Craving chinese cuisine? learn how to cook trader joe’s mandarin orange chicken in a flash
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Mandarin Orange Chicken with this comprehensive guide to cooking Trader Joe’s frozen masterpiece. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this step-by-step instruction will lead you to a delectable dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken
- Vegetable oil
- Green onions (for garnish)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or wok
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Plate lined with paper towels
Instructions:
#1. Thaw the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.
#2. Heat the Oil
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
#3. Cook the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the thawed chicken to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
#4. Remove the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
#5. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the Mandarin Orange Sauce that comes with the chicken. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat.
#6. Add the Chicken Back
Once the sauce is boiling, add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Stir to coat the chicken with the sauce.
#7. Simmer for 5 Minutes
Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.
#8. Garnish and Serve
Garnish the Mandarin Orange Chicken with chopped green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips for the Perfect Mandarin Orange Chicken:
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice.
- Serve the Mandarin Orange Chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Variations:
- Add some chopped red bell peppers or carrots to the sauce for extra color and flavor.
- Use a different type of sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or teriyaki sauce.
- Top the Mandarin Orange Chicken with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for a crunchy texture.
Cooking Time and Servings:
This recipe takes approximately 20-25 minutes to cook and yields about 4 servings.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of Mandarin Orange Chicken from Trader Joe‘s contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
Flavorful Finale: A Satisfying Conclusion
Cooking Mandarin Orange Chicken from Trader Joe‘s is a culinary adventure that will delight your palate. By following these step-by-step instructions and incorporating our tips and variations, you can create a dish that rivals the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or your friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. However, the cooking time may vary.
Q: Can I make the sauce from scratch?
A: Yes, you can make your own Mandarin Orange Sauce. However, Trader Joe‘s Mandarin Orange Sauce is a convenient and flavorful option.
Q: Can I freeze the Mandarin Orange Chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the Mandarin Orange Chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat it in a skillet or oven when ready to serve.