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Panda Express Orange Chicken: A delicious and iconic dish
When it comes to satisfying a craving for a tasty, filling, and affordable meal, Panda Express is the first choice for many. Founded in 1983 by Asian-American immigrants Andrew and Peggy Cherng, Panda Express has become a popular Chinese-inspired fast-food chain that offers a variety of dishes. But one item stands out as the undisputed star of the menu: orange chicken.
What is Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Panda Express’ Orange Chicken is a delicious dish that combines crispy battered and fried chicken with a sweet and spicy orange-scented sauce. While the recipe is not authentically Chinese, it pays homage to the flavors of Hunan Province. The dish has become a staple of Chinese-American cuisine and is loved by diners for its delightful combination of textures and flavors.
The origins of Panda Express Orange Chicken
Surprisingly, Orange Chicken hasn’t been around for very long. The original recipe was invented in 1987 by former Panda Express executive chef Andy Kao at a location in Hawaii. Inspired by Hawaiian and Hunan cuisines, Chef Kao experimented with different versions of chicken cooked with fresh, locally grown citrus. The boneless version of the dish, based on customer feedback, became a hit and made its way back to California, where it gained immense popularity. Today, Panda Express sells nearly 100 million pounds of Orange Chicken annually.
The taste of Panda Express Orange Chicken
The secret to the success of Panda Express’ Orange Chicken is its delicious taste. The chicken itself is made from dark thigh meat, which ensures tenderness and juiciness. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the succulent interior. The iconic orange sauce strikes a perfect balance between citrus sweetness, acidity, and a hint of heat and umami. Many diners find that the dish is not overly sweet or spicy, making it an enjoyable and satisfying meal.
The Making of Panda Express Orange Chicken
Ever wondered how Panda Express makes its famous orange chicken? The process starts with 1-inch pieces of chicken thigh that are coated with a perfect amount of batter made from salt, white pepper, cornstarch, flour, oil, egg and water. The chicken is then fried until golden and crispy. Meanwhile, the orange sauce is prepared in a hot wok with sautéed ginger, garlic, and chili flakes, followed by the addition of sugar, orange juice, vinegar, soy sauce, and a cornstarch slurry. Finally, the chicken is tossed in the spicy sauce until thoroughly coated and ready to enjoy.
The cost of Panda Express Orange Chicken
One of the best things about Panda Express’ orange chicken is its affordability. At any of the chain’s more than 2,200 locations, customers can choose from a variety of portion sizes. A bowl with one entree and one side costs about $6, while a plate with two entrees and one side costs $10. You can also order orange chicken a la carte, which ranges from $4 to $10. These prices make it an excellent option for a tasty and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Nutrition information
While Panda Express Orange Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s important to note its nutritional information. A 5.7-ounce serving of Orange Chicken has 490 calories, including 210 calories from fat. It also contains over 800 milligrams of sodium, 80 milligrams of cholesterol, and 19 grams of sugar. However, the dish does provide a substantial 25 grams of protein. For those looking for a lighter option, Panda Express offers a choice of serving the chicken with steamed rice or “super greens” consisting of broccoli, kale and cabbage.
Bottom line
Panda Express’ Orange Chicken has become an iconic and popular dish that has delighted taste buds around the world. With its crispy chicken, tangy orange sauce and affordable prices, it’s no wonder it remains the chain’s bestseller. Whether you’re a fan of classic meat dishes or prefer plant-based options, Panda Express has something for everyone. So the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and satisfying meal, try their Orange Chicken and experience the flavors that have made it a Chinese-American culinary staple.
FAQS
No, Panda Express Orange Chicken is not authentically Chinese. It is inspired by the flavors found in the food of Hunan Province, but has its own unique twist.
What makes Panda Express Orange Chicken so delicious?
Panda Express’ Orange Chicken is known for its crispy battered and fried chicken paired with a sweet and spicy orange-scented sauce. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful taste experience.
How long has Orange Chicken been on the Panda Express menu?
Orange Chicken was added to the Panda Express menu in 1987. It was invented by the chain’s former executive chef, Andy Kao, during a culinary research trip to Hawaii.
How much does Panda Express Orange Chicken cost?
The cost of Panda Express Orange Chicken varies by portion size and location. A bowl with one entree and one side typically costs about $6, while a plate with two entrees and one side costs $10. Ordering orange chicken a la carte can range from $4 to $10.
What is the nutritional information for Panda Express Orange Chicken?
A 5.7-ounce serving of Panda Express Orange Chicken has 490 calories, including 210 calories from fat. It also has over 800 milligrams of sodium, 80 milligrams of cholesterol, and 19 grams of sugar. However, it does provide 25 grams of protein.
Are there any lighter options to go with the Panda Express Orange Chicken?
Yes, Panda Express offers the option to pair the Orange Chicken with steamed rice or “super greens” consisting of broccoli, kale and cabbage. These options provide a lighter alternative for those looking to reduce calories and fat.