Low-FODMAP Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe
Try this Low-FODMAP Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe; Gluten-free, Dairy-free recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Low-FODMAP Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe; Gluten-free, Dairy-free recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 upwater
- 2 tbsp cornstarch or potato starch
- for low-fodmap breaded chicken pieces:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (abou chopped into bite size pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch or potato starch
- canola or other preferred oil for frying
- chives or scallion tips optional for garnish
- for low-fodmap orange sauce: (makes about 1.5 cups
- 1 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil (for tips on shopping for
- 1 tbsp ginger powder
- 1/2 upvinegar (white vinegar apple cider or rice vinegar); confirm gluten-free if necessary
- 1/2 upsoy sauce gluten-free if necessary (i use low-so
- i have also made this with 1/4 cup soy sauce for a
- 6 tbsp light corn syrup
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper (more or less depending on desi
- 2 tbsp orange zest (about 1 medium orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (from the same orange)
- 4 tbsp brown sugar (if you like a very sweet sauce increase to 6 tbsp)
- 1/2 spsesame oil
- Carbohydrate 16.5757716775535 g
- Cholesterol 846 mg
- Fat 20.2568233339869 g
- Fiber 1.04291666615966 g
- Protein 25.8106750010081 g
- Saturated Fat 6.31694333354618 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (299g)
- Sodium 287.577333339151 mg
- Sugar 15.5328550113938 g
- Trans Fat 3.43643533351958 g
- Calories 411 calories
Step-by-step
- For low-FODMAP Fried Chicken Pieces: In a medium bowl, mix eggs, salt, and pepper.
- In a second medium bowl, add 1 cup cornstarch (or potato starch).
- Heat canola or olive oil (for frying) in a wok or deep-fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Working in small batches, dip chicken pieces in the egg mixture, then the cornstarch mixture and fry for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate and repeat with remaining chicken. Do a few pieces at a time for maximum crispness.
- Discard oil and clean wok.
- For the low-FODMAP Orange Sauce: Place over high heat and add 1 tablespoon garlic infused olive oil and ginger and stir fry until fragrant, about 10 seconds.
- Add red pepper flakes then stir fry for a few seconds.
- Add soy sauce and stir again.
- Add vinegar and continue to stir to combine ingredients well.
- Place water and 2 tbsp cornstarch in a cup and stir to combine well (creates a ‘slurry’).
- Add the cornstarch/water slurry to the pan and stir.
- Heat until the sauce has thickened on medium low heat.
- Add corn syrup and brown sugar.
- Add orange zest and orange juice.
- Allow to thicken to desired consistency.
- Stir in sesame oil.
- Assemble the low-FODMAP Orange Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to coat.
- Garnish with chopped green chives if desired.
- Serve with low-FODMAP Steamed Rice and low-FODMAP Chinese Vegetable Stir Fry.
My Delicious Low-FODMAP Orange Chicken Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals is always a challenge. My family loves Panda Express orange chicken, but the high FODMAP content and potential for gluten and dairy issues meant it was a treat we rarely indulged in. Then, I decided to take matters into my own hands! I embarked on a mission to create a low-FODMAP, gluten-free, and dairy-free version that would satisfy our cravings without compromising our digestive health. This journey wasn't just about recreating a favorite dish; it was about reclaiming control over our family's diet and discovering the joy of healthy, home-cooked meals. The process, surprisingly, was far more rewarding than I anticipated.
The recipe development wasn't straightforward. There were many failed attempts, moments of frustration, and a lot of taste testing (which, admittedly, was the best part!). I experimented with different types of starch, adjusting the sauce consistency, and carefully selecting low-FODMAP ingredients. I learned so much about the delicate balance of flavors and textures, and the importance of precise measurements in achieving the perfect taste. Finally, after several iterations, I had a recipe that truly captured the essence of Panda Express orange chicken – the sweet and tangy sauce, the crispy chicken, the overall delightful experience. It tasted just like the original, if not better! The satisfaction of creating something so delicious and healthy was unparalleled. It was a moment of personal triumph; a testament to my persistence and culinary creativity. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of self-sufficiency and a delicious victory.
Beyond the immediate satisfaction of creating a healthier family favorite, this recipe has had a ripple effect. My family now looks forward to our home-cooked meals, and we've even started experimenting with other low-FODMAP dishes. Cooking has become less of a chore and more of a bonding experience. And let's be honest, the compliments I get on my "Copycat Panda Express" are pretty great! This recipe is a reminder that healthy eating doesn't have to be bland or boring. It can be delicious, satisfying, and perfectly tailored to your needs. So, grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure. The journey to creating your own delicious and healthy version of a favorite dish is a rewarding one.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. It's not just about replicating a restaurant dish; it's about creating memories and sharing the joy of healthy, home-cooked meals with the people you love.
Beyond the recipe: This project also ignited my interest in FODMAP dieting. I learned so much about this approach to managing digestive discomfort, and how easily we can adapt our favorite recipes to make them more suitable for our bodies' needs. This recipe is more than just a tasty treat; it's a step toward a healthier, happier me.
Tips and variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar or soy sauce to find your perfect flavor combination. You can also adjust the amount of brown sugar or corn syrup to achieve your desired level of sweetness. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!
