Transform Your Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken Into A Culinary Delight With This Skillet Recipe!

Are you craving the lip-smacking flavors of Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken without the hassle of deep-frying? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the art of creating a skillet-cooked version that’s equally delicious, crispy, and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 package Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Orange Chicken

• Remove the Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
• If you’re short on time, you can also thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.

2. Heat the Skillet

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Ensure the skillet is well-seasoned to prevent sticking.

3. Cook the Orange Chicken

• Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the thawed Orange Chicken to the skillet.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside.

4. Make the Orange Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the water, cornstarch, soy sauce, and ground black pepper.
• Stir the sauce constantly until it thickens and becomes glossy.

5. Add the Sauce to the Chicken

• Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
• Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
• Serve the Orange Chicken immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Skillet Orange Chicken:

• Use a well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
• Cook the chicken over high heat to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet, or the chicken will steam instead of fry.
• Stir the sauce constantly to prevent burning.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more water.

Variations:

• Add a splash of Sriracha sauce to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds over the Orange Chicken for extra flavor.
• Serve the Orange Chicken over a bed of lettuce or quinoa for a healthier option.

Enjoying the Leftovers:

• Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• The sauce may thicken upon reheating, so add a little water to thin it out as needed.

Top Questions Asked

Q: How long does it take to cook Trader Joe‘s Orange Chicken on a skillet?
A: It takes approximately 10-12 minutes to cook the chicken and make the sauce.

Q: Can I use a different type of oil to cook the Orange Chicken?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil instead of olive oil.

Q: Can I freeze the Orange Chicken after cooking it?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

Q: What are some side dishes that go well with Orange Chicken?
A: Rice, stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or mashed potatoes are all great options.

Q: Can I make the Orange Chicken less spicy?
A: Yes, you can omit the Sriracha sauce or reduce the amount used.