Name: Delicious Hot Orange Chicken: Easy Panda Express Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup flour (for breading); 1 large egg (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness); 1 cup fresh orange juice (or bottled); 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium for a healthier option); 2-3 pieces chili peppers (chopped, adjust spice level); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon grated ginger (fresh preferred); 1/4 cup sugar (or honey/agave); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken sauce)

Over the clattering of pans and the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the kitchen, I found myself lost in a delightful memory of my favorite takeout dish: Hot Orange Chicken. This Panda Express Copycat recipe brings the unmistakable crunch of golden-brown chicken together with a zesty, spicy orange sauce that you can customize to suit your own taste. It’s the perfect solution for an easy dinner when you’re ready to ditch fast food but still crave that restaurant-quality flavor. Plus, this recipe empowers you to whip up a dish that’s not only satisfying but also lets you control the spice level—ideal for every palate! Are you ready to transform your kitchen into an Asian-inspired bistro with this delicious creation? Let’s dive in!

Why is Hot Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Crispy Perfection: Each bite features a golden-brown crunch, making it irresistibly satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: The bold, tangy orange sauce blends sweet and spicy in an unforgettable way.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to cater to your family’s tastes. You might also enjoy adding some veggies to the mix for a splash of color!
Quick and Easy: Ideal for weeknight meals, this recipe comes together in no time, leaving you with minimal cleanup.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for impressing guests, this Hot Orange Chicken is a surefire hit at any gathering. If you love quick dinners, you’ll also want to check out my Chicken Spaghetti Cozy or Minute Chicken Fried recipes!

Hot Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken – Provides the main protein; ensure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Flour – Used for breading; creates a crispy texture. Substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent for the breading; can be substituted with a vegan alternative like flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Panko breadcrumbs – Contributes to extra crispiness. Substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed.

For the Sauce

Orange juice – Base of the sauce, offering sweetness and acidity; freshly squeezed is best, but bottled can be used.
Soy sauce – Adds depth and umami to the sauce; low-sodium versions can be substituted for a healthier option.
Chili peppers – Impart heat to the dish; adjust the quantity based on your spice preference. Dried chili flakes can also be used.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; can be substituted with garlic powder for convenience.
Ginger – Provides warmth and zing; fresh is preferred, but ground ginger can be a quick substitute.
Sugar – Balances the flavors in the sauce; use honey or agave for a natural sweetener.
Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce; readily available and can be substituted with arrowroot for grain-free diets.

With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating delightful Hot Orange Chicken that satisfies your cravings and impresses with its customizable spice level!

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

Step 1: Make the Orange Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2-3 chopped chili peppers, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes fragrant. The vibrant color and rich aroma will signal that the sauce is ready.

Step 2: Prep and Bread the Chicken
Meanwhile, prepare your chicken by cutting 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Set up a breading station with three separate bowls: one with 1 cup of flour, another with 1 beaten egg, and the last with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with panko, ensuring an even layer for maximum crunchiness.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken
In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering (about 350°F), carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy, with a thermometer reading at least 165°F. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Stir-Fry in Wok
In a large wok or frying pan, add the fried chicken to the orange sauce. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce and heated through. The vibrant orange glaze should cling beautifully to each piece, creating a luscious finish. You can also add any veggies at this stage for an extra pop of color and nourishment.

What to Serve with Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat)

