Why Make This Recipe
Baked Orange Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that you can prepare quickly. It combines the sweet and tangy flavor of orange sauce with tender chicken. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to fried versions!
How to Make Baked Orange Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice, for serving
- Green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and brush with the Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
How to Serve Baked Orange Chicken
Serve Baked Orange Chicken over a bed of cooked rice for the best experience. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite delicious. You can also add steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
How to Store Baked Orange Chicken
To store leftover Baked Orange Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Baked Orange Chicken
- Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the orange sauce for an hour before baking.
- Use fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish to enhance presentation and taste.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture. You can also add some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli before baking for a one-pan meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free orange sauce. Check the label to confirm it fits your dietary needs.
Baked Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and brush with the Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.