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As the sun sets on a busy day, I often find myself yearning for a taste of comfort that can easily transform a mundane evening into a flavorful feast. One of my go-to options is an irresistible Hot Orange Chicken, reminiscent of that beloved dish from Panda Express but crafted right in my own kitchen! The vibrant aroma of tangy orange juice mingling with spicy red pepper flakes wafts through the air, calling everyone to the table.

After experimenting with various ingredients, I was thrilled to discover just the right balance of savory and sweet while keeping the recipe easy and quick. This version of chicken with orange sauce is not only delicious but also offers an incredible crunch that rivals any restaurant fare. Perfect for those tired of the same old takeout, this home-cooked delight is a game changer—especially on a weeknight when a certain craving strikes.

So, if you’re ready to dive into a dish that’s got flavor, flair, and the magic of homemade goodness, let’s get cooking! You’ll love how this Hot Orange Chicken is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Why is Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express a must-try?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of sweet orange juice and spicy red pepper flakes creates an explosion of taste that makes your taste buds dance.

Crunchy perfection: Each bite features crispy fried chicken enveloped in a deliciously thick orange sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick and easy: This recipe streamlines dinner, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality food without the wait.

Crowd-pleasing favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this dish transforms any meal into a festive occasion.

Versatile pairings: Serve it over rice, or toss it in fresh veggies for an easy, wholesome boost.

You’ll feel like a culinary star when you bring this flavorful dish to your table! For more delightful ideas, check out our guide on homemade takeout alternatives.

Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs chicken – Choose boneless skinless breasts or thighs for tender bites.
1 cup cornstarch – Ensures a wonderfully crispy coating that holds the sauce.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Adds additional texture to the chicken’s crust.
2 eggs – Creates a perfect binding agent for the chicken coating.
2 tablespoons oil – Use canola or vegetable oil for frying and flavor.
1 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
1/2 tsp white pepper – Adds subtle heat without overpowering the sweetness.
Oil for frying – Choose a high smoke point oil to achieve that crispy finish.

For the Orange Sauce

1 cup orange juice – The star of the show, bringing bright sweetness and tang.
1 orange, zest of – Infuses an extra burst of citrus flavor to the sauce.
3 tablespoons soy sauce – Complements the sweetness with its umami depth.
4 tablespoons rice wine vinegar – Adds a hint of acidity to balance the flavors.
1/2 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the sauce while contributing to its velvety texture.
2 teaspoons sesame oil – Introduces a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to cling wonderfully to the chicken.

For the Spice Blend

1 tablespoon green onions, sliced – Freshness to garnish and elevate the dish.
1/2 cup dried whole red chili peppers – Adds authentic heat and beautiful color.
6 teaspoons red pepper flakes – Controls the heat level based on your preference.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – A second drizzle for added flavor depth in the frying process.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Imparts a fragrant aroma that elevates the meal.
Optional: 1 tablespoon ginger, grated – For an aromatic zing that pairs beautifully with the orange sauce.

Dive into the experience of making this Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express-inspired dish that you’ll cherish and crave for repeat servings!

How to Make Hot Orange Chicken

Whisk together sauce: In a medium bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and orange zest. Whisk until smooth and well blended, then set it aside to let the flavors develop.
Prepare the dredge: In a shallow pie dish, mix cornstarch and flour. Add salt and white pepper, whisking until evenly combined. This mix will add a delightful crispy coating to the chicken.
Mix the egg wash: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until emulsified. This mixture will help the dredging flour adhere to the chicken pieces beautifully.
Heat the oil: In a heavy skillet, wok, or deep pan, heat oil to 375°F. This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect crunch as the chicken fries.
Coat the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, coating it generously. Transfer the coated chicken into the dredging mixture and toss until evenly coated on all sides.
Fry the chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Drain the chicken on a wire rack to keep it crispy.
Sauté the spices: In a wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add dried chili peppers and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 15 seconds until they release their aroma.
Add aromatics: Toss in the minced garlic (and grated ginger, if using) along with sesame oil. Stir for another 15 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Thicken the sauce: Pour the orange sauce into the wok, stirring it in as it heats up. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, around 2 minutes, making a glossy coating.
Combine chicken and sauce: Gently add the fried chicken pieces to the wok, tossing everything together to coat the chicken in that luscious orange sauce. Warm through for about 1 minute before serving it over rice and garnishing with sliced green onions.