Elevate your homemade dining experience with complementary sides that enhance the vibrant flavors of this beloved dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft and fragrant, it absorbs the tangy orange sauce beautifully, making every bite heavenly.
Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavor and slightly chewy texture create a delightful contrast to the chicken’s crunch while adding an Asian flair.
Wok-Tossed Veggies: A colorful medley of bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli not only adds nutrition but also vibrancy to your meal. Toss them in a splash of soy sauce for a burst of flavor!
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers bring a delightful texture and can be dipped in sweet chili sauce for added sweetness.
Mango Salad: The refreshing sweetness of mango slices mixed with crisp greens and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the Hot Orange Chicken.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A cooling side dish that brightens your palate; the crispness of cucumbers and the zing of rice vinegar complement the dish wonderfully.
Lychee Iced Tea: This fruity drink echoes the dish’s exotic vibe and can be served sweetened or unsweetened for a refreshing sip alongside your meal.
Coconut Sorbet: A light, creamy dessert to finish your feast, its tropical flavor cleanses the palate after the bold flavors of the chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Hot Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Hot Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining the zingy flavors of the orange sauce.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in the freezer to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy, then toss it in the warmed orange sauce for an irresistible finish.

Make-Ahead Tips: If you prepare the orange sauce in advance, store it in the fridge for up to one week; combine it with freshly cooked chicken when you’re ready to serve.

Hot Orange Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize this delicious Hot Orange Chicken recipe and make it your own with these fun twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap egg with a flaxseed meal mixture to keep it vegan-friendly while still achieving a great crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for the chicken breading to maintain that crispy texture without gluten.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or broccoli while stir-frying for a nutritious boost and vibrant color that complements the dish.
Sriracha Kick: Toss in a splash of sriracha sauce to the orange sauce for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate a bit of lemon zest in addition to the orange juice for a refreshing and tangy citrus flavor that brightens the sauce.
Honey Garlic: Substitute sugar with honey for a natural sweetness, and add an extra clove of garlic to enhance the overall flavor.
Noodle Style: Serve the chicken over cooked noodles instead of rice to create a completely different texture and presentation.
Buffalo Fusion: For a spicy twist, try mixing in some buffalo sauce along with the orange sauce—definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Don’t forget to check out other crowd favorites like the Mexican Rice Chicken or if you’re looking for something different yet comforting, the Chicken Bacon Ranch is always a hit! Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect version of this delightful dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep lovers! You can prepare the orange sauce up to 7 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken pieces can also be breaded and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying to save time. To maintain crispiness, make sure to fry the coated chicken fresh just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply stir-fry the fried chicken in the pre-made orange sauce for about 2-3 minutes to ensure a flavorful and restaurant-quality finish with minimal effort!

Tips for the Best Hot Orange Chicken

Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh orange juice for the sauce. It enhances the flavor and brightness of your Hot Orange Chicken, elevating the dish.
Avoid Sogginess: Fry chicken pieces in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. This prevents steaming and ensures a crispy result.
Spice Control: Adjust the amount of chili peppers based on your family’s preference. This recipe allows for customized spice levels, so feel free to experiment!
Breading Perfection: Ensure chicken pieces are coated evenly in flour, egg, and panko. A consistent breading layer helps achieve that sought-after crunch.
Rescue Leftovers: Reheat leftover chicken in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which can make it soggy.

Hot Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this Hot Orange Chicken. Look for pieces that are firm and pink without any dark spots. If you can, try to choose organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality.

What’s the best way to store leftover Hot Orange Chicken?
To keep your leftover Hot Orange Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation. This way, you’ll retain those delicious flavors for your next meal!

Can I freeze Hot Orange Chicken?
Certainly! You can freeze the chicken (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy, then toss it in your warmed orange sauce for the best flavor.

How do I achieve the crispiest chicken possible?
Very good question! To achieve ultimate crispiness, fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature. This prevents steaming and helps the breading become golden and crunchy. After frying, let the chicken rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil before coating it with sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, absolutely! For gluten-free options, replace the flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. If you have egg allergies, try a vegan alternative like flaxseed mixed with water instead of a beaten egg. Feel free to adjust the spice levels by choosing milder chili peppers or omitting them altogether.

What if I want to add vegetables to the dish?
The more the merrier! You can certainly add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli during the stir-frying step. They not only add color and nutrition but also enhance the overall texture. Just make sure to sauté them briefly to retain some crunch before mixing in the chicken and sauce.