Panda Express, a renowned fast-food chain, has been serving mouth-watering Chinese-American dishes for decades. Among its vast array of menu items, one dish stands out for its enticing flavor and aroma: the orange chicken. But what is the orange chicken at Panda Express called? In this article, we will delve into the world of Panda Express’s signature dish, exploring its origins, ingredients, and the secrets behind its irresistible taste.
Introduction to Panda Express and Its Menu
Panda Express is a popular fast-food chain with over 2,000 locations worldwide. Founded in 1983 by Andrew and Peggy Cherng, the restaurant has become synonymous with Chinese-American cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including entrees, sides, and desserts, all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. From the savory beef and broccoli to the sweet and sour pork, Panda Express offers something for every palate.
The Birth of Orange Chicken
The orange chicken, a dish that has become an iconic symbol of Panda Express, was created by the company’s chef, Andy Kao, in the 1980s. Kao, a Chinese immigrant, drew inspiration from traditional Sichuan cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and spices. He experimented with various ingredients, including soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, to create a unique sauce that would complement the crispy fried chicken. The result was a dish that was both sweet and savory, with a hint of spice that would leave customers craving for more.
Ingredients and Preparation
So, what makes the orange chicken at Panda Express so special? The dish consists of crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and sour orange sauce, made with a combination of ingredients including soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and orange juice. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of cornstarch, eggs, and vegetable oil before being deep-fried to a golden brown perfection. The sauce, which is the star of the show, is prepared by combining the ingredients in a wok and simmering them until the sauce thickens. The resulting dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the crispy chicken providing a satisfying crunch and the sauce adding a tangy and sweet element.
The Name: Original Orange Chicken
The orange chicken at Panda Express is officially known as the Original Orange Chicken. This name reflects the dish’s status as a pioneering creation in the world of Chinese-American cuisine. The Original Orange Chicken has become a staple on the Panda Express menu, with millions of servings sold worldwide every year. The dish has also inspired numerous variations and imitations, with many restaurants attempting to recreate the magic of Panda Express’s signature sauce.
Variations and Limited-Time Offers
While the Original Orange Chicken remains a constant on the Panda Express menu, the restaurant has introduced various limited-time offers and variations over the years. These include Grilled Orange Chicken, which features grilled chicken instead of fried, and Orange Chicken Salad, which adds a fresh twist to the classic dish. These variations have helped to keep the menu fresh and exciting, while also allowing customers to experience the orange chicken in new and innovative ways.
Nutritional Information and Allergens
For health-conscious customers, it’s essential to note that the Original Orange Chicken contains 340 calories, 19g of fat, and 25g of protein per serving. The dish also contains common allergens such as soy, wheat, and eggs. Customers with dietary restrictions or allergies should consult the Panda Express website or consult with restaurant staff to ensure that their meal is prepared safely and according to their needs.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the orange chicken at Panda Express is a culinary masterpiece that has captured the hearts and taste buds of millions. The Original Orange Chicken is a dish that has been perfected over the years, with a unique sauce and cooking technique that sets it apart from other Chinese-American dishes. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Panda Express or just discovering the joys of orange chicken, this article has provided you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the dish. So, the next time you visit Panda Express, be sure to try the Original Orange Chicken and experience the delicious journey for yourself.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Fat | 19g |
| Protein | 25g |
By understanding the origins, ingredients, and preparation of the orange chicken, we can appreciate the dedication and expertise that goes into creating this beloved dish. As we continue to indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of the Original Orange Chicken, we honor the culinary traditions and innovations that have made Panda Express a household name.
What is the origin of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken?
Panda Express’s Orange Chicken is a signature dish that has been a staple on the menu since 1987. The dish was created by Andrew Cherng, the co-founder of Panda Express, and his wife Peggy. They developed the recipe as a variation of a traditional Chinese dish called “orange peel chicken,” which originated from the Hunan province in China. The Cherngs experimented with different ingredients and cooking techniques to create a unique flavor profile that would appeal to American palates.
The original Orange Chicken recipe consisted of crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and sour orange sauce, made with a combination of soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and orange peel. The dish quickly gained popularity, and it became a signature item on the Panda Express menu. Over the years, the recipe has undergone some modifications, but the core ingredients and cooking techniques have remained the same. Today, Orange Chicken is one of the most popular items on the Panda Express menu, and it is widely recognized as a iconic Chinese-American dish.
What are the key ingredients in Panda Express’s Orange Chicken?
