On my busiest nights, I crave something that feels like a treat but is simple to whip up—stick with me and I’ll show you how to master this fantastic PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style.
Craving that vibrant, sweet, and savory kick of orange chicken but want a fresh, homemade touch? This PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style brings the restaurant magic right to your kitchen, without the fuss. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome, family-friendly meal that everyone will love. Our skillet version is quicker, easier, and just as flavorful, promising tender chicken coated in that irresistible tangy-sweet sauce. Get ready to master a new family favorite that tastes gourmet but comes together in a flash.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need for Skillet Orange Chicken Magic
Essential Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1.5 lbs / 680g, cut into 1-inch pieces): The star of our dish, providing tender, juicy bites.
- Fresh oranges (2-3): For zest and juice—absolutely key for that authentic, bright orange flavor.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup / 120ml): Adds essential umami depth without excessive saltiness.
- Rice vinegar (2 tbsp / 30ml): Brings a crucial tang to balance the sweetness.
- Fresh ginger (1 tbsp / 15g, grated): Provides a warm, aromatic punch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds foundational savory flavor.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup / 50g) and honey (1 tbsp / 21g): For that perfectly balanced sweet element in our sauce.
- Cornstarch (2 tbsp / 16g): Used for thickening the sauce and lightly coating the chicken for a perfect sear.
- Sesame oil (1 tsp / 5ml): A finishing touch for a nutty, aromatic hint.
- Cooking oil (e.g., vegetable, canola) (1 tbsp / 15ml): For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Seasoning for the chicken.
Smart Swaps & Optional Upgrades
Feel free to get creative! You can swap the chicken for firm tofu or succulent shrimp for a different protein. If fresh oranges aren’t on hand, a good quality orange juice concentrate (diluted) can work in a pinch. For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Healthier Notes
Making smart choices can turn this into an even healthier meal. Opt for organic chicken for a premium ingredient choice, use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, or reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey for a lighter take on this PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style. It’s a great base for your healthy eating goals!
Sourcing Tips
For the best flavor, always look for fresh, bright oranges that feel heavy for their size. When it comes to chicken, I recommend sourcing quality chicken from your local butcher or a trusted grocery store. Fresh ingredients truly make all the difference in this family-friendly dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Method: Your Easy PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Skillet
1. Prep the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss your 1-inch chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. This light coating helps achieve a beautiful golden crust when searing.
2. Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Set this vibrant sauce aside; it’s the heart of our PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style.
3. Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. Sear for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Build the Sauce
Carefully pour the whisked orange sauce into the same skillet (no need to clean it). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly with a whisk or rubber spatula. Watch as it transforms, thickening and becoming wonderfully glossy, typically within 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
5. Combine & Serve
Return the cooked, seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring each piece of chicken is generously coated with the luscious, thick orange sauce. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for that final aromatic flourish. Your homemade PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style is now ready to be enjoyed!
Shortcuts
To make this an even quicker meal, opt for pre-cut chicken from the grocery store. Pre-minced garlic and ginger can also shave off precious prep time, making this one of the easiest dinner ideas for busy evenings.
Avoid These Mistakes
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; this is key to getting a nice sear instead of steaming. Also, ensure your sauce is allowed to simmer and thicken properly so it beautifully clings to the chicken, creating that signature restaurant-style finish for your PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style.
Perfect Occasions and Pairings for Your Skillet Orange Chicken
This easy PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style is ideal for busy weekday dinners, a quick family gathering, or a satisfying school lunch. It’s a dish that feels special but fits any schedule, making it a truly versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.
Suggested Sides
- Fluffy white or brown rice for a classic base.
- Steamed broccoli, sautéed snap peas, or roasted asparagus for a fresh, vibrant green.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Toppings & Garnish
Elevate your plate with a few simple additions:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Thinly sliced green onions add a mild, fresh onion flavor and a pop of color.
- A little fresh orange zest brightens everything up, enhancing that signature citrus aroma.
Meal Prep & Storage
This recipe is fantastic for your healthy meal prep! Store cooked orange chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick, delicious meal any time.
Wellness and Everyday Benefits of This Hearty Orange Chicken Recipe
Balanced Living
Enjoy a meal rich in lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins from fresh oranges, and easily customizable with plenty of healthy vegetables. My family loves how satisfying and nutritious it is, a perfect example of balanced eating.
Lifestyle Fits
This is one of the best easy dinners for families, offering a nourishing protein boost that keeps you full and energized throughout the day. It’s also fantastic for your healthy meal prep ideas, making wholesome eating effortless throughout the week. It truly makes weeknight cooking a breeze.
