Orange Chicken
If you’re a fan of Panda Express Orange Chicken, you’re not alone! This sweet and tangy dish has become a worldwide favorite for its perfect balance of flavors and crispy texture. Panda Express is famed for its Orange Chicken, a sweet and savory dish beloved by foodies worldwide. Whether you’re craving its crispy texture, curious about its nutritional facts, or want to recreate it at home, this guide has everything you need.
Sizes
Bowl – Base & 1 Entree
Plate – Base & 2 Entrees
Bigger Plate – Base & 2 Entrees
At Panda Express, you can enjoy Orange Chicken in various ways:
- As an Entree: A standalone portion of Orange Chicken is perfect for those who want a taste of its bold flavors.
- In a Bowl: Combine Orange Chicken with Chow Mein for a comforting, carb-rich meal or opt for Fried Rice for a classic pairing.
- With the Family Meal: Share it with loved ones by including Orange Chicken as part of the customizable Family Meal, which offers three entrees and two large sides.
Prices
A’la Carte
Varies
Bowl
6.90 $
Plate
8.40 $
Big Platter
35 $
Prices are subject to change by location
What Makes Orange Chicken Unique?
The dish is crafted with bite-sized pieces of chicken that are battered, fried, and coated in a signature sweet-and-tangy orange sauce. Infused with hints of garlic, ginger, and chili flakes, the sauce delivers a perfect balance of flavors—zesty, slightly spicy, and delightfully sweet. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make every bite a satisfying experience.
Orange Chicken and Its Nutritional Profile
Although it’s rich in flavor, the high calorie, sugar, and fat content make it more of an indulgent treat rather than an everyday meal. Pairing it with lighter options like Steamed White Rice or Super Greens can make your meal more balanced.
While Orange Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s important to understand its nutritional content:
Nutritional Information
Nutrition
Calories
Fat
Sodium
Carbohydrates
Proteins
Serving Per Bowl (176g)
490 calories
23g
820mg
51g
25g
Panda Express Orange Chicken Calories
Wondering how many calories are in Panda Express Orange Chicken? Here’s the breakdown:
- Calories per Serving: 490 (for one entrée serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 51g
- Fat: 23g
For those looking for healthier options, consider pairing it with Super Greens or Steamed White Rice to balance the meal
The Healthiest Way to Enjoy Panda Express Orange Chicken Meal
While Orange Chicken is indulgent, you can enjoy it without guilt by balancing your plate. Consider these healthier pairings:
- Super Greens: A nutrient-packed mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage, adding only 90 calories.
- Steamed White Rice: A lighter carb option compared to Chow Mein or Fried Rice.
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Pairing Orange Chicken with a lean protein can make the meal more wholesome. Kung Pao Chicken may also be a good choice but mostly foodlovers go with light combo
Calories in a Bowl of Orange Chicken Chow Mein at Panda Express
A bowl of Orange Chicken with Chow Mein at Panda Express contains approximately 910 calories. This includes:
- Orange Chicken: 490 calories
- Chow Mein: 420 calories
For a lighter alternative, swap the Chow Mein with Steamed White Rice or Super Greens.
Panda Express Orange Chicken Sauce Bottle
Love the sauce? Panda Express offers a bottled version of their Orange Chicken Sauce. It’s perfect for creating your favorite dish at home or using as a dipping sauce. Look for it in grocery stores or on their website
Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Recreating Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple recipe that delivers the same bold flavors:
Ingredients:
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Batter: ½ cup cornstarch, 2 eggs, ½ cup flour
- Orange Sauce:
- ½ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces in a batter of cornstarch, eggs, and flour. Fry until golden and crispy.
- Make the Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a pan. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Related Favorites: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken and Chow Mein
If you’re looking to expand your Panda Express experience, consider these additional dishes:
- Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken: A grilled delight served with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze.
- Panda Express Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles mixed with cabbage, celery, and onions for a hearty side dish.
Both complement Orange Chicken beautifully, creating a complete Panda Express feast
Whether you’re savoring it at Panda Express or recreating it at home, Orange Chicken stands out as a true crowd-pleaser with its harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Its crispy texture and bold sauce make it a dish worth indulging in, whether as a treat or part of a balanced meal.
By pairing it with nutrient-packed sides or customizing your plate, you can enjoy this iconic dish in a way that suits your taste and lifestyle. Orange Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s a flavor experience that continues to delight fans around the world.