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Baked Orange Chicken

A healthier version of the classic takeout dish, featuring tender chicken glazed in a sweet and zesty orange sauce.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For coating the chicken.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional, for thickening the sauce.
  • to garnish Green onions Slice thinly for garnish.
  • to garnish Sesame seeds Optional, for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
  3. Pour the orange chicken sauce over the chicken and mix well. For deeper flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Spread the chicken evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and begins to caramelize.
  3. For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir into the pan juices about 5 minutes before the chicken is done.
  4. Once baked, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Notes

Pro Tips: Let the chicken marinate longer for more flavor, use fresh ingredients for best taste, ensure even cooking by cutting chicken into similar sizes, and use a rimmed baking sheet for easier cleanup.