Complete Panda Express orange chicken Recipe & more.
When people think about Panda Express, the first thing that comes to mind is always Orange Chicken. Every year, Panda Express sells millions of pounds of it. People love its sweet, tangy and slightly spicy flavour. The thing which makes it perfect is its perfect mix; the chicken bites are coated in a sticky orange glaze.
It is more than just fried chicken with sauces. People said that it is not just a food, but it is a source of happiness for them. When someone talks about Panda Express, the first thing that comes to mind is Orange Chicken. Another reason for its popularity is that it creates an emotional connection.
Crispy fried chicken bites dipped in the sweet, tangy flavored thick sauce are called Panda Express orange chicken. It is considered the signature dish. It has a major part in the contribution to Panda Express’s success.
This dish was originally found in North America, in a Chinese food restaurant. At first, it consisted of bony and skinny chicken, but later on, it was adapted to boneless and skinless chicken.
It brings back childhood memories of people eating with their families. This dish has become a part of American culture. It also shows how Chinese flavour can be loved by millions. On the menu of the Panda Express, the Orange Chicken is the most popular item. On social media, people love to post about it.
The Unexpected Birth of Panda Express Orange Chicken
At Panda Express Orange Chicken was first made in 1987 by chef Andy Kao. Andy Kao wants to create a dish which has both Chinese and American flavours at the same time. To do it practically, he took crispy fried chicken and mixed it with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. For the customers, it was a new experience. It has an exciting flavour, which makes it popular among them.
People love it and soon it became the most popular item on the menu of Panda Express. After that, with the passage of time, it became the symbol of American-Chinese cuisine. These changes also show that the two different traditions will be mixed and create something new for their customers. The chef Andy Kao not just created a tasty recipe, but he gave people a new and exciting flavour by mixing two different food traditions.
The sweet flavour felt the same to American diners, and the crispy spices gave people a Chinese flavour. This balance is why the dish stood out from the start. It is not just a fast food option; it was something new. This dish defines Panda Express Orange Chicken as a brand.
Why Panda Express Orange Chicken Became Famous
Unique Flavour Profile
The reason for its popularity is its taste. There is a balance in sweet and sour sauces, which feels exciting. There is a perfect crispy chicken texture that makes every bite satisfying to people. The kids and adults both like it in the same way.
Accessibility
Another reason for its popularity is that it is affordable. Orange Chicken can be enjoyed by anyone without spending much money like other fancy restaurants. This made it easy for people from all backgrounds. Panda Express provides special flavours in a fast-food range.
Consistency
The taste of Orange Chicken remains the same no matter where you go. People like it for its quality. It has the same flavour and taste whether you are in California, New York or Texas. This quality builds trust with customers, and they keep coming back. People know that they can get the same taste every time.
Marketing and Pop Culture
Panda Express also made Orange Chicken famous through smart marketing. The company highlights it in ads, promotions, and sometimes gives a limited-time orange Chicken Burrito. It has now become the face of the brand. Its image shows up everywhere, like billboards and TV commercials.
Viral Appeal
In recent years, social media has given Orange Chicken a whole new level of fame. On social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, people share recipes and fun videos. These viral trends make Orange Chicken more famous across the world.
Ingredients Breakdown of Panda Express Orange Chicken
Chicken
In the ingredients of Panda Express Orange Chicken, the main ingredient is chicken. To make the dish more flavorful and exciting, Panda Express uses boneless chicken. This boneless chicken absorbs all the sauce evenly and makes it more flavorful.
Breading
Before frying, the chicken pieces are coated in a layer of cornstarch. It creates a crunchy outer shell that is loved by everyone. This step also helps the orange sauce stick to the chicken. The dish would not have the same taste without this coating.
Orange Sauce
Orange sauce is another ingredient of this recipe. This sauce is the major element of the dish. The main ingredients of the sauce are orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice, vinegar, garlic and chilli flakes. It has both a sweet and sour taste. The fresh orange flavour makes the dish more flavorful.
Oil
At the final step, the chicken is fried in hot oil. It is fried until it becomes golden and crispy. Deep frying makes the chicken crunchy and gives it a unique texture. It also locks juiciness in it. It also gives a rich and satisfying taste to the dish. With the sticky orange glaze, it pairs so well.
