P F Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe – Dish Journal

When enjoying PF Chang’s Orange Chicken, there are several delightful pairings that enhance the dish and create a well-rounded meal. Fried rice, with its soft, buttery flavors, balances the zesty and sweet notes of the orange chicken, and adding a sprinkle of scallions or peas can bring a pop of color and extra flavor. 

Steamed broccoli, with its bright green color and fresh, crunchy texture, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, flavorful chicken, while also offering a healthy dose of nutrients.

To start your meal off right, crispy spring rolls make an excellent appetizer, adding a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly. Together, these pairings elevate the experience and set the stage for the star of the meal: the orange chicken itself.

Imagine walking into a bustling Asian restaurant. The aroma fills the air and your stomach grumbles with anticipation. You’re here for one thing – the orange chicken. This dish brings together tender chicken, a sweet and tangy sauce, and a notable level of comfort. 

As a trained dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve tried countless variations of this dish. None come close to the famous PF Chang’s Orange Chicken. This recipe captures that magic and allows you to recreate it in your kitchen.

While I’m sharing this recipe, I will draw from my experience and the joy of flavor that comes from mastering something as seemingly simple as orange chicken. So let’s get cooking.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Fresh Ingredients Lead to Great Flavor: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest pack more punch than bottled counterparts. The vibrant flavors uplift the dish, making each bite a burst of citrus heaven.
2. Balanced Sauce Composition: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and chili oil not only enhances the sweetness but also adds depth. This creates a rich and sticky sauce that clings to the chicken beautifully.
3. Versatility of Cooking Methods: You can fry or bake the chicken. I love frying for that traditional crunchy texture, but baking is also a healthier option. This flexibility suits any kitchen style.
4. Ease of Preparation: Preparing this dish is straightforward. With just a few steps, you bring together flavors that impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How Does It Taste?

Biting into this orange chicken is like a flavor explosion in your mouth. The crispy texture of the chicken juxtaposes perfectly with the sweet and tangy sauce. You’ll taste the hints of garlic and ginger, alongside the zestiness of orange. 

Each mouthful feels like a comfort wrap, inviting you to come back for more. You won’t just eat it; you’ll savor it.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Variations?

Many orange chicken recipes tend to get lost in overly sweet or too spicy adaptations. This recipe walks a fine line, balancing sweetness with just enough heat. 

The fresh ginger and garlic ground the flavor profile, steering clear of overwhelming the delicate balance. The option to control your sauce’s thickness by adjusting cornstarch ensures a personalized touch.

The Ingredients

For a delicious PF Chang’s Orange Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken

1. 2 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil (like canola or vegetable oil) for frying
2. ¼ cup cornstarch or potato starch
3. 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
4. 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
5. Orange Chicken Sauce
6. 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice (from one orange)
7. Zest of 1 orange, sliced into thin strips
8. 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
9. 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
10. 1 tablespoon brown sugar
11. 2 tablespoons concentrated tomato puree
12. 2 tablespoons fragrant chili oil
13. ⅓ cup spicy chili garlic paste
14. 2 tablespoons sweet rice wine (mirin)
15. 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
16. 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
17. 1 teaspoon sesame oil
18. 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 teaspoon water

Garnish

19. ¼ cup diced fresh orange segments
20. 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
21. 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
22. A pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Then, sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken. Toss to coat each piece evenly. The cornstarch will provide a crispy texture.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large pan or wok, heat the neutral oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to fry but not smoking. This ensures the chicken will crisp up beautifully.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the chicken to the oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the ginger and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. 

Now, incorporate the orange juice, zest, brown sugar, tomato puree, chili oil, chili garlic paste, mirin, soy sauce, black pepper, and sesame oil. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Once the sauce has melded beautifully, stir in the cornstarch slurry. This will thicken the sauce slightly, giving it a sticky consistency.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the fried chicken to the pan. Toss to coat the chicken pieces in the sauce until they’re fully covered, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh orange segments, green onions, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that extra touch. Enjoy!

Notes

Here are some handy tips to elevate your cooking experience:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh oranges instead of bottled juice for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the chili garlic paste based on your heat tolerance.
• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. It helps maintain that crispy texture.
• Utilize Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day. Use leftovers in wraps or salads.
• Prep Ahead: Marinade the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance to save time.

How Do You Store This PF Chang’s Orange Chicken?

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to use a skillet to restore some of that crispy texture. Just a quick sear will work wonders.

Sides for PF Chang’s Orange Chicken

• Fried Rice: The little treasures of fried rice complement orange chicken beautifully.
• Steamed Vegetables: Mixed veggies add an extra crunch and nutritional boost.
• Noodle Salad: A light noodle salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the chicken’s richness.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

• Chicken: If chicken isn’t available, use tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Soy Sauce: Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a soy-free alternative.
• Mirin: If you lack mirin, a touch of sugar mixed in rice vinegar can mimic its sweetness.
• Chili Paste: The spicy sensation can be swapped out with Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

PF Chang’s Orange Chicken is a culinary marvel that brings a taste of the restaurant to your home. With a balance of freshness, sweetness, and just the right kick, it is a dish you’ll want to share with friends and family. 

Through simple yet effective cooking methods and easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a feast that feels special without the hassle. So the next time you’re looking to impress or simply satisfy your cravings, remember this recipe. 

Whether paired with steamed rice, vibrant veggies, or enjoyed solo, this orange chicken is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Get cooking!

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