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Homemade Orange Chicken (Better Than Panda Express)

Crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, tangy orange glaze—this homemade orange chicken tastes fresher, brighter, and even better than Panda Express. Easy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Print Recipe
Calories: 410
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Oil for frying
  • For the Orange Sauce:
  • 1 cup orange juice fresh preferred
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water for slurry

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add chicken and coat evenly.
  4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot.
  5. Fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy.
  6. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel to drain excess oil.
  7. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, sugar/honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  8. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  9. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
  10. Pour slurry into the sauce while stirring continuously.
  11. Simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  12. Add crispy chicken to the saucepan.
  13. Toss gently until every piece is coated.
  14. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Notes

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat in cornstarch before frying.
• Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor.
• Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy version.
• Air-fryer option: cook chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
• For a healthier version, bake chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes.
• Add veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for a full meal-in-one.
 
Approx nutrition per serving: Carbs 45g – Protein 28g – Fat 12g – Fiber 1g
 

🔸 Times & Servings

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 410 per serving