Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Craving some spicy and sweet takeout? This Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy is your solution! With crispy chicken pieces tossed in a tangy, fiery orange sauce, this dish delivers an irresistible flavor explosion. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe combines tenderness and crunch, making it a standout meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and full of vibrant tastes that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of sweet orange juice and spicy chili peppers creates a delightful balance of flavors.
• Crispy Texture: The chicken is coated in cornstarch and flour, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste or substitute chicken with other proteins.
• Perfect for Groups: With four servings, it’s great for family dinners or sharing at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Hot Orange Chicken, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan or wok: These are crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture by allowing enough oil for frying.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining the ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the egg wash smoothly for coating the chicken evenly.
• Tongs: Useful for safely handling the hot chicken during frying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Coating

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp oil (for egg wash)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp white pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 orange, zest of
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 4 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
• 1 tbsp green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)

For the Spice Mix

• 2 tbsp oil (for stir-frying)
• ½ cup dried whole red chili peppers
• 6 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (for stir-frying)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated (optional)

How to Make Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
2. In another bowl, mix together cornstarch and all-purpose flour.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly in the cornstarch mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, carefully add coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. Remove cooked chicken and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice apple vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
2. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add dried whole red chili peppers and sauté briefly until fragrant.
3. Add fried chicken pieces along with minced garlic and grated ginger (if using).
4. Pour in the orange sauce; stir well to coat all chicken pieces evenly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
2. Serve your delicious Hot Orange Chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Enjoy your fiery feast!

How to Serve Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Serving your Hot Orange Chicken is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate this dish, enhancing its flavors and creating a delightful dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice complements the spicy sauce, soaking up the delicious flavors.

Over Fried Rice

• Serve the chicken over fried rice for a heartier meal. The added vegetables and soy sauce in fried rice offer a tasty contrast.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with side salads or lightly sautéed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with Hot Orange Chicken. This adds a refreshing twist to your meal.

With Dipping Sauce

• Offer a sweet chili sauce or extra orange sauce on the side for those who enjoy an added kick.

How to Perfect Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Perfecting your Hot Orange Chicken can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some useful tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the aroma and taste of your sauce, making it more vibrant.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, add more for an extra kick.
• Double fry the chicken: For an even crispier texture, fry the chicken twice. This creates a golden-brown crust that holds up well against the sauce.
• Garnish generously: Adding sliced green onions not only makes your dish look inviting but also adds freshness and brightness to each bite.
• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in soy sauce and orange juice for 30 minutes before frying enhances its flavor profile.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve your Hot Orange Chicken right after cooking while it’s still crispy and warm.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

Choosing the right side dishes can perfectly complement your Hot Orange Chicken. Here are some great options that pair well with this dish.

1. Vegetable Fried Rice
   A classic choice that adds color, flavor, and texture. Toss in peas, carrots, and egg for a complete meal.
2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances out the spicy sweetness of the chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad
   Refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing offers a cool contrast to the hot orange chicken’s intense flavors.
4. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables make a fun appetizer that pairs well with Asian-inspired meals.
5. Noodle Salad
   Cold noodle salads dressed in soy sauce or sesame oil provide a delightful change of pace alongside hot dishes.
6. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and warmth, enhancing your overall dining experience without overshadowing the main dish.
7. Quinoa Pilaf
   Nutty quinoa pilaf can be an excellent alternative to rice, offering protein and fiber while absorbing flavors from sauces beautifully.
8. Pickled Vegetables
   Tangy pickled vegetables serve as a palate cleanser between bites of spicy chicken, adding variety to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls when preparing your Hot Orange Chicken to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the marinating step – Marinating the chicken adds flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip it; let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using too much oil for frying – Too much oil can lead to greasy chicken. Use just enough to coat the bottom of the pan for frying.
• Not monitoring cooking temperature – Cooking on high heat can burn the coating. Maintain a medium heat to achieve a perfect golden brown.
• Overcooking the sauce – If you cook the sauce too long, it will become too thick or burnt. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat once it’s glossy and thickened.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements – Accurate measurements are crucial for balance in flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of estimating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow cooling before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and stir-fry chicken until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Hot Orange Chicken.

What is Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)?

Hot Orange Chicken is a homemade version of the popular Panda Express dish, featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can bake the chicken instead of frying it for fewer calories and fat while still retaining great taste.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and dried chili peppers according to your heat preference.

How should I serve Hot Orange Chicken?

Serve it over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

This Hot Orange Chicken recipe offers an exciting blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can elevate any dining experience. It’s versatile enough for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste!