The Fascinating Origin Of Orange Chicken

Chinese American food is a culinary medley unto itself — filled with delicious deep-fried morsels named after famed generals, cream-cheese-and-crab-stuffed wontons, and beloved future predicting cookies (that are actually Japanese in origin, per Insider!). 

Often maligned as inauthentic, Chinese American food actually holds many of the traditional flavors of China, adapted not only for Western palettes, but for Chinese immigrants with access to different, yet equally wonderful ingredients than they had in their native land. And so, as with all things cultural and culinary, new and exciting twists, innovations, and improvisations give way, creating a uniquely rich, completely authentic, and delicious cuisine. 

When someone looks at the specials or favorites section at the top of any Chinese restaurant menu in the U.S., they are almost certain to find orange chicken. It is such a beloved staple of Chinese American cuisine that it can be hard to imagine a time without it. But its creation is remarkably recent, first appearing in 1987, according to NPR. So let's break down the history and recipe development that led us to the iconic orange chicken. 

When you think of Chinese American cuisine, one restaurant giant may stand out above them all — that's right, we're talking about the restaurant super-chain Panda Express. And that's with good reason, as Panda Express has 2,218 locations in the United States, reports ScrapeHero. They also offer many favorite menu items like honey and walnut shrimp, beef broccoli, and of course, orange chicken. But did you know Panda Express is responsible for the first-ever orange chicken recipe?

According to NBC News, Panda Express executive chef Andy Kao visited Hawaii in 1987 and changed Chinese American food forever. He was taken by the bright, tangy flavors of Hawaii's natural ingredients and produce, especially the citrus fruits. Then, in true innovator fashion, he decided to take classic American fried chicken, Hawaiian orange juice, and punchy Chinese spice to create the original orange chicken.

This dish perfectly exemplifies the wonderful things that happen when classic recipes are met with new cultures, ingredients, and techniques, and the unique and delicious innovations of Chinese American cooking.