Panda Express's Orange Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

This classic Orange Chicken recipe captures the sweet and tangy flavors of the beloved dish from Panda Express. Tender pieces of chicken are coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a vibrant orange sauce that balances sweetness with a hint of zest. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Zest of 1 orange
• Green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add water gradually to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Dip the chicken pieces into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and carefully place them in the hot oil.
5. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine the sugar, orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.