Optional: Serve with steamed broccoli for a delightful crunch and extra nutrition.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Hot Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover Hot Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist while maintaining the zesty flavor of the orange sauce.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken combined with the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, either microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through or warm on the stovetop over low heat until the sauce is bubbling again.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving cooked Hot Orange Chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Hot Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to customize this dish to fit your taste and dietary needs—you’ll be amazed at the delicious results!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure cornstarch is certified gluten-free to suit your dietary needs.
Citrus Twist: Use grapefruit or lemon juice in place of orange juice for a tangy flavor twist that still brings brightness to the dish.
Honey Sweetened: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor in your orange sauce.
Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers while sautéing the dried chili peppers for an extra fiery punch.
Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the coated chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying for a lighter, yet crispy result.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower to create a veggie version of this beloved dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Asian Adventure: Incorporate hoisin sauce or oyster sauce into the mix for a savory, umami boost that adds complexity to the orange sauce.
Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some crushed cashews or peanuts at the end for an added crunch and a nutty flavor that compliments the citrus beautifully.

What to Serve with Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express?

Enhance your meal experience with sides that complement the vibrant flavors of this Chicken with Orange Sauce.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice soaks up the sauce beautifully, providing a perfect balance with the spicy sweetness of the chicken.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crunchy and brightly colored, this veggie adds freshness and a nutrition boost, rounding out the meal perfectly. It contrasts well with the saucy chicken while delivering essential vitamins.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and flaky, filled with veggies or shrimp, these add a delightful crunch to your dining experience. They make for a wonderful appetizer alongside the main dish.
Garlic Fried Rice: Infuse extra flavor into your meal. Each bite of this fragrant fried rice pairs perfectly with the citrusy notes of the orange chicken, creating a symphony of tastes.
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and tangy, this salad cuts through the richness of the chicken, balancing flavors. The crunch of cucumbers offers a delightful contrast to the warmth of the main dish.
Peach Iced Tea: A sweet and refreshing drink that complements the dish without overpowering. The fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the citrusy chicken.

With these pairing ideas, you’ll create a full meal that elevates the beloved Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express from a simple weeknight dinner to a memorable feast!

Tips for the Best Hot Orange Chicken

Crispy Coating: Use enough oil: Make sure the oil is at 375°F before adding the chicken to ensure a perfectly crispy finish without excess grease.

Taste Test: Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness in the sauce; a little can go a long way.

Chili Control: Spice level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and dried chili peppers depending on your desired heat; remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!

Sauce Consistency: Thicken wisely: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, mix a bit more cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it in gradually while cooking.

Wait to Serve: Let it sit: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a minute before serving; this will help the sauce cling better and let the flavors meld beautifully.

With these thoughtful tips, your Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express will shine with all its flavorful glory!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express bites are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the orange sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to boost its flavors. For even more convenience, bread and fry your chicken in advance, allowing it to cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. To maintain that delightful crispiness, just reheat the chicken in a hot oven briefly before tossing it in the sauce, allowing those savory flavors to meld. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the sauce and coat the chicken before serving it over rice for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes just as good as fresh.

Hot Orange Chicken Panda Express Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe oranges for the sauce?
When selecting oranges for this dish, look for ones that feel heavy for their size—the juicier, the better! The skin should be smooth and firm, with a bright orange color. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes.

How do I store leftover Hot Orange Chicken?
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll enjoy the delightful flavors later without worry!

Can I freeze Hot Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container or a freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible. The dish will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop, gently warming until the sauce is bubbling.

What if my sauce isn’t thickening?
No worries! If your orange sauce doesn’t thicken as expected, simply mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into your sauce while it’s cooking, and continue to heat it until it reaches your desired consistency. This step-by-step fix should do the trick!

Is Hot Orange Chicken safe for pets?
While your furry friends may be begging for a taste, it’s best to keep this dish away from them. The sauce contains ingredients like soy sauce and spices that can be harmful to pets. Stick to their designated treats!

How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer less heat, simply reduce the number of dried chili peppers and red pepper flakes you use. Start with a smaller amount, taste the sauce, and adjust as needed. Remember, you can add more spice later, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s in!