

  • Deep Fryer

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1½ cups water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cups vegetable oil for frying

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flake
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon minced ginger
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce optional
  • 2 tablespoons water optional
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil

Instructions

  • Cube chicken and set aside.
  • Mix salt, pepper, cornstarch, and flour in a medium bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Add egg, water, and 2 tabespoons of oil until the consistency is like a batter. Add chicken to the batter and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • Heat oil in deep fryer to 350°F. Add chicken and fry until golden brown (or about 5 minutes). Remove chicken and add to a paper towel-lined plate.
  • Make sauce by adding oil to a pot and cooking on medium-high heat. Add red pepper flakes, ginger, and garlic, and cook for about 30 seconds.
  • Add brown sugar and orange juice and stir to combine. Mix in vinegar and soy sauce until combined.
  • In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Add to the saucepan and stir. Cook until sauce thickens.
  • Add chicken and stir to coat. Top with sesame oil and sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice or noodles. 

Video

Notes

STORE. Place leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 3-4 months.
  • Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat leftovers in the oven for about 10 minutes at 400°F or in a pan on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutrition

Calories: 556kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 128mg | Sodium: 1241mg | Potassium: 372mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 90IU | Vitamin C: 4.2mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 3.5mg