Unlock The Secrets To Cooking Perfect Mandarin Orange Chicken From Trader Joe’s With This Easy Recipe!

If you’re a fan of the tantalizing flavors of Mandarin orange chicken, then you’ll be delighted to know that Trader Joe‘s has a frozen version that’s both convenient and delicious. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of preparing this delectable dish, ensuring you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (1 pound) Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1/4 cup orange marmalade
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Thaw the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6 hours.

2. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the hot oil and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the green onions and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.

5. Add the Mandarin Oranges: Drain the mandarin oranges and add them to the skillet along with the orange marmalade, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and black pepper.

6. Bring to a Simmer: Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

7. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Perfection:

• Use a nonstick skillet: This will prevent the chicken from sticking and burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to your liking.
• Serve with rice or noodles: Mandarin orange chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or chow mein noodles.

Cooking Methods:

• Stovetop: Follow the instructions above for stovetop cooking.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Variations:

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Sauce: Adjust the amount of orange marmalade, soy sauce, and honey to your desired sweetness and saltiness.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to the dish.
• Sauce Variations: Try making a creamy orange sauce by adding 1/4 cup heavy cream to the original sauce.

Flavorful Pairings:

• Sides: Serve with steamed rice, chow mein noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
• Appetizers: Pair with spring rolls, wontons, or egg rolls.
• Drinks: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, beer, or iced tea.

The Grand Finale:

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of cooking Trader Joe‘s Mandarin Orange Chicken. Impress your family and friends with this delectable dish that combines the vibrant flavors of orange, soy, and honey. Savor every bite and indulge in the culinary symphony that is Mandarin orange chicken.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh mandarin oranges. Simply peel and segment the oranges and add them to the sauce.

Q: What can I substitute for orange marmalade?
A: You can substitute orange marmalade with apricot preserves or honey.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce while simmering. Cook until desired thickness is achieved.