Nutritional Information (per 5.7 oz serving)
You must know what you are eating, right? It will help you to be aware of your diet and health. That’s why, here I have mentioned a dietary information of the Orange chicken for you. You must explore it:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 490g |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbohydrate | 51g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Sugar | 19g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
How Panda Express Makes Orange Chicken
Preparation
For the preparation of this dish, the meat is first cut into small, bite-sized chunks. The smaller pieces help to cook quickly and evenly. It also helps in keeping the juice inside.
Breading and Frying
Each piece of chicken is lightly coated with cornstarch, which gives it a crisp texture. The chicken is then deep-fried until golden brown and crunchy on the outside.
Sauce Creation
The sauce is prepared at the next step. The method of preparing is to mix all ingredients like orange juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce and chilli. After that, when the sauce is ready, the crispy chicken is added to the wok. The chicken is mixed in it until every piece is coated well in the sauce.
Serving
Finally, the orange Chicken is served hot. It is served with steamed rice, chowmein or fresh vegetables. This pair makes the meal more satisfying and exciting.
DIY Panda Express Orange Chicken (Homemade Version)
So many people want and love to make this amazing dish at home. So if you want to recreate this dish at home, follow some simple and important steps so you can enjoy its flavour as if it were in a restaurant.
- At the first step, fry the chicken pieces. Make sure the chicken pieces are battered in cornstarch. Fry the chicken well until it becomes golden and crispy.
- In another pan, make the sauce. Mix orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger and sugar. Cook it until the flavour comes together.
- Add a little cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce. Adding cornstarch to the sauce will thicken it and give the dish a glossy look.
- After the sauce is prepared, mix the crispy chicken with the sauce. Make sure that every piece of chicken is coated evenly in the sauce.
- When your dish is ready, garnish it by sprinkling sesame seeds or some chopped green onions. This will add extra flavour and a nice look to the dish.
Panda Express Orange Chicken vs. Other Favourites
| Dish | Flavor | Key Difference from Orange Chicken |
| Sweet and sour Chicken | Light, tangy, more vinegar forward | Orange chicken is richer and has a zesty citrus glaze |
| General Tso’s Chicken | Spicy, bold, slightly sweet | Orange chicken is sweetener and focused on citrus flavors instead of heat |
| Kung Pao Chicken | Savory, spicy, includes peanuts and veggies | Orange chicken is all about crispy chicken with sauce, no extra vegetables or nuts |
| Sesame Chicken | Sweet, nutty, with sesame seed topping | Orange chicken is more citrusy and tangy while sesame chicken is sweeter and milder |
| Teriyaki Chicken | Savory, slightly sweet, soy based glaze | Orange chicken is deep fried and tangy, while Teriyaki chicken is grilled and more savory. |
Best Pairings with Panda Express Orange Chicken
Chowmein
At Panda Express, the best and most loved combo is Orange Chicken with Chowmein. When these fried noodles are added with cabbage, onion and celery, it gives balance to the crispy chicken. Together, these dishes make the meal more saucy and crunchy and create an amazing flavour for the customers.
Fried Rice
Many customers like orange chicken with rice. The fried rice with the orange chicken adds a unique taste and texture. With eggs, peas, carrots and soy sauce, the rice is mixed. In this way, you can enjoy both the sweetness of chicken and savoury rice. By adding these, the meal becomes more satisfying and tasty.
Super Greens
People who want to eat something light can choose super Greens from Panda Express. When Orange Chicken mixes with broccoli, kale and cabbage, it gives out a balanced taste. It is a healthier option that gives freshness to the meal while the chicken still shines.
Spring Rolls or Cream Cheese Rangoons
Spring rolls and cream cheese rangoons are used as appetisers. These make a perfect blend with orange chicken. The crispy rolls are packed with veggies, and the rangoons have a creamy and crunchy bite. These appetisers feel complete and more enjoyable.
Ordering & Price Hacks
Prices at Panda Express can be slightly different depending on where you are, but in most places, a bowl costs around $9-10, and a plate is about $11-12. The good news is that there are some smart tricks to get more value out of your meal.
Half and half sides
You can ask for half chowmein and half super Greens instead of choosing one side. In this way, you can get the best taste. It makes a perfect balance like noodles with lighter veggies.
