Hot Orange Chicken

$6.75

The Hot Orange Chicken at Panda Express is a spicy variation of the classic Orange Chicken, offering a more intense heat while still featuring the signature sweet and tangy citrus sauce. This dish is popular among those who enjoy bold, flavorful, and spicy entrées. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Hot Orange Chicken:

Calories

A typical serving of Hot Orange Chicken (about 5.5 oz) contains approximately 490 calories.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Hot Orange Chicken are:

Chicken breast (or sometimes thigh meat, battered and fried until crispy)
Orange sauce (a mixture of orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and seasoning)
Chili peppers or chili paste (providing the spicy kick)
Garlic (for flavor)
Ginger (adds warmth and depth to the sauce)
Cornstarch (used in the batter and sauce to thicken)
Vegetable oil (for deep-frying the chicken)
Green onions (optional, often used as a garnish)

Sesame oil (used in the sauce for flavor): The chicken is battered and fried to a crispy texture, then tossed in a sauce that combines the bright sweetness of orange with the heat from chili peppers, creating a balance of flavors.

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 490
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 870mg
Total Carbohydrates: 47g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 27g
Protein: 18g
Vitamin A: 2% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
Calcium: 4% of the DV
Iron: 8% of the DV

Allergens

Wheat (present in the batter used for frying the chicken)
Soy (from soy sauce used in the sauce)
Sesame (if sesame oil is used)

Gluten (in the batter and soy sauce): There may also be traces of egg, depending on the batter, as well as dairy (potentially from cross-contamination during preparation, though it’s not listed as a primary ingredient).

Recommendations

For those who love heat: The Hot Orange Chicken is a perfect choice for spice lovers. It brings the signature orange sauce with an added spicy kick, making it an exciting option for those who enjoy a bolder, hotter dish.
Pair with a neutral side: Due to the sweetness and spice of the Hot Orange Chicken, it pairs well with a more neutral side like steamed rice or Super Greens to balance out the intense flavors. Chow Mein or Fried Rice can also complement the dish with additional textures and flavors.
High in sodium and fat: With 870mg of sodium and 28g of fat per serving, this dish is on the higher end in terms of calorie and sodium content. If you’re concerned about sodium or fat intake, it might be best to enjoy this dish in moderation or pair it with lighter options like Grilled Teriyaki Chicken or Eggplant Tofu.
Great for protein: The dish provides 18g of protein per serving, so it’s a good option for those looking to add more protein to their meal, though the batter and sauce contribute to the fat content.
Not suitable for gluten-free or soy-free diets: Given the use of soy sauce and wheat-based batter, the Hot Orange Chicken is not a good option for those with gluten or soy allergies. You can inquire at Panda Express if there’s an option to substitute ingredients to accommodate allergies.
If you’re sensitive to spice: If you’re not a fan of spicier dishes, the Hot Orange Chicken might be too intense for you. If you enjoy the orange flavor but prefer a milder option, consider the Orange Chicken or Kung Pao Chicken.

Conclusion

The Hot Orange Chicken at Panda Express is a bold, spicy take on the classic Orange Chicken, featuring a blend of sweet and tangy citrus flavor with an added kick of heat. It’s a great choice for spice lovers but comes with a high calorie and sodium count due to the crispy fried chicken and rich sauce. For those who enjoy a flavorful and indulgent meal with some heat, this dish provides a satisfying experience. Just keep in mind its richness and consider pairing it with lighter sides or other menu items to balance your meal.

Please Note: Prices may vary by location, size, and local pricing policies. Generally, you can expect it for a standard size. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to check the Panda Express Mobile App or visit a local store.

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