panda express hot orange chicken

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Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken Recipe

Craving that sweet, spicy, and tangy goodness from your favorite takeout spot? This Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken Recipe brings the bold, zesty flavors of the restaurant right into your own kitchen. Imagine crispy, golden chicken bites coated in a sticky, fiery orange glaze that packs a punch in every bite—it’s the perfect balance of sweet citrus, savory soy, and a spicy kick of heat. Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you might never need to hit the drive-thru again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Perfection: Crunchy, golden bites of chicken coated in a thick, flavorful glaze.
Sweet & Spicy Magic: A perfect mix of bright orange flavor with a bold, spicy kick.
Takeout at Home: All the flavors of your favorite Panda Express dish, but made fresh in your own kitchen.
Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice to your liking for a milder or hotter kick.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this restaurant classic at home:

Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for frying and holding onto that delicious sauce.
Cornstarch: Helps create that crispy, crunchy coating on the chicken.
Egg: Binds the coating to the chicken for the perfect crust.
Vegetable Oil: Ideal for frying the chicken until golden and crispy.
Orange Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that’s the star of the sauce.
Orange Zest: Intensifies the orange flavor and adds a fragrant aroma.
Soy Sauce: Brings a deep umami flavor that balances the sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy note to balance the sweet and spicy flavors.
Sugar: Sweetens the sauce and helps create that sticky glaze.
Garlic: Adds a rich, savory depth to the sauce.
Ginger: Gives the dish a fresh, zesty kick.
Red Pepper Flakes: Brings the heat—add more or less depending on your spice preference.
Cornstarch Slurry: A mixture of cornstarch and water to thicken the sauce.

Note: Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together an egg and coat the chicken pieces. Dredge them in cornstarch until they’re fully coated—this is what will give you that crispy, crunchy texture once fried.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

In a separate pan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Mix a little cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 5: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

Add the crispy chicken pieces to the pan with the sauce and toss until every piece is coated in that sticky, spicy-sweet glaze.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra orange zest, chopped green onions, or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Double-Fry for Extra Crunch: If you want ultra-crispy chicken, fry the pieces twice—first at a lower temperature, then quickly again at a higher heat.
Fresh Orange Zest Is Key: Use fresh orange zest for a bold citrus punch—it makes all the difference!
Control the Heat: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, reduce the red pepper flakes or swap them for mild chili sauce.
Use Chicken Thighs: They’re juicier and more flavorful than chicken breast, making for a better bite.

How to Serve

This flavorful dish pairs perfectly with:

Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up all that sweet and spicy sauce.
Fried Rice: Add even more flavor by serving it with homemade or store-bought fried rice.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots add a healthy, crunchy contrast.
Noodles: Serve it over lo mein or stir-fried noodles for a takeout-style feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits but will reheat beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken without sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and toss in freshly made sauce.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. You can also microwave it, but be aware that the chicken might lose some of its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes! Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version of the sauce. You’ll still get all that sweet and tangy orange flavor without the heat.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breast works well if you prefer leaner meat, though it may be slightly less juicy than thighs.
How do I get my chicken extra crispy?
For the crispiest chicken, double-fry your pieces: fry once at a lower temperature, then fry again at a higher temperature for a perfect crunch.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

This Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken Recipe brings all the flavors you love from your favorite takeout order—sweet, spicy, and tangy goodness in every bite. It’s easy to make, irresistibly crispy, and perfect for any night you’re craving something bold and comforting. Enjoy your homemade takeout feast!