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Chicken (Panda Express Copycat): A Fiery Feast Made Easy Recipe

Crispy Chicken Panda Express Copycat: A Fiery Feast Recipe

This Chicken Panda Express Copycat recipe brings the crunchy and flavorful taste of takeout to your home, making it easy to enjoy a healthier option.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 cup cornstarch For light, crispy coating.
  • 0.5 cup flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Kosher or sea salt recommended.
  • 0.5 teaspoon white pepper Substitute with black pepper if needed.
  • 2 eggs eggs Beaten.
For the Orange Sauce
  • 0.5 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed.
  • 0.5 teaspoon orange zest Brightens flavor.
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Balances sweetness.
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar Can substitute with honey.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil Adds a nutty flavor.
  • Red chilies/to taste red chilies/red pepper flakes Infuses heat.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger Freshly minced.
For Garnish
  • To taste green onions Sliced.
  • To taste sesame seeds/cilantro Optional garnishes.

Equipment

  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • slotted spoon
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper. In a separate bowl, beat eggs.
  3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 375°F.
  4. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Toast red chilies in oil, then add garlic and ginger; sauté until golden.
  6. Stir in orange juice, zest, soy sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar; simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Add fried chicken to sauce, coat well, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds or cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve immediately after preparation for optimal crispiness. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers.

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