Name: Irresistible Hot Orange Chicken: Easy Panda Express Copycat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized cubes); ½ cup flour (provides a sturdy base for the crispy coating); ½ cup cornstarch (enhances crunchiness); ¾ cup sugar (try brown sugar for richer depth); ½ cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free); ½ cup orange juice (fresh juice is best); 2 tablespoons vinegar (rice vinegar is a tasty substitute); 1 tablespoon minced garlic (adds aromatic kick); 1 tablespoon ginger (adds zesty warmth); to taste chili peppers (dried/red pepper flakes) (adjust according to desired spice level); 1 cup cooking oil (canola or vegetable oil)

As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar sizzle of frying chicken filled the air, colliding with the sweet, tangy aroma of orange sauce drifting towards me like a warm embrace. This Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) is my go-to recipe for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or fun. Whether I’m hosting friends or just craving a cozy night in, this dish is easy to get right and customizable for every spice lover. With its crispy exterior and mouthwatering, sticky sauce, I can bring a taste of my favorite takeout straight to my table in under 30 minutes. Does it get any better than that? Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that promises to elevate your weeknight meals!

Why is Hot Orange Chicken a must-try?

Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have a lot of time to spare.

Customizable Spice Level: Whether you prefer a mild kick or something that sets your taste buds ablaze, you can easily adjust the chili peppers to suit your heat tolerance.

Crispy Texture: The combination of flour and cornstarch provides an irresistible crunch, while the sticky orange sauce envelops the chicken in flavor, reminiscent of your favorite takeout.

Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, whether you’re serving it over rice or noodles. Make it even better with a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds on top!

Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the rich flavors while keeping it homemade—this is a much healthier version of high-calorie restaurant meals. If you’re also exploring delightful chicken dishes, check out Honey Garlic Chicken or Crack Chicken Tenders for more tasty options!

Hot Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken – boneless chicken thighs work great for a juicier bite.

For the Breading
• Flour – provides a sturdy base for the crispy coating.
• Cornstarch – enhances crunchiness, making your Hot Orange Chicken extra crispy.

For the Sauce
• Sugar – balances the heat and tang of your dish; try brown sugar for richer depth.
• Soy Sauce – adds umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
• Orange Juice – the star ingredient that delivers tanginess; fresh juice is best for a vibrant taste.
• Chili Peppers (dried/red pepper flakes) – adjust according to your desired spice level.
• Garlic – fresh garlic gives an aromatic kick to the sauce.
• Ginger – adds a zesty warmth, perfect when fresh.
• Vinegar – balances sweetness; rice vinegar is a tasty substitute for white vinegar.

For Cooking
• Cooking Oil – essential for frying; vegetable oil can replace canola oil if needed.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of sugar, ½ cup of soy sauce, ½ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and ginger. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth blend. This delicious sauce will be the star of your Hot Orange Chicken, adding that sweet and tangy flavor you love.

Step 2: Prep and Bread the Chicken
Cut 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized cubes, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking. In a shallow dish, mix ½ cup of flour and ½ cup of cornstarch; coat each chicken piece generously, shaking off any excess. Let the breaded chicken rest on a plate for about 10 minutes to achieve a perfect crispy texture after frying.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about 1 cup of cooking oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the breaded chicken in batches, frying for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess oil to drain.

Step 4: Stir-fry the Chicken with Sauce
Remove excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons for flavor, and reduce the heat to medium. Add the fried chicken back into the pan, then pour the prepared orange sauce over it. Toss gently and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and thicken slightly, making your Hot Orange Chicken irresistibly sticky and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once thoroughly heated and well-coated, serve your Hot Orange Chicken over steamed rice or noodles. For an added burst of freshness, garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This vibrant dish not only looks appealing but is sure to delight every palate at your table!

Hot Orange Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your own twist and make this Hot Orange Chicken recipe uniquely yours!

