How to Make Orange Chicken with Panda Express Sauce: A Culinary Adventure
The aroma of savory orange chicken, a staple of Panda Express, always evokes fond memories of family dinners. Craving that tantalizing taste, I embarked on a culinary journey to recreate this beloved dish at home. After countless hours of experimenting, I’ve perfected the recipe, capturing the essence of Panda Express’s signature orange sauce. Join me as I share the secrets to creating this delectable dish that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Panda Express.
For those uninitiated with this culinary delight, orange chicken consists of crispy fried chicken coated in a vibrant orange sauce, a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The sauce, the cornerstone of this dish, is a harmonious fusion of orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
4. In the same skillet, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips:
1. For extra crispy chicken, double coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture.
2. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, check if the chicken is cooked through by cutting into the thickest part. The juices should run clear.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use other types of meat besides chicken?
A: Yes, you can use pork, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can fry the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the sauce until warmed through.
Conclusion
With this recipe in your arsenal, you can now savor the irresistible taste of Panda Express’s orange chicken anytime you crave it. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this dish is sure to impress. The crispy chicken, drenched in the tantalizing orange sauce, will delight your palate and leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to the heart of Panda Express.
Have you ever tried making your favorite restaurant dish at home? Share your experiences in the comments below.
