Panda Express Orange Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

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This easy copycat recipe brings the bold, tangy-sweet flavor of Panda Express’s famous orange chicken right to your kitchen. It’s got the crispy bites, sticky glaze, and citrusy kick you know and love—made with pantry-friendly ingredients. Skip the takeout and make this at home in under 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe

• Tastes just like the restaurant version—seriously!
• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
• Budget-friendly and made with everyday ingredients
• Easily customizable for spice or sweetness

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Neutral oil, for frying (e.g. canola or vegetable)

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 orange
• Optional: ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugars, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Stir the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and add it to the pan. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Set aside.
3. Bread the chicken: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine cornstarch and flour. Dip each piece of chicken in egg, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Fry the chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Toss and serve: Place chicken in a clean bowl, pour the orange sauce over, and toss until coated. Serve immediately with rice or steamed vegetables.

Tips for the Best Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken

• Chicken thighs stay juicier than breast meat, but either works.
• Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha if you want it spicier.
• Make the sauce ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best texture (avoid microwaving if you want to keep the chicken crispy).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes. Lightly spray coated chicken pieces with oil and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Toss with sauce afterward.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be. Just use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze orange chicken?
Yes. Freeze the fried chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and toss together before serving.

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• Copycat Starbucks Blueberry Scone Recipe

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If you make this Panda Express Orange Chicken recipe, please drop a comment below! I’d LOVE to know what you think! Or take a picture and share it on Instagram by tagging @dwellbymichelle so I can repost it on my stories!

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