Print

Crispy Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Easy Sweet Tangy Glaze

crispy panda express orange chicken recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A copycat recipe for Panda Express Orange Chicken featuring crispy double-fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil (such as canola oil) for frying
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sliced green onions (optional garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5 inches each. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  3. Dip each chicken piece first into the eggs, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat. Place coated chicken on a wire rack and let sit for 10 minutes.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a large heavy-bottomed skillet or wok to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully add chicken pieces in batches and fry for about 3-4 minutes until lightly golden but not fully cooked. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  6. Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken pieces again in batches for 1-2 minutes until deep golden and super crispy. Drain again on paper towels.
  7. While the chicken rests, whisk together orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Stir in the cornstarch-water slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.
  9. Place the crispy chicken in a large bowl. Pour the warm orange glaze over and toss quickly to coat evenly.
  10. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.

Notes

Double frying is key to achieving the perfect crispy texture without greasiness. Keep oil temperature steady using a thermometer. If sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of water to loosen. Fresh orange juice is recommended for best flavor. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and soy sauce with tamari.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange chicken, crispy chicken, Panda Express copycat, sweet tangy glaze, double fried chicken, easy dinner, family recipe

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/crispy-panda-express-orange-chicken-recipe-easy-sweet-tangy-glaze/