Panda express orange chicken secret revealed: unlock the flavor with our step-by-step guide

Craving the irresistible flavors of Panda Express’s iconic Orange Chicken? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will unravel the secrets behind this beloved dish, empowering you to recreate the tantalizing orange sauce and crispy chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, assemble the following ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 pound)
• Orange Sauce:
• Orange juice (1 cup)
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
• Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons)
• Honey (1 tablespoon)
• Sriracha (1/2 teaspoon, optional)
• Sesame oil (1 teaspoon, optional)
• Batter:
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup)
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Egg (1)
• Cold water (1/2 cup)

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes.
• In a bowl, marinate the chicken in soy sauce for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Crafting the Orange Sauce

• In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha (if desired), and sesame oil (if desired).
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Preparing the Batter

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
• In a second bowl, whisk the egg and cold water.

Step 4: Coating the Chicken

• Dip the marinated chicken into the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture.
• Shake off any excess batter.

Step 5: Frying the Chicken

• Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F.
• Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Drain the chicken on paper towels.

Step 6: Combining the Chicken and Sauce

• Add the fried chicken to the orange sauce and stir to combine.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (optional).

Step 7: Serving the Orange Chicken

• Serve the Orange Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles.
• Enjoy the crispy exterior and the tangy, sweet-and-sour orange sauce.

The Perfect Pairing: Steamed Rice or Noodles

• Steamed Rice: Plain white or brown rice complements the Orange Chicken’s bold flavors, providing a neutral canvas for the sauce.
• Noodles: Choose egg noodles, ramen noodles, or udon noodles for a more substantial accompaniment to the chicken.

Tips for Enhancing Your Orange Chicken

• Add a hint of spice: Increase the sriracha in the orange sauce for a tantalizing kick.
• Create a thicker sauce: Simmer the orange sauce for a longer duration to achieve a richer consistency.
• Experiment with different citrus fruits: Substitute orange juice with pineapple juice, grapefruit juice, or a blend of citrus juices for a unique flavor profile.
• Use a variety of vegetables: Add sliced peppers, onions, or broccoli to the orange chicken for a colorful and nutritious twist.

Secrets Revealed: Panda Express’s Orange Chicken

• The secret to the crispy exterior: The combination of flour, cornstarch, and baking powder creates a light and airy batter that crisps up perfectly.
• The tangy, sweet-and-sour sauce: The balance of orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
• The perfect accompaniment: Panda Express pairs their Orange Chicken with steamed rice to showcase the bold flavors of the dish.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe?
A: Both chicken breasts and thighs are suitable for this recipe. Chicken breasts will yield a leaner result, while chicken thighs will provide a more flavorful and juicy option.

Q: What is the best way to achieve a crispy batter?
A: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. The batter should sizzle immediately when it hits the oil. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can prevent the chicken from becoming crispy.

Q: How do I store leftover Orange Chicken?
A: Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.