The Best Way To Cook Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Mandarin orange chicken but don’t want to go through the hassle of making it from scratch? Trader Joe’s has got you covered with their delectable frozen Mandarin orange chicken. Follow this comprehensive guide to master the art of cooking this dish, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 package (22 ounces) Trader Joe’s Mandarin orange chicken
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Equipment Required

• Large skillet or wok
• Tongs or a slotted spoon

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Thaw the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours at room temperature. Alternatively, you can thaw the chicken in the microwave using the defrost setting, following the package instructions carefully.

2. Heat the Oil

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the chicken is added.

3. Cook the Chicken

Add the thawed chicken to the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the chicken occasionally for even cooking.

4. Drain the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain it on paper towels to remove excess oil.

5. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the cooked chicken with chopped green onions and serve immediately. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice or vegetable stir-fry.

Tips for the Best Mandarin Orange Chicken

• For a crispier texture, double-fry the chicken. After the first fry, let the chicken cool slightly before frying it again for a few more minutes.
• If you don’t have vegetable oil, you can use canola oil or peanut oil as a substitute.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches to prevent it from steaming instead of frying.
• Serve the chicken with a side of the Mandarin orange sauce that comes with the package.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the oil while cooking the chicken.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

• Spicy Mandarin Orange Chicken: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the oil while cooking the chicken.
• Honey Garlic Mandarin Orange Chicken: Drizzle 1/4 cup of honey and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic over the cooked chicken.
• Sesame Mandarin Orange Chicken: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds over the cooked chicken.

The Perfect Sides for Mandarin Orange Chicken

• Steamed rice
• Vegetable stir-fry
• Chow mein noodles
• Egg rolls
• Spring rolls

Takeaways

Cooking Mandarin orange chicken from Trader Joe‘s is a simple and rewarding culinary experience. By following these instructions and incorporating some creative variations, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the sweet, tangy, and crispy goodness of this beloved dish!

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: How long does it take to cook Mandarin orange chicken from Trader Joe‘s?
A: Approximately 8-10 minutes, including thawing time.

Q: Can I use a different type of oil to cook the chicken?
A: Yes, you can use canola oil or peanut oil as a substitute for vegetable oil.

Q: What is the best way to reheat Mandarin orange chicken?
A: To reheat the chicken, place it on a baking sheet and heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Q: Can I make Mandarin orange chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken as directed above.

Q: Can I freeze Mandarin orange chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for several hours before reheating.