Customizing Your PF Chang’s Orange Chicken for Every Taste
Making this delicious PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style your own is part of the fun! Here are some ways to adapt it to your preferences.
Technique Tweaks
- For crispier chicken, dredge the pieces in a bit more cornstarch before searing. Make sure your oil is hot enough to get a good crust.
- For an extra rich sauce, use chicken broth instead of water as part of the liquid base in the sauce.
Dietary Adjustments
- Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey for a lower-carb version; you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol if desired.
- Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick that truly awakens the palate.
Allergy Notes
If concerned about soy, consider using coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce. Always be aware of sesame allergies if using sesame oil or seeds, and have alternatives on hand.
Common Questions About Skillet Orange Chicken Answered
Is PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style a healthy option?
Compared to typical takeout, absolutely! When you make your own PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style at home, you have full control over the quality of ingredients, the amount of fresh produce, and the type of oil used. It’s a balanced meal with lean protein and can be customized to be even healthier by reducing sugar or adding more vegetables.
Can I freeze PF Chang’s Orange Chicken for later?
Absolutely! Once the cooked chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What’s the best substitute if I don’t have fresh oranges?
While fresh oranges provide the best flavor, you can use 1/2 cup of good quality bottled orange juice in a pinch. To boost that citrusy zest profile, add a tiny pinch of orange extract if you have it, but be careful not to overdo it.
How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
Achieving extra crispy chicken involves a few key steps: ensure your chicken pieces are patted very dry before cooking, lightly coat them in cornstarch, and sear them in hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
Can I use a different type of protein in this orange chicken recipe?
Yes! This recipe is quite versatile. You can easily adapt this skillet orange chicken recipe for firm tofu (pressed and cubed), succulent shrimp, or even turkey tenderloin for delicious variations. Each offers a wonderful alternative to chicken.
What are some good vegetable additions to this skillet orange chicken?
Many vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish! Broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or shredded carrots are all fantastic additions. You can stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking with the sauce to ensure they retain a slight crisp-tender bite.
How long does it take to make this PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Skillet?
This is truly a quick and easy dinner! Prep time is typically about 15 minutes, which includes chopping and mixing the sauce. The cooking time on the stovetop is approximately 20-25 minutes, meaning you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 45 minutes.
Conclusion
This homemade PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Recipe Skillet Style is your ticket to a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that rivals any restaurant dish. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you crave something truly satisfying and delicious for your family, and it’s a fantastic option for healthy eating and quick meals.
Don’t wait – add this fantastic skillet orange chicken to your weekly meal plan today, and savor every bite of homemade goodness! Be sure to save this recipe on Pinterest so you can find it easily whenever that orange chicken craving hits. My hope is it becomes a go-to family dinner for you!
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PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Skillet Style
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Craving that vibrant, sweet, and savory orange chicken? This Skillet Style recipe brings restaurant magic to your kitchen, quicker and easier, for a delicious family meal.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1.5 lbs / 680g, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Fresh oranges (2-3): For zest and juice
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup / 120ml)
- Rice vinegar (2 tbsp / 30ml)
- Fresh ginger (1 tbsp / 15g, grated)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup / 50g)
- Honey (1 tbsp / 21g)
- Cornstarch (2 tbsp / 16g)
- Sesame oil (1 tsp / 5ml)
- Cooking oil (e.g., vegetable, canola) (1 tbsp / 15ml)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss your 1-inch chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Sear for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Build the Sauce: Carefully pour the whisked orange sauce into the same skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes wonderfully glossy (typically within 2-3 minutes).
- Combine & Serve: Return the cooked, seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring each piece of chicken is generously coated with the luscious, thick orange sauce. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for that final aromatic flourish. Serve immediately.
Notes
Substitutions: Feel free to swap the chicken for firm tofu or succulent shrimp for a different protein. If fresh oranges aren’t on hand, a good quality orange juice concentrate (diluted) can work. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Healthier Options: Opt for organic chicken, use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, or reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey for a lighter take.
Sourcing Tips: For the best flavor, always look for fresh, bright oranges that feel heavy for their size. Source quality chicken from your local butcher or a trusted grocery store.
Shortcuts: For a quicker meal, opt for pre-cut chicken from the grocery store. Pre-minced garlic and ginger can also shave off precious prep time.
Tips for Success: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; this is key to getting a nice sear instead of steaming. Also, ensure your sauce is allowed to simmer and thicken properly so it beautifully clings to the chicken.
Nutritional data is estimated as it was not provided in the original article.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéed, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: PF Chang’s Orange Chicken Skillet Style, orange chicken, skillet, Chinese-American, weeknight meal