Panda Express is a popular American-Chinese fast food chain known for its tasty and flavorful dishes. One of their most loved menu items is the Crispy Almond Chicken. If you’re a fan of this dish and want to recreate it at home, we’ve got you covered with an easy and delicious recipe!
To make the Best Easy Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced almonds and toast them until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the almonds from the skillet.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Add the cooked chicken and toasted almonds back into the skillet, stirring to coat them with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve the Crispy Almond Chicken over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
FAQs:
1. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with cashews or peanuts for a different flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free as well.
3. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can try baking the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken with cooking spray and bake at 400°F until crispy.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe and may even add more flavor.
5. Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you like heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce to the honey-soy sauce mixture.
6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or vegetables of your choice for a vegetarian version.
7. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
8. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar instead.
9. How can I make the almonds extra crispy?
To make the almonds extra crispy, you can toast them separately in a dry skillet before adding them to the dish.
10. Can I make this recipe without honey?
If you don’t have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.
11. What sides go well with Crispy Almond Chicken?
Some popular sides to pair with this dish are steamed vegetables, fried rice, or chow mein noodles.