Protein Swap: Use shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. Both options will soak up the orange sauce beautifully!
Vegetable Boost: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas during the stir-fry for added color and nutrients, creating a more balanced dish.
Heat Adjustments: Customize the spice level by using fewer chili peppers or swapping them for sweet bell peppers. This way, you’ll cater to those who prefer milder flavors.
Crispy Breading: For an ultra-crunchy texture, mix in panko breadcrumbs with your flour or cornstarch. It brings an entirely new level of crunchiness!
Alternative Sweeteners: Consider using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness, infusing a unique flavor.
Tangy Citrus Variants: Experiment with lime juice or grapefruit juice in the sauce for a refreshing citrus twist. This offers a delightful change to the traditional orange flavor!
Saucy Adventure: For an extra dimension, add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the orange sauce for an added kick that packs a punch!
Rice Alternatives: Serve the chicken on quinoa or cauliflower rice for a light and grain-free option that’s equally delicious.

If you’re looking for more ideas, consider pairing your Hot Orange Chicken with Crack Chicken Noodle for a comforting experience or try out the savory flavors of Moo Shu Chicken for a delightful dinner!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the orange sauce and bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to retain their freshness. To keep the chicken crispy, avoid coating it until just before frying. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the chicken for 3-5 minutes until golden, then stir in the pre-made orange sauce for that delicious finish. This way, you’ll have a flavor-packed dish ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Hot Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavor and texture intact. Make sure it is cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in sealed bags for up to 2 months. Flash freezing on a baking sheet before packing can help maintain the crispy texture.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or a little oil to restore crispiness. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until heated through and sauce is bubbly.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your Hot Orange Chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

What to Serve with Spicy Hot Orange Chicken?

Nothing complements the bold flavors of this crispy dish like a spread of delightful sides and refreshing drinks.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce, enhancing every bite of your chicken. It’s a classic pairing that brings balance to the meal.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed in a splash of soy sauce, these crisp green beans add a crunchy freshness that contrasts beautifully with the sticky orange chicken.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light soy and sesame dressing, these noodles provide a delightful chewiness that pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavor of the chicken.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds nutrition and a crunch. Toss them with a bit of the orange sauce for a seamless flavor connection.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and zesty, this salad brings a coolness that balances the heat of the chicken. The crunch from the cucumbers creates a delightful contrast.
Sweet and Sour Soup: A warm bowl of soup, with a hint of sweetness and tartness, complements the spicy elements of the hot orange chicken. It invites comfort and warmth into your meal.
Mint Lemonade: This light and refreshing drink quenches thirst while balancing the spice, making it the perfect beverage to enjoy alongside your flavorful feast.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this fruity treat cools the palate after the spicy chicken, offering a light and refreshing finish that everyone will love.

Expert Tips for Hot Orange Chicken

Perfectly Crispy Chicken: Make sure the oil is hot enough—around 350°F (175°C)—to achieve that golden, crunchy exterior; otherwise, you’ll end up with soggy breading.
Preparation is Key: Chop all your ingredients and measure them before you start cooking. This ensures a smoother process, especially for novice cooks creating Hot Orange Chicken.
Avoid Overcooking: Fry the chicken just until it is golden brown; overcooking can lead to dryness and a chewy texture. Remember, it will cook a little more when added to the sauce.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili peppers or use milder options if you’re cooking for those who prefer less spice. Everyone should enjoy their Hot Orange Chicken!
Sauce Thicker: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the chicken. This will enhance the overall flavor and stickiness.

Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Hot Orange Chicken?
I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for a juicier bite, but boneless chicken breasts also work well. The key is to cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

How do I store leftover Hot Orange Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the chicken cool completely before sealing the container to avoid moisture build-up, which can make it soggy.

Can I freeze Hot Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the chicken into sealed bags or containers for up to 2 months. For best results, consider flash freezing the chicken on a baking sheet first, allowing you to separate individual pieces easily.

What should I do if the chicken isn’t crispy enough after frying?
If the breading isn’t crispy, it may be due to oil not being hot enough or moisture in the breading. Ensure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken. You can also let the fried chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and retain that crispiness.

Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
Check the ingredients based on your dietary needs. For gluten-free versions, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. As always, if you’re unsure about any ingredient due to allergies, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or avoid potential allergens.

How can I adjust the spice level in Hot Orange Chicken?
To customize the heat, you can increase or decrease the amount of dried chili peppers or red pepper flakes. For a milder option, try leaving them out altogether or use a milder pepper variety. Taste your sauce before adding it to the chicken for ideal spice levels!