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To make Panda Express Orange Chicken at home, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients create the dish's unique taste and texture.

Panda Express Orange Chicken

Bring the taste of Panda Express Orange Chicken right into your kitchen with this flavorful homemade recipe. Learn how to create the perfect crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce using simple ingredients you probably already have. Impress your family with this easy-to-follow guide, complete with cooking tips and serving suggestions. Click to explore the full recipe and start cooking today!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup cornstarch

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ginger powder

1 large egg, beaten

1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

1 cup fresh orange juice

Zest of 1 orange

1/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Mix well.

    Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture. Set aside.

      In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding, and fry until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.

        In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture is slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

          Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook until the sauce thickens further (about 2-3 minutes). Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired for some heat.

            Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Cook for another 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.

              Remove from heat and transfer the coated orange chicken to a serving dish.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the Orange Chicken over a bed of steamed white rice or fried rice, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy with a side of sweet chili sauce for extra dipping!