The Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken is a popular dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many food enthusiasts. This recipe is a perfect blend of crunch, flavor, and texture, making it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. In this article, we will delve into the world of Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken, exploring its ingredients, guidelines, nutritional information, and tips for making this dish a success.
Summary and Description
The Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken is a mouth-watering dish that consists of crispy chicken breast pieces coated in a mixture of flour, eggs, and almonds, then deep-fried to perfection. The dish is served with a side of steamed vegetables and a sweet and sour sauce, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick and easy dinner solution that is both delicious and impressive.
Ingredients Require For Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For 8 servings:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Steamed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers) for serving
– Sweet and sour sauce for serving
Understanding the Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the success of this dish. The chicken breast provides a lean protein source, while the flour, cornstarch, and eggs work together to create a crispy coating. The sliced almonds add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, while the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce provide a savory and umami taste. The steamed vegetables and sweet and sour sauce serve as a refreshing and tangy complement to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Guidelines
To make the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken, follow these steps:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place the coated chicken on a plate or tray.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add a few pieces of the coated chicken to the skillet (do not overcrowd).
- Fry the chicken until it is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and garlic.
- Add the fried chicken to the bowl and toss to coat with the soy sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the chicken and toss to combine.
- Serve the chicken hot with steamed vegetables and sweet and sour sauce.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for this recipe is approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. For 8 servings, the estimated nutritional information is:
– Calories: 420 per serving
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 24g
– Saturated fat: 3.5g
– Cholesterol: 60mg
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 10g
– Sodium: 400mg
Health Benefits
This recipe offers several health benefits, including a good source of protein from the chicken breast, fiber from the almonds, and vitamins and minerals from the steamed vegetables. Additionally, the dish is relatively low in calories and saturated fat, making it a guilt-free option for those looking for a healthier meal solution.
Tips For Recipe
To ensure the success of this recipe, follow these tips:
– Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
– Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked chicken.
– Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your favorite flavor combinations.
– Consider using a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature (350°F) for frying.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe can be modified to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Some possible variations include:
– Using breaded and baked chicken instead of fried for a healthier option
– Adding spices or herbs to the flour mixture for extra flavor
– Serving the chicken with different sauces, such as honey mustard or sweet chili sauce
Conclusion
The Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and savory flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering dish that is both healthy and satisfying. So why not give it a try and experience the magic of Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken for yourself?
What is the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken Recipe?
The Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken Recipe is a popular Chinese-American dish that originated from the Panda Express restaurant chain. The recipe typically consists of crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, topped with sliced almonds and served with steamed vegetables. This dish has gained a massive following worldwide due to its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation. The combination of crunchy chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful texture and taste experience that is hard to resist.
To make this recipe, you will need a few basic ingredients, including chicken breast or thighs, all-purpose flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. You will also need a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. The sauce is what sets this recipe apart from other Chinese-American dishes, as it provides a rich and slightly sweet flavor that complements the crispy chicken perfectly. With these ingredients and a few simple cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and authentic Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken dish in the comfort of your own home.
How do I make the crispy chicken pieces for the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken Recipe?
To make the crispy chicken pieces, you will need to start by preparing the chicken breast or thighs. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Then, create a batter mixture by combining all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and eggs. Dip each chicken piece into the batter, making sure it is fully coated, and then roll it in panko breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once the chicken pieces are fried, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. It is essential to not overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked chicken. Fry the chicken pieces in batches if necessary, and make sure to maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F for optimal crisiness. After frying, the chicken pieces are ready to be tossed in the sweet and savory sauce and topped with sliced almonds, creating a delicious and crispy Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken dish.
What is the secret ingredient in the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken sauce?
The secret ingredient in the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken sauce is a combination of soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar. These ingredients provide a rich and slightly sweet flavor that complements the crispy chicken perfectly. The soy sauce adds a savory and umami taste, while the sugar balances out the saltiness and creates a sweet and sticky texture. The vinegar, on the other hand, adds a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that enhances the overall taste experience. By combining these ingredients in the right proportions, you can create a delicious and authentic Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken sauce.
To make the sauce, you will need to combine soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and free of lumps, and then bring it to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens and turns into a sticky and syrupy consistency. You can adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences, and also add other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, or sesame oil to create a unique flavor profile. The sauce is what sets the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe apart from other Chinese-American dishes, and it is essential to get it right for an authentic taste experience.
Can I make the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken Recipe without frying the chicken?
While the traditional Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe involves frying the chicken pieces, you can also make a healthier version by baking or grilling the chicken. To bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dip the chicken pieces in the batter mixture and then roll them in panko breadcrumbs. Place the chicken pieces on the baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy. You can also grill the chicken pieces over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
Baking or grilling the chicken can result in a healthier and lower-calorie version of the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe. However, it may not provide the same level of crispiness as frying the chicken. To achieve a crispy exterior, you can try dusting the chicken pieces with cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs before baking or grilling. You can also brush the chicken with a small amount of oil and broil it for an extra minute or two to create a crispy exterior. While baking or grilling the chicken may not be as authentic as frying, it can still result in a delicious and flavorful Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken dish.
How do I store leftover Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken?
To store leftover Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken, you will need to separate the chicken pieces from the sauce and vegetables. Place the chicken pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken pieces for up to 2-3 months and reheat them when needed. The sauce and vegetables can be stored in separate containers and refrigerated for up to 1-2 days. When reheating the chicken, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
When reheating the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken, you can use a microwave, oven, or stovetop. To reheat in the microwave, place the chicken pieces in a microwave-safe container and heat them for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. To reheat in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the chicken pieces for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. To reheat on the stovetop, place the chicken pieces in a pan with a small amount of oil and heat them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. Reheating the chicken can help restore its crispiness and flavor, making it taste like freshly cooked Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken.
Can I customize the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken Recipe to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, you can customize the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe to suit your dietary needs. If you are gluten-intolerant, you can replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free soy sauce. If you are vegetarian or vegan, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use a vegan-friendly sauce. If you are looking for a lower-calorie version, you can bake or grill the chicken instead of frying it. You can also adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
To customize the recipe, start by identifying the ingredients that need to be replaced or adjusted. Then, research suitable substitutes and adjust the cooking technique accordingly. For example, if you are using tofu or tempeh, you may need to adjust the cooking time and method to achieve the right texture and flavor. If you are using gluten-free flour, you may need to adjust the ratio of flour to liquid to achieve the right consistency. By customizing the recipe, you can create a delicious and authentic Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken dish that suits your dietary needs and preferences.
Is the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken Recipe suitable for special occasions or events?
Yes, the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe is suitable for special occasions or events. The dish is impressive and flavorful, making it perfect for serving guests at parties, weddings, or holidays. The combination of crispy chicken, sweet and savory sauce, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful texture and taste experience that is sure to impress your guests. You can also customize the recipe to suit your event theme or dietary requirements, making it a versatile and convenient option for special occasions.
To make the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe suitable for special occasions, you can consider adding a few extra ingredients or garnishes. For example, you can add sliced scallions or sesame seeds on top of the chicken for extra flavor and texture. You can also serve the dish with steamed vegetables or fried rice to create a complete and satisfying meal. Additionally, you can consider making the dish in large quantities and serving it buffet-style, making it easy to feed a large number of guests. By serving the Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe at your special occasion or event, you can create a memorable and delicious experience for your guests.