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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- 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.
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Bring to a simmer until thickened.
- Stir-fry garlic and dried chili peppers in oil; add fried chicken and pour sauce over it. Toss gently to coat.
- 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.