Description
This Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken delivers irresistible flavor with chicken thighs coated in a zesty orange sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner that satisfies the whole family!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup canola oil or vegetable oil more if needed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup distilled vinegar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons orange extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon ginger paste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon orange zest about 1 medium orange
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag. Sprinkle with garlic salt.
- Add the egg and massage it into the chicken.
- Add the cornstarch and flour, seal the bag, and shake to coat the chicken evenly.
- In a bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, orange extract, additional cornstarch, garlic, ginger paste, red pepper flakes, and orange zest.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook for 7-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Pour the orange sauce into the skillet and heat for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss in the sauce for 2 minutes until well coated. Garnish with red pepper flakes and serve over rice.
Notes
Consider using chicken breast for a leaner option.
Adjust the red pepper flakes for less or more spice based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg