Name: P.F. Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 4 tbsp garlic; 4 Green Onions; 1 cup tomato sauce; ½ cup water; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp sriracha sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp canola oil; 1 orange peel; brown rice

Presenting a delightful, tangy dish - the orange peel chicken, inspired by the popular P.F. Chang's recipe. This flavorful dish is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and a hint of spiciness, all wrapped up in a luscious, glossy sauce that clings to the crisp chicken pieces. Enjoy the refreshing burst of citrus from the orange peel and the comforting warmth of the brown rice.

Photos of P.F. Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken Recipe

This recipe's key ingredients are fairly common, but the orange peel takes it to the next level. In case you don't have an orange on hand, make sure to pick one up when you do your grocery shopping. Also, Sriracha sauce is a type of hot sauce or chili sauce made from a paste of chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. You can find it in the Asian section of the supermarket.

Ingredients For P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken

Chicken breast: Lean protein that will be cooked to golden perfection.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a crispy coating.

Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing and making the sauce.

Garlic: Adds rich, aromatic flavor.

Green onions: Gives a refreshing bite and visual appeal to the dish.

Tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce.

Water: For thinning down the sauce.

Granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the tomato and orange.

Brown sugar: Adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.

Sriracha sauce: Offers a hint of heat.

Soy sauce: Gives a savory depth to the sauce.

Canola oil: Used for frying the chicken.

Orange peel: This is the star of the dish, providing a fresh and zesty flavor.

Brown rice: Serves as a base for the dish, soaking up the delicious sauce.

One reader, Base Dalton says:

I recently tried the P.F. Chang's style orange peel chicken recipe, and it was a hit! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the orange zest added a refreshing twist. The chicken was tender, and the sauce was delicious. It's definitely a new favorite in my household!

Base Dalton

Key Techniques for P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken Recipe

How to coat the chicken with cornstarch: Place the chicken in a bowl, then coat them with cornstarch evenly to create a light, crispy texture when cooked.

How to brown the chicken: Heat canola oil in a wok over medium-high heat, then add the coated chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned on both sides, ensuring it is cooked through.

How to make the orange peel sauce: In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and sauté minced garlic and green onions for about a minute. Then, add tomato sauce, water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, sriracha sauce, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

How to incorporate the orange zest and strips: Once the sauce is ready, add the browned chicken back into the pan with the sauce. Top it with orange zest and strips, then mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it cook for an additional 20 to 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld.

How to serve: Serve the orange peel chicken with brown rice to complement the flavors and enjoy this delicious dish.

How To Make P.F. Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken

Skip the line at P.F. Chang’s and recreate your own classic orange chicken at home! It’s cooked and tastes just like how P.F. Chang’s makes theirs.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbschicken breastcut into 1-inch pieces
¼cupcornstarch
1tbspvegetable oil
4tbspgarlicminced
4green onionssliced
1cuptomato sauce
½cupwater
¼cupgranulated sugar
2tbspbrown sugar
1tbspsriracha sauce
1tbspsoy sauce
2tbspcanola oil
1orange peelhalf zested and half julienned
brown rice

Instructions

Place the chicken in a bowl, then coat them with cornstarch.
Add the canola oil to the wok.
Heat the oil on medium high, then add the chicken.
Cook until browned on both sides.
Remove the chicken from pan.
Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil, minced garlic and green onions.
Let cook for 1 minute.
Add tomato sauce, water, sugar, Sriracha and soy sauce.
Bring to a boil and then simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat, then set aside.
Add the chicken back into the pan with the sauce.
Top with the orange zest and orange strips.
Mix until all coated, letting it cook for another 20 to 30 seconds for the chicken to heat back up.
Serve with brown rice, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 613.75kcal
Fat: 31.76g
Saturated Fat: 6.82g
Trans Fat: 0.29g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.13g
Carbohydrates: 31.73g
Fiber: 1.64g
Sugar: 19.50g
Protein: 49.20g
Cholesterol: 145.15mg
Sodium: 660.09mg
Calcium: 66.77mg
Potassium: 781.33mg
Iron: 2.77mg
Vitamin A: 75.51µg
Vitamin C: 10.44mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken

When coating the chicken with cornstarch, it's best to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This not only helps the chicken to brown nicely, but also creates a slight crust that will hold up well when mixed with the sauce. To achieve this, you can place the chicken and cornstarch in a zip-top bag, seal it, and then shake until all pieces are well coated. This method also helps to keep your hands clean.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Orange Peel Chicken

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking. This will allow the flavors to develop and the chicken to tenderize.

Organize ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and measure them out before starting to cook. This will streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling for items.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the orange zest and strips, chop the garlic and green onions, and measure out the sauce ingredients to save time during the actual cooking process.

Use pre-cut chicken: Consider using pre-cut chicken strips or cubes to skip the step of cutting and preparing the chicken, saving valuable time in the kitchen.

Pre-cooked rice: Use pre-cooked or instant brown rice to cut down on cooking time and have a quick side dish ready to serve with the orange peel chicken.

Substitute Ingredients For P.F. Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken Recipe

chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken, providing a similar texture and absorbing the flavors of the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative to cornstarch for thickening the sauce.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a hint of tropical flavor to the dish and withstand high heat for stir-frying.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor profile.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a milder substitute for green onions, adding a delicate onion flavor to the dish.
tomato sauce - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, providing a slightly sweeter and tangier flavor.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall savory profile.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish, complementing the orange peel and other ingredients.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the dish, enhancing the flavor profile.
sriracha sauce - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce can be used as a substitute for sriracha, providing a similar spicy kick with added garlic flavor.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, providing a similar umami-rich flavor.
canola oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil can add a nutty aroma and flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall Asian-inspired profile.
orange peel - Substitute with tangerine peel: Tangerine peel can be used as a substitute for orange peel, providing a similar citrusy aroma and flavor.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a nutritious alternative to brown rice, providing a complete protein source and nutty flavor.

Plating Ideas for P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Incorporate contrasting colors and shapes: Utilize the bright orange hues of the chicken and the green garnishes to create a visually appealing contrast on the plate. Consider using circular molds to shape the rice into elegant rounds for a sophisticated presentation.
Garnish with precision: Add a final touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with finely sliced green onions and delicate orange zest. These small details will elevate the overall presentation and demonstrate attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. By strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, you can draw attention to the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Focus on balance and harmony: Arrange the components of the dish thoughtfully to create a sense of balance and harmony on the plate. Consider the placement of each element to ensure a visually appealing presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware to complement the upscale nature of the dish. Opt for sleek, modern plates and bowls that will enhance the overall presentation.
Emphasize the aroma: Consider incorporating aromatic elements, such as a sprig of fresh herbs or a decorative orange slice, to add a sensory dimension to the presentation and entice the judges with enticing aromas.
Highlight the orange peel: Showcase the star ingredient by featuring the vibrant orange peel as a focal point of the dish. Arrange the peel in an artistic manner to draw attention to its unique flavor and visual appeal.
Create a captivating focal point: Design the plating to feature a captivating focal point that draws the eye and creates a sense of intrigue. This could be achieved through the strategic arrangement of the chicken and rice, or by incorporating a visually striking element as a centerpiece.
Embrace modern elegance: Aim for a presentation that exudes modern elegance, with clean lines, sophisticated arrangements, and a focus on precision. This approach will resonate with the refined palates of the Michelin-starred judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Orange Peel Chicken

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, and more.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small quantities of food.
Zester: A kitchen tool used for removing the zest from citrus fruits.
Grater: A tool used for grating or shredding ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot, used for picking up and manipulating food.
Rice cooker: A kitchen appliance used for cooking rice automatically.
Steamer: A cooking tool used for steaming vegetables, seafood, and other foods.
Strainer: A kitchen tool used for separating liquids from solids.
Garlic press: A tool used for crushing garlic cloves.
Can opener: A tool used for opening cans.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade, used for lifting and turning food during cooking.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning food.
Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving food.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Orange Peel Chicken

Let the orange peel chicken cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the orange peel chicken for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
Transfer the thawed chicken to a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Alternatively, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out and restore its original consistency.
Serve the reheated orange peel chicken over freshly cooked brown rice for the best taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Orange Peel Chicken

The best way to reheat leftover P.F. Chang's style orange peel chicken is in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil or canola oil to the pan, then add the chicken and sauce. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps to preserve the crispy texture of the chicken and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
Another option is to reheat the orange peel chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, then cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the sauce to separate.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Reheat the sauce separately in a saucepan or microwave, then pour over the chicken before serving.
For a quick and easy lunch, you can also enjoy leftover orange peel chicken cold. Shred the chicken and mix with the sauce, then serve over a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap with sliced cucumbers and shredded carrots. The sweet and spicy flavors of the sauce make for a delicious and refreshing salad or sandwich.

