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Baked Orange Chicken made with Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce

Baked Orange Chicken made with Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce
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Baked Orange Chicken made with Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce is a healthier, easy-to-make version of the iconic sweet, tangy, and crispy takeout favorite. This recipe features tender baked chicken bites coated in a sticky, flavorful orange sauce that perfectly balances sweetness, acidity, and a hint of spice. Ideal for family dinners, it offers a crispy texture without frying, making it delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour/gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Orange Chicken Sauce

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably not from concentrate)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for spiciness)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well and results in a crispy finish. Set up a breading station with beaten eggs in one bowl and flour in another. Dredge each piece of chicken first in the egg, then coat evenly with flour.
  2. Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken pieces on a greased baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper. Arrange them spaced apart to ensure even cooking. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through to achieve a golden, crispy exterior on both sides.
  3. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is baking, combine fresh orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to cook, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is baked crispy, transfer it to a large bowl and toss with the warm orange sauce, coating each piece thoroughly. This step seals in flavor and lends the chicken its signature glossy, sticky finish.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the coated chicken with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added freshness, texture, and visual appeal. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry to prevent sogginess and ensure a crispier coating.
  • Use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate for optimal flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; space out chicken pieces to promote even baking and crispiness.
  • Make the orange sauce ahead of time to save prep time and enhance flavor melding.
  • Adjust sweetness and tanginess by tasting the sauce before combining with chicken and modifying brown sugar or vinegar as needed.
  • For extra crispy coating, consider adding panko breadcrumbs to the flour mix.
  • To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
  • For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha to the sauce while cooking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet or bake at 350°F (175°C) with a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture and crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Orange chicken, baked orange chicken, Panda Express copycat, healthy orange chicken, crispy baked chicken, gluten-free orange chicken, sweet and tangy chicken

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/baked-orange-chicken-made-with-panda-express-orange-chicken-copycat-sauce/