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Homemade Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) photo

Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

This Orange Chicken is a delicious homemade twist on the takeout classic! Crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orange Sauce:
  • 1 cup Hoisin Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Orange Zest
  • 3 tablespoons Orange Juice
  • 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons Water
For the Chicken:
  • 2 cups Flour divided
  • 1 cup Ice Cold Water
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 lb Chicken Thighs boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger fresh, minced
  • 2 large Cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Scallions optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking thermometer

Method
 

Directions
  1. Begin by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and 1 cup of flour. Toss until the chicken is well coated.
  2. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, cornstarch, egg, and ice cold water until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too thick.
  3. In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  4. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter and carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. In a saucepan, combine hoisin sauce, orange zest, orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce to thicken. Cook until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
  6. In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the fried chicken and pour the orange sauce over it. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly.
  7. Transfer the Orange Chicken to a serving plate and garnish with minced garlic and scallions if desired. Serve it hot over steamed rice or with your favorite side.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.
  • To make it spicy, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.
  • For added crunch, top with toasted sesame seeds.