The Ultimate Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Copycat – Sweet, Spicy & Irresistible!

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe (Better Than Takeout!)

Craving that iconic Panda Express orange chicken but want to make it at home? This easy Panda Express copycat orange chicken recipe delivers all the sweet, tangy flavor you love with crispy fried chicken coated in that signature orange chicken with Panda Express sauce taste. Perfect for yummy family meals or as a standout dish for your next dinner for parties!

Our version teaches you how to make orange chicken that's even better than the restaurant, with options for baked, fried, or even orange chicken crockpot versions. Plus, we'll show you how to pair it with chow mein and orange chicken for the complete Panda experience at home!

Why This is the Best Homemade Orange Chicken

• 🍊 Authentic flavor - Just like the Panda Express copycat orange chicken you crave
• ⏱️ Ready in 30 minutes - Faster than delivery!
• 👨‍🍳 Simple techniques - Easy enough for weeknight chicken breast recipes
• 🌶️ Customizable heat - Make it mild or spicy
• 🍽️ Perfect for crowds - Great meal ideas for parties

Ingredients for Crispy Orange Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)

For the Easy Orange Chicken Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed best)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Chicken

1. Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces - this ensures even cooking for perfect crispy orange chicken.
2. Set up your breading station: one bowl with beaten eggs, another with cornstarch mixed with salt and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece first in egg, then coat thoroughly in cornstarch mixture.
4. Heat 1 inch of oil in a wok or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels. (For baked orange chicken option, see variations below)

Step 2: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, orange zest, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then whisk into the sauce.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens to a glossy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.
2. Garnish with additional orange zest and sliced green onions.
3. Serve immediately over rice with chow mein and orange chicken for the complete Panda Express experience!

Pro Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken Every Time

• Double fry for extra crispiness: Fry chicken once at 325°F, then again at 375°F for 1 minute
• Use fresh orange juice for brightest flavor in your homemade orange chicken
• Let sauce reduce properly - it should coat chicken without being runny
• For orange chicken and lo mein recipe combos, cook noodles while sauce thickens

Recipe Variations

1. Baked Orange Chicken (Healthier Option)

Instead of frying, toss breaded chicken pieces with 2 tbsp oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Then toss with sauce.

2. Crockpot Orange Chicken

For an orange chicken crockpot version: Add raw chicken to slow cooker with sauce ingredients (except cornstarch). Cook on low 3-4 hours. Thicken sauce with cornstarch slurry at the end.

3. Spicy Orange Chicken

Add 1 tbsp sriracha or 1 tsp chili garlic paste to the sauce for heat.

4. Orange Chicken Meal Prep

Make a double batch of sauce to use throughout the week for different easy dinner recipes for family.

Serving Suggestions

Complete your Panda Express copycat meal with:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Vegetable chow mein and orange chicken combo
• Egg rolls or potstickers
• Steamed broccoli for balance

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh is best, but you can use bottled in a pinch. Reduce sugar slightly as bottled juice is often sweeter.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in skillet to maintain crispiness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is GF.

What's the secret to the perfect sauce consistency?

The cornstarch slurry is key - add it slowly while stirring until you reach your desired thickness.

Nutrition Information

(Per serving): Calories: 420 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 12g | Sugar: 22g

Final Thoughts

This easy orange chicken recipe proves you don't need takeout to enjoy your favorite Panda Express orange chicken flavors! With crispy chicken and that signature sweet-tangy orange chicken with Panda Express sauce, it's perfect for yummy family meals or dinner for parties. Plus, with all the variations included, you'll never get bored with this versatile easy dinner recipe for family!

Pin this recipe to save for your next Chinese food craving night! 📌🍊

More Takeout Fakeout Recipes:

• Panda Express Chow Mein Copycat
• Easy Beef and Broccoli
• Homemade Crab Rangoon