Craving satisfied: step-by-step tutorial for conquering the skillet-fried trader joe’s orange chicken

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Trader Joe‘s Orange Chicken without leaving the comfort of your home! This blog post will guide you through every step of cooking this delectable dish on a skillet, ensuring a crispy, juicy, and mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients

• 1 package Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Thaw the Orange Chicken: Remove the chicken from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave using the defrost setting.

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

3. Cook the Chicken: Add the thawed chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Add the Sauce: Pour the orange sauce from the package over the chicken and stir to coat.

5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

6. Add Water: Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet and stir to thin out the sauce. This step will help prevent the sauce from burning.

7. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice or noodles.

Tips for Crispy Chicken

• Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the chicken from sticking.
• Heat the skillet to the right temperature before adding the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Flip the chicken frequently to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. Cook it until it’s golden brown and cooked through, but not dry.

Sauce Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sweet: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Tangy: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or rice vinegar to the sauce for a tangy twist.

Pairing Suggestions

• Rice: Serve the orange chicken with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice.
• Noodles: Pair the chicken with lo mein noodles or ramen noodles.
• Vegetables: Stir-fry your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, and add them to the skillet with the chicken.
• Sides: Serve the orange chicken with a side of spring rolls, egg rolls, or wontons.

Finishing Touches

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the orange chicken for a finishing touch.
• Serve with a Dip: Offer a side of sweet and sour sauce or hoisin sauce for dipping.

Alternatives to a Skillet

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken instead of thawed chicken?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen chicken on a skillet. However, it will take longer to cook. Cook the frozen chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have orange sauce?
A: You can make your own orange sauce by combining equal parts orange juice and soy sauce. Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for sweetness and a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice.

Q: How can I make the orange chicken spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce. You can also add a teaspoon of minced jalapeño or cayenne pepper.