Homemade Panda Orange Chicken

This sticky sweet and tangy orange chicken brings all the magic of Panda Express right into your kitchen with fresh citrus and golden crispy chicken. When I could not get takeout one night I tried this version myself and my family instantly demanded it go into regular rotation.

My kids actually ask for leftovers the next day which is rare in my house. Everyone ends up fighting over the last sticky orange-glazed piece.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast cubed: Boneless and skinless chicken breast gives tender juicy bites and cooks evenly look for plump pink pieces at the store for best flavor and texture
• Cornstarch: Essential for that ultra crispy crust skip flour for the lightest crunch
• Egg beaten: Helps bind the cornstarch to the chicken for even coating choose fresh eggs for the best adhesion
• Vegetable oil: Use a neutral frying oil with a high smoke point for safely browning the chicken until golden and crunchy
• Orange juice: Freshly squeezed gives real depth and tang if possible pick juicy oranges that feel heavy for their size
• Soy sauce: Gives deep savory umami opt for a low sodium type if you want to control saltiness
• Sugar: Balances tangy and salty flavors look for fine sugar so it dissolves quickly in the sauce
• Rice vinegar: Adds clean acidity go for clear unseasoned vinegar for authentic taste
• Grated ginger: Lends spicy warmth and complexity pick firm smooth ginger root with shiny skin
• Red pepper flakes optional: Add gentle heat if desired choose high quality flakes for best flavor

Instructions

Heat the Oil:

Pour your vegetable oil into a large skillet and set over medium-high heat. Allow it to shimmer but not smoke so you are ready to fry your chicken perfectly crisp.

Prepare the Chicken Coating:

Dredge each cube of chicken breast first in cornstarch. Shake off excess then dip in the beaten egg making sure every piece is fully covered. This double coat forms a crisp barrier that locks in all the chicken’s juices.

Fry the Chicken:

Add the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil arranging them in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping to ensure a golden crunchy coating on each side. Once done transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to keep them crisp and warm.

Make the Orange Sauce:

Using the same skillet pour in the orange juice soy sauce sugar rice vinegar grated ginger and if you choose red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a bubbling simmer letting all those flavors mingle until the sauce starts to look glossy and a little thickened.

Toss Chicken in Sauce:

Return your fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly so each bite is coated in bright orange glaze and has that sweet citrus aroma.

Let the Sauce Thicken:

Allow everything to simmer together for two to three minutes. The sauce will become syrupy and cling to the chicken giving it that signature sticky finish.

Serve and Enjoy:

Scoop your orange chicken onto plates while hot so the coating stays crisp. Steamed jasmine rice or noodles are perfect for soaking up all the extra citrusy sauce. Share with family or savor for yourself.

This orange chicken is the clear favorite at birthday dinners and makes my whole family smile around the table. Watching everyone reach for seconds always makes the effort worth it.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The chicken stays surprisingly crisp even after reheating in the oven. Use the broiler for a couple of minutes to refresh the crunchy texture. If you want to prep ahead fry your chicken and store the sauce separately then combine and reheat when you are ready to serve.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breast for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer richer flavor. Gluten free soy sauce works perfectly if needed. Arrowroot can be substituted for cornstarch with nearly identical results. If you have mandarin oranges use their juice for a mild twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pile your orange chicken over fluffy steamed rice or toss with lo mein noodles and fresh scallions. For a takeout style feast serve alongside broccoli or snap peas to balance the sweet sauce. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch and a finishing touch.

Cultural and Historical Context

Orange chicken became an American Chinese classic thanks to restaurants like Panda Express in the 1980s. It is inspired by traditional sweet and sour dishes from Hunan province but the sticky orange glaze is pure California creativity. Orange chicken now features in homes gatherings and potlucks across the country symbolizing comfort and celebration.

Seasonal Adaptations

Make with blood oranges in winter for a redder hue and deeper taste. Add extra ginger or more red pepper for a warm winter kick. In summer reduce sugar and bump up the vinegar for brighter flavor.

Success Stories

Friends have made this for game nights and said no takeout compares. Homemade means each flavor stands out and the crunch lasts longer. Several readers told me it is now their birthday dinner request. My neighbor even serves it for Thanksgiving when her kids come home from college.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Double the recipe fry all the chicken and let cool completely. Freeze in a zip top bag in a single layer. Freeze sauce separately. Reheat from frozen in a hot oven and warm the sauce in a saucepan before tossing together. The texture stays wonderfully crisp and the citrus brightens up even a busy weeknight.

Try this homemade orange chicken once and it will quickly become a family favorite. The bright citrus and golden crunch are simply irresistible any night of the week.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you get the chicken extra crispy?

Coating the chicken first with cornstarch and then dipping it in beaten egg ensures the perfect crunch when fried.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and offer a juicier texture while still turning crispy when fried.

→ What makes the sauce glossy and thick?

Simmering the sauce ingredients together and tossing the fried chicken in while warm helps it cling beautifully.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness or heat?

You can add more or less sugar for sweetness, and adjust or omit the red pepper flakes for preferred spice.

→ What are ideal side dishes to serve?

Steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables pair wonderfully, soaking up the vibrant citrus sauce and balancing flavors.