Ultimate Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Made Easy

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar scent of orange and ginger wafted through the air, transporting me back to countless evenings spent sharing takeout with friends. That delightful memory sparked an idea: why not recreate the magic of Panda Express Orange Chicken right at home? With its crispy, tender chicken coated in a luscious sweet and tangy sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful alternative to fast food.

In just a few easy steps, you can master this beloved favorite without the takeout prices. Whether you re looking to impress guests or simply want a satisfying weeknight dinner, this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe promises to deliver flavor and comfort. Join me as we transform basic ingredients into a dish that brings the essence of restaurant dining straight to your table, and let s dive into a cooking adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe so Loved?

Flavor Explosion: Every bite of this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe bursts with a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that mimic the classic dish we all know and love.
Easy and Accessible: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create restaurant-quality orange chicken right at home.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer it extra zesty or with a little kick, the recipe is adaptable to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to impress your friends and family.
Saves You Money: Say goodbye to expensive takeout bills; this homemade version is budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

Panda Express Orange Chicken Ingredients

To recreate this delicious Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe at home, gather the following ingredients.

For the Chicken

• Boneless Chicken Breasts The main protein providing tenderness; chicken thighs can be substituted for juicier bites.
• Egg Binds the breadcrumb coating and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
• Sunflower Oil Perfect for frying; it ensures a light and crispy texture.
• Salt Enhances the overall flavor of the dish; essential for seasoning.
• Pepper Adds a mild heat enhancing the chicken s taste.

For the Coating

• Cornstarch Contributes to a crunchy coating while helping to thicken the sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour Provides structure to the chicken s coating, ensuring that it holds up during frying.

For the Sauce

• White Distilled Vinegar Adds necessary acidity for balancing the sauce; apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute.
• Cane Sugar Infuses sweetness to counterbalance the sauce s tanginess; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Water Helps adjust the consistency of your sauce for a perfect drizzle.
• Soy Sauce Gives the sauce its umami flavor; use coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes For a mild spicy touch; you can adjust the amount to suit your preference or use sesame seeds instead.
• Garlic Fresh garlic adds depth and flavor; always opt for fresh for the best results.
• Zested Ginger Root Essential for authenticity, bringing warmth and zestiness to the sauce.
• Orange Juice Concentrate The star flavor of the sauce; fresh orange juice works wonderfully too.
• Sesame Oil Enhances the aroma and adds a nutty flavor, though it s optional.
• Rice Wine Provides extra depth to the sauce; can be swapped with apple cider vinegar if needed.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let s move on to preparing an unforgettable Panda Express Orange Chicken at home!

How to Make Panda Express Orange Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch thick. This size ensures even cooking and maximizes that crispy, tender texture.

2. Preheat the Oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, preheat 2 inches of sunflower oil to 350 °F (175 °C). This hot oil is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy coating for your orange chicken.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the egg with a splash of oil, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help the flour coating stick to the chicken while contributing to its crunchiness.

4. Mix the Coating Ingredients: In another bowl, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour. This mix is key to creating that golden, crunchy exterior we all love about Panda Express Orange Chicken.

5. Dredge the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first, letting any excess drip off, then coat it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is fully covered for a lovely crispy finish!

6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry them until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165 °F, about 5-7 minutes. Frying in smaller batches prevents overcrowding and keeps everything crispy.

7. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients: white distilled vinegar, cane sugar, water, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, zested ginger root, and orange juice concentrate. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, around 1-2 minutes.

8. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once your chicken is perfectly fried, toss it in the orange sauce until every delicious piece is well-coated. Transfer the coated chicken to a serving dish and get ready to enjoy!

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for a delightful extra crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Panda Express Orange Chicken?

Transform your meal into a delightful feast by pairing flavors that complement the crispy, tangy chicken.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate and fragrant rice soaks up the sweet and tangy sauce, creating a satisfying balance with each bite.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A medley of vibrant veggies adds color and a nutrient boost, perfectly contrasting the richness of the orange chicken.
• Fried Rice: Add crunchy vegetables and eggs for a flavorful side that enhances the meal s texture and savoriness. This hearty option pairs well with the sauce, making every forkful enjoyable.
• Egg Rolls: These crispy, savory bites are a delightful appetizer, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
• Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy and slightly salty, this dish provides a delightful kick and balances the sweetness of the orange chicken perfectly, introducing a fun texture to your plate.
• Garlic Noodles: Rich and buttery, these noodles offer comfort and a subtle garlic flavor that harmonizes with the tangy elements of the dish.
• Mango Salad: Fresh, juicy mango with greens brings a refreshing sweetness that not only lightens the meal but offers a delightful contrast to the fried chicken.
• Green Tea: The earthy undertones of this lightly caffeinated drink cleanse the palate, making it a refreshing and healthful choice to accompany your orange chicken.
• Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with this indulgent dessert; the ooey-gooey chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the bright citrus flavors of the orange chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Panda Express Orange Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The orange sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to allow it to cool before refrigerating in a sealed jar. To maintain quality, reheat the sauce gently on the stove before tossing it with the freshly fried chicken. When ready to serve, fry the chicken pieces and combine them with the warm sauce for a delicious, quick meal that tastes just as delightful as when freshly prepared!

How to Store and Freeze Panda Express Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Panda Express Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To retain crispiness, reheat the chicken in the oven at 375 °F (190 °C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Thawing: When you re ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips for Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Preheat Oil Properly: Make sure your oil reaches 350 °F before frying. This step is vital for achieving that signature crispy texture without greasy chicken.

• Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the chicken. Fry in smaller batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.

• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: If the sauce turns out too tangy for your taste, add more sugar or orange juice gradually until you find your perfect balance.

• Crispy Coating: Ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated in the flour mixture. A thorough dredge is key to that satisfying crunch in your Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor; they ll make your orange chicken burst with deliciousness.

Panda Express Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this recipe your own!

• Oven-Baked: Instead of deep-frying, bake the coated chicken at 400 °F (200 °C) for a healthier option that still offers a satisfying crunch.

• Citrus Twist: Substitute orange juice with lemon or lime juice to give your sauce a zesty kick, brightening the overall flavor profile beautifully.

• Spicy Touch: Add more crushed red pepper flakes for heat or toss in chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra burst of flavor!

• Sweet and Savory: Mix in a touch of honey along with the sugar to bring a richer sweetness to the sauce that complements the tanginess perfectly.

• Coconut Flour Coating: Go gluten-free by using coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour for a unique flavor twist and a slightly different texture.

• Sesame Crunch: For added dimension, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish before serving, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower florets for a delightful vegetarian alternative that everyone will love.

• Asian Fusion: Incorporate wok-fried vegetables such as bell peppers and snap peas into the dish for a colorful, nutritious twist that adds vibrancy to your meal.

Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless chicken breasts for their tenderness, but you can also opt for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier bite. The choice is yours based on personal preference or dietary needs.

How do I store leftover Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, ensure it s sealed well to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor. Reheating is best done in the oven to keep that crispy texture intact!

Can I freeze Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can! For best results, lay the fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the chicken to a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my orange sauce is too tangy?
If your sauce tastes too tangy or vinegary, you can balance it out by gradually adding more cane sugar or a bit of orange juice. Start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach that perfectly sweet and tangy flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! This Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets. Simply replace regular soy sauce with coconut aminos, and make sure to use gluten-free flour when coating the chicken. Enjoy worry-free!

What are some alternative serving suggestions for this dish?
Very! Besides serving it over steamed white rice, you can pair it with fried rice, steamed broccoli, or even a refreshing side salad. The vibrant flavors complement a variety of sides, making it a great option for any occasion.