Craving panda express? make authentic orange chicken at home (with a twist)

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Panda Express’s iconic Orange Chicken? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will empower you with the culinary wisdom to replicate this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow our step-by-step instructions and soon you’ll be savoring an authentic Panda Express experience, minus the takeout line.

Gathering Your Ingredients

The foundation of any great dish lies in the quality of its ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Orange juice (1 cup)
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
• Honey (1/4 cup)
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
• Rice vinegar (1/4 cup)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced)
• Orange zest (1 teaspoon)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes.
2. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, orange juice, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Crafting the Orange Sauce

1. Combine the sauce ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and orange zest.
2. Bring to a boil: Bring the sauce mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Frying the Chicken

1. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer to a depth of 1 inch. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).
2. Drain the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and drain on paper towels.
3. Fry the chicken: Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Drain the chicken: Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Assembling the Orange Chicken

1. Combine the chicken and sauce: In a large bowl, combine the fried chicken and the orange sauce. Toss to coat.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the orange chicken for an authentic touch.

Tips for Perfection

• Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your Orange Chicken. Opt for fresh orange juice and zest for the best results.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become tough and dry. Fry it only until golden brown and cooked through.
• Adjust the sauce to your taste: The orange sauce can be customized to your preferences. Add more honey for sweetness, more soy sauce for saltiness, or more rice vinegar for tanginess.
• Serve immediately: Orange Chicken is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the fryer.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice vinegar to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable: Substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.

The Bottom Line: Orange Chicken Mastery Achieved

Congratulations! You have now mastered the art of Panda Express Orange Chicken. Impress your family and friends with this delicious and authentic dish that will transport you to the streets of Beijing. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and frying.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or as long as overnight. The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.

Q: What side dishes go well with Orange Chicken?
A: Orange Chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.