Get ready to ignite your taste buds! Panda Express, a beloved fast-casual chain, has long been known for its flavorful and addictive dishes. But what if you could take those same flavors and turn them up a notch? Enter: 18 Spicy Panda Express Recipes Deliciously Addictive. In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of spicy takes on classic Panda Express favorites. From the sweet and sour to the fiery and bold, these recipes will show you that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for heat. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to mix things up, these dishes are sure to become your new go-to’s.
Orange Chicken with a Kick
Add a kick to your classic orange chicken with this recipe that combines the sweetness of oranges with the heat of red pepper flakes. Perfect for those who like a little spice in their lives!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orange marmalade
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Kung Pao Shrimp
Spicy Kung Pao Shrimp Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this Spicy Kung Pao Shrimp recipe, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a savory and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, peanuts, and scallions; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes.
5. Pour the sauce over the shrimp; stir to coat.
6. Cook for an additional minute; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Firecracker Beef and Broccoli
This recipe combines the savory flavors of beef and broccoli with the spicy kick of firecracker sauce, making it a quick and delicious addition to any meal. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have this tasty dish on your table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup firecracker sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli florets, vegetable oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 5 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. Pour in firecracker sauce and stir to combine. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Honey Walnut Shrimp with Chili Glaze
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich honey walnut sauce and finished with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes.
3. Add walnuts and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and forms a glaze-like consistency.
4. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Brush the honey walnut glaze over the shrimp during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Szechuan Spicy Eggplant
A classic Chinese dish that combines the sweetness of eggplant with the bold flavors of Szechuan peppercorns and chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until tender.
3. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, garlic, and onion. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the toasted Szechuan peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Return the eggplant to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
9. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Pepper Angus Steak
Savor the rich flavor of a perfectly grilled Angus steak, elevated by the boldness of black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) Black Angus steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp coarse black pepper
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to let the steak come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
– Don’t press down on the steak with your spatula while it’s grilling, as this can squeeze out juices and make it tough.
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this sweet and spicy grilled chicken recipe! Marinated in a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and hot sauce, these juicy chicken breasts are perfect for your next barbecue or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, hot sauce, and olive oil.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Garlic Green Beans
Elevate your green beans game with this flavorful and spicy twist! This recipe combines the crunch of fresh green beans with the pungency of garlic and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired level of heat)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Add green beans and garlic; toss to coat.
5. Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beijing Beef with Extra Heat
This spicy twist on classic Beijing beef adds an extra kick of heat from sriracha and red pepper flakes, perfect for those who like a little more excitement in their stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sriracha
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a wok or large skillet over high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and bell peppers; stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, and red pepper flakes.
4. Pour sauce into the wok or skillet and stir to coat beef and vegetables.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Garlic Noodles
Add a spicy kick to your noodles with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of chili garlic and savory noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the chili garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup with a Twist
This recipe puts a spicy spin on the traditional Chinese soup, adding bold flavors and a kick of heat. Perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meals!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine broth, mushrooms, tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch mixture (whisked with 2 tablespoons water), ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Mongolian Beef
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this quick and spicy Mongolian beef recipe. A perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1-2 dried red chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 tsp sriracha
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, scallions, crushed red chili peppers or sriracha to the pan. Stir well.
5. Return beef strips to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the beef is coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Cashew Chicken with Peppers
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of cashews with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced peppers and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together cashew butter, garlic, ginger, and curry paste.
5. Add the coconut milk to the bowl and stir to combine.
6. Pour the mixture over the cooked chicken and peppers in the skillet.
7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
10. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creamy texture of silken tofu with the spicy kick of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. This recipe adds the richness of ground pork to create a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili oil. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the tofu and stir to combine with the pork mixture.
5. Mix in soy sauce and cornstarch. Cook until the mixture thickens.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Basil Egg Fried Rice
Add a kick to your fried rice with this flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of basil and the spiciness of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the other side and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetable mixture. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until well combined and heated through.
6. Transfer to a serving platter; garnish with chopped basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Extra Spicy
Elevate your Chinese-inspired meal game with this bold and spicy take on the classic General Tso’s Chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger paste, and chicken; cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together General Tso’s sauce, sriracha, and red pepper flakes.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok or skillet; stir to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño Honey Chicken
Sweet and spicy, this Jalapeño Honey Chicken recipe is a game-changer for any meal. With the perfect balance of flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup jalapeño peppers, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, jalapeños, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the honey-jalapeño mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Satisfy your cravings with this bold and flavorful Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, featuring juicy chicken, tangy vegetables, and a spicy kick. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and water.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat evenly; let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Serve with mixed bell peppers and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy Panda Express recipes! From classic dishes like Orange Chicken and Kung Pao Shrimp, to bold twists on favorites like Firecracker Beef and Broccoli, this collection has something for every heat level. Spicy shrimp, beef, and chicken are just the beginning, as you also discover addictive noodle dishes, soups, and rice bowls that will leave you craving more. Whether you like it sweet and spicy or extra hot, these recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s.
