Easy Orange Chicken
If they know you by name and order at your local Panda Express, this recipe is for you.
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time30 minutes mins
Total Time45 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Chinese
Keyword: orange chicken, panda express
Servings: 2
Calories: 685kcal
- neutral oil for deep frying, enough to fill 2"
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite size pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup sugar of choice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- orange zest optional, to garnish
Heat 2 inches of neutral high heat oil in a high sided, heavy bottomed pot over medium-high heat, until the oil reaches 350°F.Meanwhile, season the chicken with salt and pepper then toss in the cornstarch, pressing to evenly coat. Shake off any excess and set aside the coated pieces on a plate. Prepare a baking sheet or plate with paper towels or a wire rack for the fried chicken. Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to crowd the oil. Cook until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Flip the pieces as needed. When cooked, carefully remove and set the pieces on your prepared plate/baking sheet. Repeat until all the chicken is ready, then keep the chicken warm in a low oven.
Add the orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, and ginger powder to a large non-stick skillet. Whisk well over medium heat. Let the sauce start to bubble and thicken until it turns glossy and clear. Remove the pan from the heat.
Add the chicken to the sauce and toss throughly. Add the orange zest, if using, then enjoy immediately!
Calories: 685kcal | Carbohydrates: 63.5g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 29.7g | Saturated Fat: 1.8g | Cholesterol: 180mg | Sodium: 906mg | Potassium: 187mg | Fiber: 0.8g | Sugar: 30.8g