PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe

PF Chang’s Orange Chicken is such an amazing blend of crispy chicken and a tangy, citrus-packed sauce! Sweet, savory, and spicy all in one? Gimme now!

One thing that makes this shine is the freshly squeezed orange juice—it’s worth the extra step for that bold, fresh flavor.

To get the chicken super crispy, I use cornstarch instead of flour for the coating, which fries up beautifully.

Make sure to toss the chicken in the sauce while it’s still hot, so it soaks up all the goodness it has to offer.

I also like to sprinkle on some fresh orange zest just before serving for an extra punch of citrus.

What draws me to this recipe is how the chicken stays crispy even after being coated in the rich, sticky sauce.

How to Make PF Chang’s Orange Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken Breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 cup Orange Juice
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch
• 1 tbsp Canola Oil
• 1 tsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Ginger (minced)
• 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
• 1/4 cup Green Onions (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Marinate the chicken pieces in orange juice for 30 minutes in the fridge.

Ensure the pieces are fully covered.

Step 2:

Coat marinated chicken in cornstarch, shaking off any excess.

This creates a crispier texture when cooked.

Step 3:

Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken and cook until both sides are golden brown.

Step 4:

Remove excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon.

Sauté garlic and ginger for about a minute until they are fragrant.

Step 5:

Add soy sauce, sugar, red pepper flakes, and rice vinegar to the skillet.

Stir well and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinating Time:

Letting the chicken marinate in orange juice adds flavor and helps to tenderize the meat for a juicier bite.

Crispy Chicken:

For extra crispy chicken, ensure that each piece is fully coated in cornstarch and oil is sufficiently heated before cooking.

Adjust Spice:

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences!

What to Serve with PF Chang’s Orange Chicken

White Rice

White rice is a fantastic choice to pair with PF Chang’s Orange Chicken.

It’s simple, fluffy, and provides an excellent base for soaking up the tasty sauce.

You’ll find that the mild flavor of the rice complements the sweet and spicy notes of the chicken beautifully.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is another great option if you’re aiming for something hearty with a nutty taste.

It’s a bit chewier than white rice, and still works wonders in balancing the flavors of the orange sauce.

Plus, it adds a whole grain element to your meal, which can be satisfying and healthy!

Fried Rice

Another traditional accompaniment is fried rice, which pairs excellently with orange chicken.

Its buttery flavor works well with the zest and spice of the chicken dish.

Consider adding some scallions or peas for a pop of color and extra flavor that looks incredible.

Edamame

Edamame is a fantastic side if you’re looking to add a bit of nutrition to your meal.

These bright green soybeans not only add color but offer a fresh taste and texture.

They’re also super easy to prepare when you’re in a pinch for time.

Green Beans

Crispy green beans bring a nice crunch that can contrast the soft chicken pieces.

Toss them with a hint of garlic or sesame for additional flavor.

Their vibrant green makes the plate look enticing and well-balanced.

Cauliflower Rice

Cauliflower rice is a unique, low-carb option that works surprisingly well.

Its light texture makes for a nice contrast with the savory, sticky sauce of orange chicken.

Season it lightly so that it subtly complements without overpowering the flavors of the main dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken Choices

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a juicier result.

Chicken thighs add a richer flavor to the dish while keeping it tender.

Citrus Options

Freshly squeezed orange juice is a popular choice for this recipe, but bottled juice also works well in a pinch.

If you’re after an intense citrus burst, try adding thinly sliced orange peel instead of zest.

Adding sautéed orange strips enhances the tangy flavor profile and creates a fresh highlight in your dish.

Is it Spicy Enough?

For a spicier kick, consider including a pinch of red pepper flakes into your sauce mix.

They’re easy to adjust depending on your preference and pair well with orange zest.

Gluten-Free Option

Use a gluten-free soy sauce and check that your cornstarch is gluten-free to adapt this recipe.

It’s an easy swap that allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious dish too!

How to Store Leftover PF Chang’s Orange Chicken

Storing your leftover PF Chang’s Orange Chicken is a breeze when you know a few simple tips.

An airtight container is an absolute must to keep your chicken fresh.

Refrigeration Tips

Make sure the leftovers cool down to room temperature before sealing them to avoid condensation.

Store the container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3 days to maintain the dish’s flavor.

Freezing Options

Go ahead and freeze your orange chicken if you want to save it for a rainy day.

Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for any expansion during freezing.

Easy Labeling

Label the container with the date so you know exactly when you stored it.

This helps you keep track and use it within a 2-3 month period for the best taste!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

You don’t want to fry the chicken until it’s rock hard because it can ruin the texture.

Watch carefully and fry until it’s just golden brown for the right amount of crunch.

Burning the Garlic

Garlic can go from fragrant to burnt in a matter of seconds, so keep a close eye on it.

Make sure you’re ready to stir continuously to prevent this.

Skipping the Fresh Orange Zest

Avoid using bottled orange juice or dried zest if you can, as it might dull the flavor.

Fresh zest adds a vibrant and authentic citrus kick that’s essential for this dish.