Interesting Trivia About Orange Peel Chicken

P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken Recipe is a popular dish that combines the flavors of sweet and spicy. It is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Is Making P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This orange peel chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken breast, garlic, green onions, and tomato sauce, are affordable and readily available. The addition of brown rice as a side further enhances the budget-friendly aspect. With an approximate cost of $15, this flavorful dish can be prepared for a family of four. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, delicious taste, and ease of preparation.

Is Orange Peel Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The P.F. Chang's style orange peel chicken recipe is a delicious dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The chicken is coated in cornstarch and fried, which adds extra calories and fat to the dish.
The sauce contains a significant amount of sugar, both granulated and brown, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.
The recipe uses canola oil for frying, which is a refined oil that may not be the best choice for overall health.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as garlic, green onions, and orange peel, which offer various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Instead of frying the chicken, try baking or grilling it to reduce the amount of oil used.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use a healthier cooking oil, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, which are more stable at high temperatures and offer better nutritional profiles.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
Serve the chicken with a larger portion of brown rice or quinoa to make it a more balanced meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Orange Peel Chicken Recipe

The recipe for P.F. Chang's style orange peel chicken is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The use of cornstarch gives the chicken a crispy texture, while the orange zest adds a refreshing citrus aroma. The sauce is well-balanced with a perfect blend of sweetness and heat from the sriracha. The addition of brown rice complements the dish, offering a wholesome and satisfying meal. Overall, this recipe is a winner, providing a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own home.

Enhance Your P.F. Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Asparagus: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and sprinkle with toasted almonds for a burst of flavor.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss with honey and cinnamon for a sweet and savory side dish that complements the orange peel chicken perfectly.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Add a tropical twist to your meal with juicy grilled pineapple slices, lightly caramelized for a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.

Similar Recipes to P.F. Chang's Style Orange Peel Chicken

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It's a quick and easy dish that's sure to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and savory.

Mango Chicken Salad: This refreshing mango chicken salad is a delightful mix of juicy mango, tender chicken, and crisp greens. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, it's the perfect light and flavorful dish for a summer day.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this mushroom risotto. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of the risotto make for a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for an Orange Peel Chicken Meal

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Creamy and indulgent, this dip is the perfect way to start off any meal. The combination of spinach, artichoke, and cheese creates a rich and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are a crowd-pleaser. Filled with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, each bite is bursting with flavor. The tender mushrooms and creamy filling make for a delicious appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet cinnamon-spiced filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this P.F. Chang’s Orange Peel Chicken Recipe:

This recipe for Orange Peel Chicken is a delicious and authentic Asian-inspired dish that captures the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine. The combination of tender chicken breast and zesty orange peel creates a tantalizing taste experience. The use of fresh ingredients such as garlic, green onions, and tomato sauce ensures a rich and aromatic sauce that will elevate your dining experience. With a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe guarantees a delightful meal that will impress your taste buds. Trust in this recipe to bring the flavors of P.F. Chang's right to your own kitchen.

Share your thoughts on P.F. Chang's Orange Peel Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you've tried making it at home!

FAQ:

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They are easy to work with and cook quickly.

Can I use a substitute for the orange peel?

If you don't have an orange on hand, you can use dried orange peel or orange zest as a substitute. It will still provide the citrusy flavor to the dish.

Is there a substitute for the sriracha sauce?

If you don't have sriracha sauce, you can use red pepper flakes or chili paste as a substitute to add some heat to the dish.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice if you prefer. Brown rice is a healthier option, but feel free to use white rice if that's what you have available.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of sriracha sauce or omit it altogether. If you like it spicier, you can add more sriracha or some additional red pepper flakes.