Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Craving some spicy and sweet takeout? This Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) recipe is the answer! Crispy chicken pieces tossed in a tangy, fiery orange sauce make for an irresistible meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or fun gatherings, delivering standout flavors with minimal effort. Imagine tender chicken coated in a crunchy breading, drenched in a glistening, flavorful sauce with a kick of chili peppers. This easy recipe is ideal for beginner cooks and guarantees maximum satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet and spicy flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can shine.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside rice or noodles.
• Takeout Fakeout: Enjoy the flavors of your favorite restaurant from the comfort of home.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Hot Orange Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot: Necessary for achieving perfectly crispy fried chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing the batter and mixing sauces without mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for both the batter and sauce.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for safely removing fried chicken while letting excess oil drain.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp oil (for egg wash)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp white pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 orange, zest of
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 4 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
• 1 tbsp green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)

For Stir-Frying

• 2 tbsp oil (for stir-frying)
• ½ cup dried whole red chili peppers
• 6 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (for stir-frying)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breading

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and oil.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first, then coat it thoroughly with the dry mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add breaded chicken pieces to hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per batch.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
2. Whisk until smooth and bring to a simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. In a separate pan over medium heat, add oil for stir-frying along with dried whole red chili peppers and garlic.
2. After about 30 seconds, add fried chicken pieces to the pan.
3. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken while tossing gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

1. Transfer your Hot Orange Chicken to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley before serving hot!

How to Serve Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Serving Hot Orange Chicken is all about enhancing its bold flavors and ensuring your meal is complete. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice complements the spicy orange sauce perfectly, absorbing its rich flavors.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• A side of sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas adds a crunchy texture and balances the sweetness of the dish.

Offer Egg Rolls

• Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat make for a delightful appetizer that pairs well with the chicken’s fiery taste.

Serve with Chow Mein

• This stir-fried noodle dish offers a savory contrast to the sweet and spicy chicken, creating a satisfying meal.

Garnish with Green Onions

• Sprinkle sliced green onions on top of the chicken before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Provide Extra Sauce

• A small bowl of extra hot orange sauce on the side allows guests to customize their spice level and enhances each bite.

How to Perfect Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

To truly master this recipe, consider these tips that will ensure your Hot Orange Chicken turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right chicken: Using chicken thighs can provide more moisture and flavor compared to breasts.
• Prepare your station: Set up an efficient breading station to streamline the coating process, making it less messy and more organized.
• Monitor oil temperature: Keeping oil at the right temperature (around 350°F) ensures crispy chicken without being greasy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and allow for even cooking. Crowding can lead to soggy breading.
• Let it rest: After frying, let the chicken sit on paper towels briefly to absorb excess oil before tossing it in sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the number of chili peppers or red pepper flakes based on your heat preference for personalized flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Complementing your Hot Orange Chicken with side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: This savory rice dish packed with vegetables and eggs adds heartiness and texture alongside your chicken.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a light and comforting contrast to the spiciness of the chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in sesame dressing offers crunch and coolness that balances heat.
4. Spring Rolls: These light rolls filled with veggies are perfect for those who enjoy something crispy yet fresh as an appetizer.
5. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy drizzled with soy sauce gives a crisp texture that pairs well with the saucy chicken.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-rich side can absorb flavors while providing a nutty taste that contrasts nicely with sweet and spicy notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Orange Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
• Using too much oil: Overloading the frying pan with oil can lead to soggy chicken. Use just enough oil for frying without crowding the pan.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer milder dishes, don’t ignore the chili peppers. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and dried chilies according to your heat preference.
• Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Fry until golden brown and ensure you follow the recommended cook times closely.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping green onions as garnish takes away from both presentation and flavor. Always add fresh herbs for a pop of color and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Store for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and sauté the chicken for about 5 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)?

Hot Orange Chicken is a crispy chicken dish coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce, inspired by the popular Panda Express recipe.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu as alternatives if you’re looking for different protein options.

How do I make this dish less spicy?

To reduce spiciness, cut back on red pepper flakes and omit dried chili peppers from your recipe.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week before using it.

What sides pair well with Hot Orange Chicken?

Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement this dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) is not only delicious but also adaptable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re craving something spicy or sweet, this recipe allows room for creativity. Experiment with different vegetables or proteins and enjoy this fiery feast any night of the week!

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Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Satisfy your cravings for takeout with this easy Hot Orange Chicken recipe inspired by Panda Express. Featuring crispy, golden chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create restaurant-quality flavors at home. The delightful combination of chili peppers, tangy orange juice, and a hint of sweetness makes this dish irresistible. Serve it over rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup orange juice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 4 tbsp rice vinegar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• Dried whole red chili peppers and garlic for stir-frying

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by coating bite-sized pieces in a mixture of cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper. Dip in egg wash and fry until golden brown.
2. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Bring to a simmer until thickened.
3. Stir-fry garlic and dried chili peppers in oil; add fried chicken and pour sauce over it. Toss gently to coat.
4. Serve hot with garnishes like green onions and parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (170g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For less spice, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit the dried chilies. Pair with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for balanced flavors.