Panda Express Copycat Orange Chicken
A delightful slow cooker version of the classic Panda Express orange chicken, packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked rice
- Steamed broccoli
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Combine in the slow cooker: Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker and pour the orange juice mixture over it.
- Set the cooker: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until fully cooked and tender.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve: Dish out the orange chicken over cooked rice and include steamed broccoli on the side.
Notes
Chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness. Fresh orange juice enhances flavor, but bottled can be used for convenience. Adjust the sweetness with honey as desired.