The key ingredients in Panda Express’s Orange Chicken include chicken breast or thigh meat, cornstarch, eggs, vegetable oil, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, orange peel, and garlic. The chicken pieces are first marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch, then dredged in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. The orange sauce is made by combining soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and orange peel in a specific ratio, and then simmering the mixture until it thickens. The sauce is then tossed with the fried chicken pieces to coat them evenly.
The quality and freshness of the ingredients are crucial to the flavor and texture of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken. The company uses a proprietary blend of spices and seasonings that are sourced from reputable suppliers. The chicken is also cooked to a high standard of quality, with a focus on achieving the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. The orange sauce is made in-house, using a secret recipe that has been refined over the years to achieve the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
How does Panda Express prepare its Orange Chicken?
Panda Express prepares its Orange Chicken using a multi-step process that involves marinating, breading, and deep-frying the chicken pieces. First, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch to add flavor and tenderize the meat. Then, the chicken pieces are dredged in a light batter made from flour, cornstarch, and eggs, which helps to create a crispy exterior. The battered chicken pieces are then deep-fried in vegetable oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
After the chicken is fried, it is tossed in the orange sauce, which is made by combining soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and orange peel in a specific ratio. The sauce is simmered until it thickens, and then it is tossed with the fried chicken pieces to coat them evenly. The Orange Chicken is then served hot, garnished with sliced green onions and orange peel. Panda Express uses a proprietary cooking process that involves a combination of wok-searing and deep-frying to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Can I make Panda Express’s Orange Chicken at home?
Yes, you can make Panda Express’s Orange Chicken at home using a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. The key to making a good Orange Chicken is to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the recipe carefully. You will need chicken breast or thigh meat, cornstarch, eggs, vegetable oil, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, orange peel, and garlic. You can also use a store-bought orange sauce or make your own using a combination of soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and orange peel.
To make Orange Chicken at home, start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. Then, dredge the chicken pieces in a light batter made from flour, cornstarch, and eggs, and deep-fry them in vegetable oil until they are golden brown and crispy. While the chicken is frying, prepare the orange sauce by combining soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and orange peel in a saucepan and simmering the mixture until it thickens. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the orange sauce to coat them evenly, and serve hot garnished with sliced green onions and orange peel.
What are some variations of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken?
There are several variations of Panda Express’s Orange Chicken that you can try, including grilled Orange Chicken, baked Orange Chicken, and vegetarian Orange Chicken. Grilled Orange Chicken is made by grilling the chicken pieces instead of deep-frying them, which gives the dish a smoky flavor and a lower calorie count. Baked Orange Chicken is made by baking the chicken pieces in the oven instead of deep-frying them, which is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Vegetarian Orange Chicken is made by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh, which is a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
These variations can be made at home using a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. To make grilled Orange Chicken, marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch, then grill them until they are cooked through. To make baked Orange Chicken, marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch, then bake them in the oven until they are cooked through. To make vegetarian Orange Chicken, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch, then deep-fry or bake it until it is golden brown and crispy.
Is Panda Express’s Orange Chicken healthy?
Panda Express’s Orange Chicken is a high-calorie dish that is deep-fried and contains a significant amount of sugar and sodium. A single serving of Orange Chicken contains around 400 calories, 20g of fat, and 600mg of sodium. However, it is also a good source of protein and fiber, and it contains some essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and calcium. To make Orange Chicken healthier, you can try baking or grilling the chicken instead of deep-frying it, and reducing the amount of sugar and sodium in the sauce.
To make a healthier version of Orange Chicken at home, start by using leaner protein sources like chicken breast or tofu, and reducing the amount of oil used in the recipe. You can also use a low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce. Additionally, you can add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the dish to increase the nutrient content. By making a few simple modifications to the recipe, you can enjoy a healthier and more balanced version of Orange Chicken that is low in calories and high in nutrients.
Can I customize Panda Express’s Orange Chicken to suit my taste preferences?
Yes, you can customize Panda Express’s Orange Chicken to suit your taste preferences by modifying the sauce or adding some extra ingredients. If you prefer a spicier Orange Chicken, you can add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter Orange Chicken, you can add some honey or sugar to the sauce. You can also add some extra ingredients like diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped green onions to the dish to give it more flavor and texture.
To customize Orange Chicken at home, start by making the basic recipe, then adjust the sauce to taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add some cornstarch or flour to thicken it. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add some water or broth to thin it out. You can also experiment with different ingredients like garlic, ginger, or citrus zest to give the dish more flavor. By customizing the recipe to suit your taste preferences, you can enjoy a unique and delicious version of Orange Chicken that is tailored to your tastes.