Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe: 7 Irresistible Secrets

Oktober 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe! It’s one of those dishes that brings back all the warm feels of my favorite takeout nights. The moment you take a bite, that crispy chicken cloaked in a sweet, tangy orange sauce just explodes with flavor! I remember the first time I made this at home; it felt like a little piece of my childhood right in my kitchen. The aroma wafting through the house had everyone flocking to the table! Trust me, with just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this beloved classic that tastes just like the restaurant version. Get ready for a delicious adventure!

Ingredients for Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)

Make sure your chicken is nice and fresh for the best flavor! The cornstarch and flour mix gives that perfect crispy coating that you’ll love. And don’t skimp on the orange juice—it’s the star of the show! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Alright, let’s dive right into making this delicious Orange Chicken! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a homemade takeout delight.

First, grab your chicken and coat those bite-sized pieces with the cornstarch and flour mixture. This step is key for that crispy texture, so make sure each piece is well-coated.
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—just enough to get that sizzle going!
Once the oil is ready, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they look irresistibly crispy!
While the chicken is frying, let’s whip up that sauce! In another pan, combine the fresh orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix it well and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Let the sauce cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want it to thicken up nicely—you’re looking for a glaze-like consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Now, here’s the magic moment! Once the chicken is perfectly crispy, drain any excess oil, and toss it into the pan with your thickened orange sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in that glorious sauce.
Finally, serve your Orange Chicken hot over a bed of rice or noodles. I promise, the combination is heavenly!

And there you have it! This recipe is not just quick, but it’s also packed with flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information for Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe is not just delightful but also provides some solid nutritional values to consider. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. Here’s what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 400
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 20g

This dish is a great source of protein thanks to the chicken, and the vibrant flavors from the orange juice and spices make it a delightful option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced meal, and you’ll be good to go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, tangy orange sauce with crispy chicken creates a taste sensation that will have you coming back for seconds!
Gluten-Free Option: With a few simple swaps, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spice level or add in your favorite veggies for a personal touch!
Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it a great choice for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this dish—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser around the dinner table!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation. It’s satisfying, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!

Tips for Success with Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Ready to make your Orange Chicken even more amazing? I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that’ll set you up for success every time!

Frying Technique: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken—this helps achieve that perfect golden crust. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken can absorb too much oil and get greasy. A good test? Drop a small piece of chicken in; it should sizzle immediately!
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Give those pieces space to get beautifully crispy!
Perfect Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on your sauce as it simmers. You want it to thicken to a glaze-like consistency, but if it gets too thick, just add a splash more orange juice or a tiny bit of water to loosen it up. Balance is key!
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to give your sauce a taste before tossing in the chicken. If you feel it needs a little more sweetness or tang, adjust the sugar or vinegar accordingly. It’s all about that perfect flavor balance!
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger and garlic makes a world of difference in flavor. Trust me, you’ll notice the depth of flavor they bring to the dish!
Garnish It Up: Consider adding some sliced green onions or sesame seeds on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor and a beautiful presentation!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious dish. Happy cooking!

Variations on Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to put your own spin on this classic Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Add Veggies: Toss in some colorful bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a boost of nutrition and flavor. You can sauté them with the chicken or add them directly to the sauce for a lovely crunch!
Spice It Up: If you like things a bit fiery, amp up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also try adding a diced jalapeño for an extra kick!
Alternative Sauces: Feeling creative? Switch out the orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist! You could also try a sweet and sour sauce or teriyaki sauce for a completely different flavor profile.
Protein Swaps: Don’t limit yourself to just chicken! This recipe works beautifully with shrimp, tofu, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Sweetness Levels: Play around with the amount of sugar to suit your taste. For a less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar or add a touch of honey for natural sweetness.
Make it Healthier: For a lighter option, try baking the chicken instead of frying it. Just coat it with the cornstarch and flour, then bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through—around 20 minutes.

These variations can help keep things exciting in the kitchen. Each tweak brings a new taste experience, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you find your perfect version of this beloved dish!

Serving Suggestions for Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

Now that you’ve whipped up this incredible Orange Chicken, let’s talk about what to serve it with to create a complete meal that’ll leave everyone satisfied! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Steamed Rice: You can’t go wrong with a fluffy bed of steamed white or jasmine rice. It soaks up that delicious orange sauce perfectly!
Fried Rice: For a fun twist, serve the Orange Chicken over a bowl of fried rice. The added veggies and egg will bring even more flavor to the table!
Noodles: Try tossing the chicken with some lo mein or rice noodles for a delightful noodle dish. The chewy noodles paired with the crispy chicken is a match made in heaven!
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add a side of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. They add color, crunch, and nutrition to your meal!
Asian Slaw: A fresh slaw with a tangy dressing is a great way to balance the flavors of the dish. The crispiness of the slaw complements the chicken beautifully!
Spring Rolls: Serve some crispy spring rolls on the side for that extra crunch! They make for a great appetizer or side dish.
Egg Rolls: These are another fantastic side that pairs wonderfully with your Orange Chicken, adding a savory touch to your meal.

Whatever you choose, these options will elevate your dining experience and make your homemade Orange Chicken feel just like a night out! Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share with loved ones—if you can resist the temptation to keep it all to yourself!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

So, you’ve made this scrumptious Panda Express Orange Chicken, and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! Proper storage is key to keeping that delightful flavor intact. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers: Once your Orange Chicken has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help lock in moisture and prevent any unwanted odors from your fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing for Later: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken! Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It should stay good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.

Now, let’s talk reheating:

Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, pop your Orange Chicken in the microwave! Just place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it from drying out), and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until heated through.
Stovetop: For the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or a little more orange juice to a pan over medium heat, toss in your chicken, and stir until it’s warmed up and saucy again. This method helps maintain that delicious glaze!
Oven: You can also reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying, and warm it up for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

With these tips, your Panda Express Orange Chicken will taste just as good the next day! Enjoy your leftovers, and don’t be afraid to get creative with them, too!

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Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.