What To Know
- While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
- Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or orange juice to prevent it from drying out.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken, now made effortlessly on your trusty skillet. This delectable dish, once reserved for takeout menus, is now within your culinary reach. Follow our step-by-step guide and savor the crispy, tangy goodness of restaurant-quality orange chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients Assembly: Gather Your Culinary Essentials
1. Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken (1 package)
2. Vegetable oil (for frying)
3. Orange juice (1/4 cup)
4. Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
5. Honey (1/4 cup)
6. Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
7. Ginger powder (1 teaspoon)
8. Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
Step-by-Step Skillet Symphony: Unlocking Golden Crispiness
1. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the freezer and allow it to thaw completely.
2. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the thawed chicken pieces to the skillet. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Create the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
5. Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring to a boil.
6. Return the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Orange Chicken Experience
Serve the skillet-fried Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken over jasmine rice or your favorite noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of Sriracha for an extra kick.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with Culinary Delights
1. Spicy Orange Chicken: Add an extra dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery twist.
2. Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Increase the honey to 1/2 cup for a sweeter, more garlicky flavor.
3. Teriyaki Orange Chicken: Substitute soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a slightly salty and umami-rich twist.
Tips and Tricks: Perfecting Your Skillet Mastery
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Cook the chicken over medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce it.
Nutritional Information: Savor the Flavor, Mind the Calories
A serving of skillet-fried Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Triumph in Your Own Kitchen
With this step-by-step guide, you can now effortlessly recreate the tantalizing flavors of Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken on your skillet. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish will impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh orange juice instead of bottled juice?
Yes, you can use fresh orange juice. The flavor will be more vibrant and intense.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce in the skillet until heated through.
3. Can I freeze the skillet-fried orange chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or orange juice to prevent it from drying out.
