This copycat orange chicken is crispy, sticky, sweet, and just a little spicy, the kind of dinner that looks and smells like takeaways but is homemade.

If your family loves Panda Express-style orange chicken, this one’s a winner. It has that crunchy chicken, glossy orange sauce, and bold flavor that feels like takeout… without the takeout bill. And bonus: you know exactly what’s going into it.

This is one of those recipes I pull out on busy nights when I want something fun but still homemade. It comes together fast, smells amazing, and pairs perfectly with a big bowl of fluffy white rice. Trust me, leftovers don’t last long around here.

Copycat Panda Express-Style Orange Chicken

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Here’s What You’ll Need

For the Crispy Chicken

2½ cups boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 large eggs
Pinch of salt and black pepper
½ cup cornstarch
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or sunflower)

For the Orange Sauce

1 tbsp neutral oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1½ tbsp grated ginger + garlic (or paste)
1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Juice and zest of 2 oranges
2½ tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
⅔ cup water
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp warm water

For Garnishing

Cooked white rice
Green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Beat the eggs in a bowl. In a second bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.

2. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat well in the cornstarch-flour mixture.

chicken pieces being coated in egg and cornstarch-flour mixture

3. Heat oil for deep frying. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

4. In a wok or large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add onion, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes. Sauté until fragrant.

Sautéing onion, ginger, garlic, chili flakes in pan

5. Pour in the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and looks glossy.

7. Add the fried chicken and toss until every piece is coated in that dreamy orange sauce.

coating fried chicken pieces in orange sauce

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over white rice.

FAQ + Variations

Can I make this less spicy?
Absolutely. Just cut back or skip the chili flakes. Still full of flavor, kid-approved too.

Can I use chicken breast or thighs?
Both work great. Thighs stay extra juicy, but breast is perfect if that’s what you have.

Can I bake or air fry the chicken?
Yes! For air frying, spray the coated chicken with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) until crispy, flipping halfway. Baking works too, but air frying gives the best crunch.

Want it extra orange-y?
Add a little more zest to the sauce. That bright citrus flavor really pops.

Make it a full meal
Serve with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a simple veggie stir-fry on the side.

This copycat orange chicken brings big takeout vibes straight to your kitchen — comfy, fun, and totally family-approved

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Copycat Orange Chicken

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