Easy Orange Chicken Recipe – How To Make It Taste Just Like Panda Express!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken, a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds with its crispy exterior and vibrant orange sauce. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the secrets to crafting this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

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

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten egg, then roll them in the seasoned cornstarch mixture.

2. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, orange zest, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the chicken is heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Chicken:

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or orange juice.
• If the sauce is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
• Serve the orange chicken immediately for maximum crispiness.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Sweet Orange Chicken: Add an extra tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving.

Beyond the Basics:

• Orange Chicken with Broccoli: Stir-fry broccoli florets with the chicken and sauce for a healthier twist.
• Orange Chicken Tacos: Serve the orange chicken in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
• Orange Chicken Stir-Fry: Cook the chicken and sauce with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Culinary Conundrum:

Why is my orange chicken not crispy?

• The chicken may not have been fried long enough.
• The oil may not have been hot enough.
• The chicken may have been overcoated with cornstarch.

The Finishing Touch:

As you savor the tantalizing flavors of your homemade orange chicken, take pride in the culinary masterpiece you have created. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or impressing dinner guests, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression.

FAQ:

1. Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the orange chicken ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Simply store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until heated through, then add the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

2. Can I use frozen chicken to make orange chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken to make orange chicken. Thaw the chicken completely before frying it. It may take a few extra minutes to cook the chicken through.

3. What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables. You can also serve it with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet and sour sauce.