SweetFire Chicken Breast from Panda Express features tender, crispy chicken pieces glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce made with pineapple, red bell peppers, and a hint of chili, delivering a vibrant combination of tangy, savory, and mildly fiery flavors.
Equipments
- Wok
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Saucepan (optional, for sauce preparation)
- Plate or tray
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
When preparing the SweetFire Chicken Breast, ensure the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces to promote uniform cooking and crispiness. Pineapple chunks should be fresh or well-drained if canned to avoid excess moisture that can affect the batter's texture. Use sweet chili sauce as the base for the sauce to achieve the signature sweet and spicy flavor. Measuring ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar precisely will help balance the tangy and savory notes. Your homemade SweetFire Chicken Breast from Panda Express copycat menu will capture the vibrant, bold flavors of the original dish.
Instructions
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice red bell pepper and green onions; set aside.
- Set up a breading station with bowls for flour (seasoned with salt & black pepper), beaten eggs, and cornstarch.
- Dredge chicken pieces in flour, dip in egg, then coat with cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy; drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan or wok, combine sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes; stir to mix and heat through.
- Add pineapple chunks and sliced red bell pepper to the sauce; cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
- Add fried chicken pieces to the wok; toss to coat evenly in sauce.
- Stir in sliced green onions.
- Serve hot on a plate or tray.
Substitution
SweetFire Chicken Breast from Panda Express copycat menu combines crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze featuring pineapple and red bell peppers. If you don't have red bell peppers, substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers for a similar sweetness and crunch. When frying, maintain vegetable oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) for crispy chicken without absorbing excess oil. You can prepare the sauce in a saucepan for better control over consistency and flavor blending. Using a wok helps evenly cook the chicken and vegetables, but a large skillet can work as an alternative.
Tips
Ensure your vegetable oil reaches the right temperature--around 350degF (175degC)--before frying to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing excess oil. When breading chicken, the sequence of flour, egg, and cornstarch helps create a crunchy exterior that locks in moisture. Stir the sauce ingredients continuously over medium heat to prevent burning and to meld flavors for that signature SweetFire taste. Use tongs to toss the fried chicken gently with the sauce, so each piece gets evenly coated without breaking apart.
Nutritions
SweetFire Chicken Breast from Panda Express provides a balanced mix of protein from tender chicken breast, critical for muscle repair and growth. The dish incorporates nutrient-rich pineapple chunks and red bell peppers, supplying vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune health. The crispy coating adds carbs primarily from flour and cornstarch, contributing to energy needs, while the sweet chili sauce and added sugars offer flavor but increase caloric content. You can enjoy this dish as part of a balanced meal, mindful of moderate intake given its fried components and sugar content.
Storage
Store leftover SweetFire Chicken Breast in an airtight container to maintain its crispy texture and vibrant sauce flavors. Refrigerate promptly at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop to warm evenly, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for chicken breast to add extra juiciness and flavor. Instead of deep-frying, try air frying the coated chicken pieces for a healthier, less oily option. Pineapple juice or mango chunks can replace pineapple chunks for a different tropical twist in the sweet and spicy sauce. Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred heat level to customize the spiciness.
Allergies
SweetFire Chicken Breast contains common allergens such as eggs, soy (from soy sauce), and wheat (from all-purpose flour), which may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Cornstarch and some chili sauces can also contain trace allergens or additives that could affect those with food sensitivities. You should always check ingredient labels carefully and inform the restaurant of any allergies to avoid potential adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
SweetFire Chicken Breast from Panda Express combines tender chicken breast pieces with a bold, sweet, and spicy sauce made from honey, red bell peppers, and chili peppers, creating a unique flavor profile that excites the palate. The dish balances savory and sweet elements, appealing to those who enjoy dynamic taste experiences. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the spice level and ingredients to match your preferences, while replicating Panda Express's popular menu favorite. Your homemade SweetFire Chicken Breast offers a convenient way to enjoy this flavorful dish without visiting the restaurant.