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.

Easy PF Chang's Orange Chicken Skillet

Name: PF Chang's Orange Chicken Skillet Style
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
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)

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