How to Make Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken at Home: A Spicy Twist You’ll Love
Craving that sweet, tangy, and spicy kick from Panda Express hot orange chicken but wish you could make it right at home? We’ve got you covered! 🥡 There’s something about that burst of flavor that hits all the right notes, isn’t there? This dish takes the classic orange chicken and adds a hot twist—perfect for those who love a bit of heat in every bite.
Today, we’re diving into a recipe that brings all that hot orange chicken goodness to your kitchen. This recipe is as close as you can get to Panda Express’s version but gives you the freedom to adjust the heat and flavors. And if you’re ready to step it up, we’ll share some tips to make this meal even better than takeout. Ready? Let’s get cooking!
What Makes Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken So Irresistible?
Have you ever wondered why everyone’s so hooked on Panda Express’s hot orange chicken? It’s that perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy that just hits the spot. You’ve got the crispy coating, the zing of fresh orange, and just enough sauce to keep things messy in the best way possible. Every bite is packed with flavor, which is why it’s a go-to for anyone who loves a little heat.
Now, we’re not claiming to have their exact recipe (we wish!), but we’ve figured out a way to get pretty darn close. This homemade version has all those same flavors that’ll make you say, “Whoa, this is just like the real deal.” And here’s the best part: you get to call the shots on the spice level. So whether you’re in the mood for mild or a full-on fiery kick, it’s all in your hands!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken
The key to nailing this recipe is having the right ingredients on hand. Here’s a breakdown:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, diced | 1 lb |
| Orange juice (fresh or bottled) | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Red chili flakes | 1/2 tsp |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
| Oil for frying | as needed |
| Optional Dipping Sauce: Chick Fil A Sauce |
Each ingredient plays a role in building that iconic Panda Express flavor. The orange juice brings a bright, tangy sweetness; the soy sauce adds depth; and the honey balances the heat. And speaking of heat, we’ll be using red chili flakes, but feel free to adjust depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken
Let’s walk through each step of creating this dish so you can recreate the magic right in your kitchen!
Prepare the Sauce
Grab a bowl and whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and red chili flakes. This combination is where all that signature flavor comes from. Adjust the chili flakes based on how much heat you’re in the mood for.
Coat the Chicken
Toss the diced chicken pieces with cornstarch in a large bowl until each piece is well coated. This step ensures that perfect crispiness when you fry the chicken.
Fry the Chicken
Pour some oil into a skillet and warm it up over medium-high heat. Once it’s ready, drop in the chicken pieces and let them sizzle until they’re golden and perfectly crispy. When they look just right, transfer them to a paper towel to drain. Thanks to that cornstarch coating, you’ll get a beautiful crunch that stays crispy, even after the chicken’s drenched in sauce!
Combine the Chicken and Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the orange sauce mixture. Let it cook for a couple of minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Now, toss the crispy chicken back into the pan and give it a good stir, making sure each piece gets drenched in that tangy, mouth-watering sauce. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Hot Orange Chicken
To get the best results, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the red chili flakes. Or, if you’re in the mood for a real kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Want a dip to balance out the heat? Serve it with a side of Chick Fil A Sauce, which brings a creamy, slightly tangy contrast that complements the spicy orange chicken perfectly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When you’re frying up the chicken, give each piece a little breathing room in the pan. This way, they cook evenly and keep that perfect, crispy crunch we’re after!
- Use Fresh Orange Zest: If you want to elevate the flavor, add a touch of fresh orange zest to the sauce for extra brightness.
With these easy tips, you’ll be serving up a dish that’s so good, it might just beat your favorite takeout spot!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does Panda Express still serve hot orange chicken?
A: Panda Express often brings back hot orange chicken as a seasonal or promotional item. But with this recipe, you can whip it up anytime right at home.
Q: What are the calories in Panda Express hot orange chicken?
A: Calorie counts vary, but typically a serving has around 300-350 calories. Homemade versions may have fewer calories depending on the amount of oil used.
Q: Wondering if you can use different cuts of chicken?
A: Absolutely! If you’re all about that extra tender, juicy bite, feel free to go with chicken thighs instead. Just follow the same steps for coating and frying.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: If you’re going gluten-free, no problem! Replace the soy sauce by tamari or coconut aminos.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Favorites
We know what it’s like to crave that specific Panda Express flavor, especially when you’re in the mood for something a little spicy, a little sweet, and totally satisfying. This hot orange chicken recipe brings that flavor right to your table, giving you a taste of takeout without ever leaving home.
Plus, once you see how easy it is to make, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation of meals. Serve it over rice, alongside veggies, or with a side of Chick Fil A Sauce for dipping, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love. So go ahead, give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
Conclusion
This Panda Express Hot Orange Chicken recipe is all about creating a delicious, homemade version of a restaurant favorite. All it takes are a few ingredients and easy steps, and you’ll have this dish ready to satisfy your cravings anytime they hit. And remember, adding a side of Chick Fil A Sauce as a dip takes this dish to a whole new level—try it out and see for yourself!
Happy cooking, and let us know your favorite tips and tweaks in the comments. Enjoy!
