Panda Express Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This sweet and savory Chinese-American dish has become a staple in many households, and its popularity can be attributed to its unique flavor profile and crispy texture. If you’re a fan of this iconic dish, you’re in luck because we’re about to dive into the world of cooking the perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken at home.
Understanding the Origins of Panda Express Orange Chicken
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the origins of this dish. Panda Express Orange Chicken was created by Chef Andy Kao, the executive chef of Panda Express, in the 1980s. The dish was designed to be a variation of traditional Chinese dishes, with a sweet and sour flavor profile that would appeal to American tastes. The original recipe consisted of crispy-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and sour orange sauce, served with steamed vegetables.
The Secret to Panda Express Orange Chicken’s Success
So, what makes Panda Express Orange Chicken so unique and addictive? The answer lies in the combination of crispy-fried chicken, sweet and sour orange sauce, and the perfect balance of flavors. The dish is a masterclass in texture and flavor contrast, with the crispy exterior of the chicken giving way to a tender and juicy interior, all coated in a sticky and sweet orange sauce.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook the perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken at home, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Orange sauce (see below for recipe)
- Steamed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)
For the orange sauce, you’ll need:
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large bowl for marinating chicken
- Tray or plate for coating chicken with flour and eggs
- Deep frying pan or wok with at least 3-4 inches of vegetable oil
- Slotted spoon or skimmer for removing fried chicken from oil
- Paper towels for draining excess oil
- Saucepan for heating orange sauce
- Steamer basket for steaming vegetables
Cooking the Perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the cooking process.
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Step 2: Coating the Chicken with Flour and Eggs
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, coating completely, then roll in the panko breadcrumbs to coat. Place the coated chicken on a tray or plate.
Step 3: Frying the Chicken
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fried chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon or skimmer and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Heating the Orange Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk the sauce until smooth and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until thickened and syrupy.
Step 5: Assembling the Dish
To assemble the dish, place the fried chicken pieces on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the heated orange sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Serve the chicken with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.
Tips and Variations
- For an extra crispy coating, you can chill the coated chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
- To make the dish more substantial, you can serve the chicken with steamed rice or noodles.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add more red pepper flakes or use hot sauce to taste.
- To make the dish more authentic, you can use Chinese ingredients such as Szechuan peppercorns or fermented bean paste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan with too much chicken, which can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked chicken.
- Not draining excess oil from the fried chicken, which can make the dish greasy and soggy.
- Not heating the orange sauce enough, which can result in a thin and watery sauce.
Conclusion
Cooking the perfect Panda Express Orange Chicken at home requires attention to detail and a bit of practice, but the end result is well worth the effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a dish that is both delicious and authentic. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese-American cuisine or just looking for a new recipe to try, Panda Express Orange Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household.
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-6 | 30 minutes | 20-25 minutes | 50-55 minutes |
Note: Nutrition information is not provided as it may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
What is the secret ingredient in Panda Express Orange Chicken?
The secret ingredient in Panda Express Orange Chicken is a combination of ingredients, but the key component is the use of soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar to create a sweet and savory sauce. Additionally, the use of sesame oil and ginger adds a distinct flavor to the dish. However, the exact recipe used by Panda Express is not publicly available, so it’s up to experimentation to get the flavor just right.
To replicate the flavor at home, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients and to balance the sweet, sour, and savory flavors. You can also try adding other ingredients such as garlic, green onions, or red pepper flakes to give the dish an extra boost of flavor. By experimenting with different combinations of ingredients, you can create a sauce that closely resembles the one used by Panda Express.
What type of chicken is best for making Orange Chicken?
The best type of chicken for making Orange Chicken is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken breasts are leaner and will result in a slightly healthier dish, while chicken thighs have more fat and will be juicier. You can also use a combination of both breasts and thighs for a more varied texture.
It’s essential to cut the chicken into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly. You can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar before cooking to add extra flavor. Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture, which will help the chicken brown more evenly.
How do I achieve the crispy exterior on the chicken?
To achieve a crispy exterior on the chicken, it’s essential to use a combination of cornstarch and eggs to create a crunchy coating. Dip the chicken pieces in a mixture of beaten eggs and then coat in a mixture of cornstarch, flour, and spices. This will create a crunchy exterior that will brown nicely when cooked.
When cooking the chicken, make sure to heat the oil to the right temperature (around 350°F) and cook the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding. This will help the chicken cook evenly and prevent it from steaming instead of browning. You can also try adding a small amount of oil to the pan and then swirling it around to create a crispy crust on the bottom of the pan.
Can I make Orange Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Orange Chicken in a slow cooker, but it will require some adjustments to the recipe. To make Orange Chicken in a slow cooker, brown the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Keep in mind that the sauce may not thicken as much in a slow cooker, so you can try adding a little cornstarch or flour to thicken it before serving. You can also serve the Orange Chicken over rice or noodles to soak up the sauce. This is a great option for a busy day when you don’t have time to cook.
How do I store leftover Orange Chicken?
To store leftover Orange Chicken, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
When reheating, you can try adding a little water or broth to the sauce to thin it out if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat the Orange Chicken in a pan on the stovetop or in the oven to crisp up the exterior. This is a great option for a quick and easy meal.
Can I make Orange Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Orange Chicken gluten-free by substituting the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative and using gluten-free flour or cornstarch. You can also use gluten-free sauces and seasonings to add flavor to the dish.
When shopping for gluten-free ingredients, make sure to read the labels carefully to ensure that they are gluten-free. You can also try using gluten-free flours such as rice flour or almond flour to create a crispy coating on the chicken. This is a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
How do I serve Orange Chicken?
Orange Chicken is typically served over steamed rice or noodles, but you can also serve it with steamed vegetables or as part of a stir-fry. You can also try serving it in a bowl with your favorite toppings, such as green onions, sesame seeds, or sliced almonds.
To make the dish more authentic, you can try serving it with steamed broccoli or carrots, which are commonly served with Orange Chicken at Panda Express. You can also try adding other toppings such as diced bell peppers or sliced scallions to add extra flavor and texture.