Pic Credit: iheartumami
Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken is a different take on the orange chicken adding some sweetness and heat. It combines crispy chicken with a sauce of zesty, warm orange that is downright addicting.
Whether you like the original with orange chicken or want a little more spice, this Hot Orange Chicken will satisfy your craving! They are fantastic and so worth carrying the flavors of your favorite takeout into your home.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
To make this delightful panda express hot orange chicken recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bitesized pieces)
- 1 cup allpurpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce (to taste)
- 2 tsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- Measure everything carefully to balance the flavours perfectly. Be sure to measure with actual measuring cups and spoons.
- Proper hand hygiene (wash hands with soap, warm water and lather for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw chicken). Meat and cutting boards are kept separate from vegetables
- Frying the chicken when you prepare it, be careful Because of hot oil can splatter use a deep pan also fry in small portions to keep it at safe heat.
- Cook, stirring occasionally until the chicken is done and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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For this recipe, I use chicken thighs because it stays juicy after frying. Although, if you more of a white meat guy, chicken breast or use can certainly sub whatever favorite lean protein.
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The heat in this dish comes from chili garlic sauce, which can be mild or hot, to taste. Adjust it to preferred level spiciness by increase the more or fewer drops of hot sauce you combine.
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Use freshly squeezed orange juice which gives the best flavor, but storebought virus will also work.
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Cornstarch — this makes the chicken really crisp Obviously it's essential for that classic Panda Express mouthfeel.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Combine flour, cornstarch, salt and beaten eggs in a large dish; then season with black pepper and garlic powder.
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Dredge the chicken pieces in your beaten eggs, then flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
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In a deep pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over mediumhigh heat. Oil at about 350°F (175°C)
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Deep fry the chicken pieces, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until browned and crispy, 6 to 7 minutes per batch.
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Drain the chicken on paper towels.
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Take a medium saucepan and add orange juice, soy sauce,rice vinegar,sugar,zest of one whole oranges, 1 -2 tablespoon chili garlic chinese hot red pepper paste which is easily available at any super market,miced ginger,minced Garlic.
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Staying with me makes the mixture be in a simmered setting, softly being narrated over medium heat.
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Pour in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for another 23 minutes until it thickens.
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Fold the fried chicken pieces in hot orange sauce to hen your desire.
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Enjoy right away, with additional orange zest or chopped green onions if desired!
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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If you want a more tangy flavor, add 1 tbsp of Lemon Juice to the sauce.
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For extra colour and vitamins, throw in some capsicums or broccoli.
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If you want a healthier option, bake the chicken instead of frying it. Roast at 200°C/400°F for 2025 minutes, turn once.
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It gives great flavour to your chicken when you marinate it into a soy sauce + garlic mix for 30 minutes before frying them.
EQUIPMENT
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Deep frying pan or wok
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Medium saucepan
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Mixing bowls
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Tongs or a slotted spoon
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Paper towels for draining
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
- Put Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken over whitened or perhaps fried rice for a total dinner.
- Serve with steamed veges or an Asian style salad to round out the meal.
- Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an authentic touch.
Are you looking for another tasty chicken dish? Chicken Romesco Recipe is a flavorful twist!