Double Orange Chicken
If you are a true fan, you can actually order orange chicken for both entree spots on a plate. Many people do this when they just can’t get enough of the famous dish.
Kids Meal Option
For a smaller appetite, the kids’ meal is a great choice. It comes with a side, one entree, a drink and even a little dessert, making it both affordable and filling. Adults sometimes order it too when they want a lighter portion.
App Deal
The Panda Express app is worth checking because it often has special offers. You will sometimes find buy one get one deals on orange chicken bowls or discounts on family meals, which is perfect if you are eating with friends or family.
Ingredients & Allergen Information Of Panda Express Orange Chicken
It is important to check the allergen details of orange chicken. People with food sensitivities must check it properly. According to Panda Express’s official ingredients list for 2024, it contains several common allergens.
- Eggs: The eggs are used in the batter, which is used to coat the chicken.
- Milk: Milk powder is added to the bread.
- Soy: It is found in the soy sauce that gives flavour to the glaze.
- Wheat: It is found in the flour that is used in breading.
- Sesame: it may be present in the sauce through sesame oil or seeds.
Panda Express also explains that all its food is cooked using shared equipment. This means there is always a chance of cross-contact with other allergens. People with serious food allergies, this information is very important when deciding what to order.
Drinks Options with Panda Express Orange Chicken
You can also add these drinks with your meal.
Iced Green Tea or Lemon Tea
It is a refreshing drink, which includes a blend of iced green tea or lemon. These ingredients make it perfect for summers. It also helps you feel a more soothing vibe.
Fizzing Water with Lemon
Fizzing water with lemon is also a perfect combo. If you have eaten a lot then you can drink it for better digestion.
Light Orange Soda
This cool and dazzling drink will add more saltiness to your orange chicken.
Leftovers: Storage & Reheating
A lot of people wonder what to do with leftover Orange Chicken. You can store the dish by following some simple steps. If you handle it in the right way, you can store it and enjoy its taste when you need it.
Storage
After eating, put the leftovers in the fridge within 2 hours. To keep it fresh, always use an airtight container.
Shelf Life
You should finish the leftovers within 3-4 days, which follows USDA food safety guidelines. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze orange Chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Use an oven or air fryer at 350-375°F for about 6-10 minutes. This makes the chicken crispy again, like it’s fresh.
In a hot pan or wok, heat it with some orange juice. This adds back shine and a little extra flavour.
Avoid microwaves because they make the chicken soft and soggy. Only use it when you are in a rush.
Variations & Limited-Time Offerings (LTOs)
Hot Orange Chicken (spicy Edition)
Panda Express will bring a special version of its classic dish called “ Hot Orange Chicken” in July 2025. This edition became famous by adding more dried and crushed red chillies. It still has the same sweet and citrus flavour. The dish was available nationwide from July 9 to September 30, 2025. It was featured at a special “Orange Chicken Kitchen” pop-up in New York City to celebrate National Orange Chicken Day on July 15.
Beyond the original Orange Chicken (plant-based)
Panda Express also introduced a plant-based version of Orange Chicken in partnership with Beyond Meat. It was first tested in 2021 and 2022, then came back nationwide in July 2024 with more regional launches in October 2024. This version looks, tastes and feels like the original, but it is made with plant-based protein instead of real chicken. It is perfect for vegetarians.
Innovation Kitchen Exclusive
At the Panda Express Innovation Kitchen in Pasadena, California, chefs experiment with fun new twists on Orange Chicken. Some of the creations include an orange Chicken Burrito, Orange Chicken Bao buns and even Orange Chicken pockets. These versions are not sold everywhere, but when they appear, they keep the fans excited.
Conclusion
Panda Express Orange Chicken is more than just something you order. Now it has become a cultural icon that is loved by people. Orange Chicken was first created in the 1980s. This beautiful blend of two traditions creates an amazing flavour. You can taste it in almost every situation.
You can sit down and enjoy it at a Panda Express restaurant or bring it home for a family dinner. Fans are also experimenting with this at home. In short, the Orange Chicken is not just a food, it is a flavour experience which brings happiness and excitement to the customers. That is why it has remained a favourite for everyone for many years.