Quick And Easy Orange Chicken Recipe: How To Make It Like Panda Express

Craving the delectable flavors of Panda Express’s iconic Orange Chicken? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of recreating this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary journey, ensure you have the following ingredients at hand:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• Cornstarch: For breading the chicken
• All-purpose flour: For a crispy coating
• Egg: As a binder for the breading
• Vegetable oil: For frying
• Orange juice: Freshly squeezed for a vibrant flavor
• Soy sauce: To add a salty and savory depth
• Brown sugar: For a sweet and caramelized touch
• Rice vinegar: To balance the sweetness and add a hint of acidity
• Sesame oil: For a nutty and aromatic flavor
• Ginger: Freshly grated for a spicy kick
• Garlic: Minced for a savory base

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
• In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch and flour.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg.
• Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then roll them in the flour mixture to coat evenly.

2. Fry the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Make the Orange Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

• Add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce and stir gently to coat.
• Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the pan from the heat and garnish with fresh orange zest and chopped green onions.
• Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water or orange juice to thin it out.
• Serve the Orange Chicken immediately for a crispy and flavorful experience.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Honey Orange Chicken: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the orange sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Teriyaki Orange Chicken: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce in the orange sauce for a more savory and sweet flavor.

The Science Behind the Recipe

The crispy coating on the chicken is achieved through a process called the Maillard reaction. This reaction occurs when proteins and sugars react with heat, creating a golden-brown crust. The tender and juicy interior of the chicken is due to the moisture being retained during the frying process.

The History of Orange Chicken

Orange Chicken is a relatively new dish, originating in the United States in the 1980s. It is believed to have been inspired by the classic Chinese dish General Tso‘s Chicken. However, Orange Chicken has a sweeter and more tangy flavor due to the use of orange juice and brown sugar.

Takeaways: A Culinary Triumph

With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped to create the perfect Orange Chicken with Orange Sauce right in your own kitchen. This delectable dish is sure to become a family favorite and impress your dinner guests. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely before breading and frying.

2. What if I don’t have a wok?
You can use a large skillet or frying pan instead of a wok. Just make sure it is large enough to accommodate the chicken and sauce.

3. Can I make the Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Orange Chicken ahead of time. However, the crispy coating will soften over time. To reheat, simply warm the Orange Chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

4. What can I serve with Orange Chicken?
Orange Chicken is traditionally served over steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables or a side salad.

5. Can I make the Orange Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the Orange Chicken gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and cornstarch.