Name: Indulgent Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Made Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 large eggs (for battering and coating); 1 cup cornstarch (ensures a crispy texture; can substitute with flour if needed); 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor); ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium helps control saltiness); ½ cup brown sugar (adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with honey); 2 garlic cloves (minced for aromatic flavor); red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm plate of orange chicken—especially when that first bite hits your taste buds with a perfect blend of sweet and savory goodness. I often find myself reminiscing about those evenings cracking open a takeout box from Panda Express, but lately, my craving for this classic dish sparked a desire to recreate it in my kitchen. After a bit of experimenting, I crafted a Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe that not only captures that iconic flavor but does so with the convenience of homemade cooking.

Imagine this: juicy, hand-battered pieces of chicken, golden-brown and crisp, tossed in a luscious sauce that’s elegantly tangy, with just a hint of heat to elevate the dish. This recipe is a game changer for anyone tired of the same fast-food rotation. Plus, it’s an impressive meal that can easily become the centerpiece of any weeknight dinner or family gathering. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that promises to transform your dinner table from ordinary to extraordinary in just 35 minutes!

Why is this Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe special?

Unforgettable flavors: This recipe brings together the perfect harmony of sweet and tangy, reminiscent of your favorite takeout dish.
Quick and easy: In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s restaurant-quality without breaking a sweat.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s a dish that will entice everyone at your table, making it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Homemade goodness: Say goodbye to fast food! Enjoy the satisfaction of making this classic from scratch with fresh ingredients.
Versatile serving options: Serve it over rice or noodles, and add your favorite veggies to customize it just the way you like.
Dive deeper into the world of homemade delights with other delicious options that will keep your dinner routine exciting!

Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Ingredients

• For perfect flavor and texture, choose fresh ingredients.

1 lb chicken breasts – boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 large eggs – for battering and coating
1 cup cornstarch – ensures a crispy texture; can substitute with flour if needed
1 cup orange juice – freshly squeezed for best flavor
¼ cup soy sauce – low-sodium helps control saltiness
½ cup brown sugar – adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with honey
2 garlic cloves – minced for aromatic flavor
Optional: red pepper flakes – for a hint of heat

With this Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe, you’re all set to enjoy a homemade bliss that’s bound to impress!

How to Make Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

Prep Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and patting them dry with paper towels. This step ensures the batter sticks beautifully to the chicken when frying.
Whisk Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the two large eggs until they’re frothy. This will be your adhesive for the crispy coating, so ensure it’s well mixed for full coverage.
Coat Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then roll it in cornstarch until fully coated. This creates that irresistible crunch!
Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high until it shimmers. Carefully fry the chicken in batches for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Make the Sauce: In another pan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer this delightful mixture until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Toss Chicken: Gently add the fried chicken to the sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in that mouthwatering orange sauce.
Serve: Plate your creation over fluffy rice or noodles. For the finishing touch, garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

Optional: Add steamed broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Creating a delightful meal isn’t just about the main dish; it’s the symphony of flavors and textures that bring a table to life.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice beautifully absorbs the tangy orange sauce, creating a harmonious balance with each bite. It’s the perfect base for your chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds a pop of vibrant green and a refreshing crunch, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal while adding vital nutrients.
Garlic Noodles: The savory notes of garlic-infused noodles create an irresistible pairing, complementing the citrus sweetness of the chicken with every single strand.
Crispy Egg Rolls: These bite-sized delights provide a fantastic contrast in texture and introduce delightful flavors, making any meal feel like a feast.
Miso Soup: A warm cup of miso soup adds a comforting umami richness that rounds out the meal, making it feel warm and welcoming.
Iced Green Tea: This refreshing drink cuts through the sweetness of the sauce, offering a cool complement that leaves you feeling rejuvenated.
Sesame Street Style Slaw: A bright slaw with a tangy dressing brings a crunchy, fresh element to your meal, adding delightful flavors that wake up your taste buds.
Orange Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing orange sorbet cleanses the palate and echoes the citrus theme of the meal, making it a delightful way to end your dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe components are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the chicken by battering and coating it (steps 1-3) up to 24 hours in advance, storing the coated pieces in an airtight container. Once covered, refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. The sauce (step 5) can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just ensure it is sealed tightly to enhance flavors. When you’re ready to serve, fry the chicken until golden, reheat the sauce on the stovetop, toss everything together, and you’ll have a delicious meal that feels just as fresh as the day you made it!

How to Store and Freeze Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze the orange chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to label and date the bags for easy identification.

Thawing: For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps retain the original texture and flavor of your homemade orange chicken.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This helps regain that delightful crunch!

Expert Tips for Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

• Prep Carefully: Dry the chicken pieces thoroughly before battering to ensure the cornstarch adheres well, resulting in a crispy coating.

• Heat Management: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become soggy instead of crispy.

• Batch Frying: Fry chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which ensures even cooking and a perfect golden crust.

• Sauce Timing: Wait until the chicken is fully cooked and crispy before adding it to the sauce. This keeps the texture intact and avoids mushiness.

• Customize Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference; feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.

Enjoy your cooking journey with this Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe!

Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Variations

Let your creativity shine as you customize this beloved dish to perfectly suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a crispy texture that everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce for an extra layer of heat that complements the citrus beautifully.
Citrus Twist: Mix in lemon or lime juice with the orange juice for a zesty flavor boost that brightens the dish.
Honey Glaze: Swap brown sugar with honey for a different kind of sweetness that enhances the sauce’s depth.
Veggie Packed: Toss in steamed broccoli or bell peppers to the chicken and sauce during the last few minutes for added nutrition and color.
Pineapple Bliss: For a tropical twist, add diced pineapple in the sauce; it balances the tanginess with a sweet charm that’ll delight your palate.
Air-Fryer Option: Cook the battered chicken in an air fryer for a healthier alternative, yielding a crisp bite without the added oil.
Crispy Tofu: Replace chicken with firm tofu, cut into cubes, and follow the same coating and frying technique for a delicious vegetarian option.

Whichever variation you choose, this Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken will surely transform your dinner experience into something extraordinary!

Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless and skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and becomes wonderfully tender inside while maintaining a crispy coating on the outside.

How long will the orange chicken last in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently in a skillet to keep it from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Of course! This dish freezes beautifully. Simply place the cooled orange chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers, labeled with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove to bring back that irresistible crunch.

What if my chicken pieces turn out soggy after frying?
Don’t fret! If your chicken ends up soggy, it could be due to overcrowding the pan while frying. Always fry in small batches, ensuring each piece has enough space. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken—if it’s too cool, the chicken won’t crisp up as nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe includes common allergens such as soy and eggs. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari to make it gluten-free. Always make sure to check labels to accommodate any specific dietary needs or allergies.

How can I customize the heat level in the sauce?
The more the merrier! You can easily adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce according to your taste. For a milder flavor, feel free to leave them out completely, or add more for an extra kick. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider using a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for more depth!