orange chicken recipe panda express

Orange Chicken Recipe

Crispy, citrusy, and perfectly sweet–savory, this Orange Chicken delivers all the flavor of your favorite takeout with fresher ingredients and a lighter, homemade touch. Tender chicken bites fry up golden and crunchy, then get coated in a glossy orange glaze made from real orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or satisfying Panda Express–style cravings at home. Explore similar recipes like Orange Chicken Recipe for any occasion.

orange chicken recipe without frying
orange chicken recipe without frying

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

For the Orange Sauce

  • ¾ cup orange juice (fresh or no-pulp recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnish

  • Chopped scallions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Extra orange zest

Directions

Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss well with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated.

Make the Orange Sauce

In a bowl, whisk orange juice, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes until smooth.

Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add half the chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Remove to a plate. Add remaining oil and repeat with the second batch.

Combine With Sauce

Turn off the heat. Pour the orange sauce into the skillet— it will thicken quickly. Stir and scrape up any browned bits.

Coat the Chicken

Return all cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss until completely coated in the glossy orange glaze.

Serve

Serve over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with scallions or sesame seeds.

orange chicken recipe crockpot
orange chicken recipe crockpot

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Best Served With: Jasmine rice, fried rice, lo mein noodles, stir-fried vegetables