As the sun sets and the aroma of crispy, sweet orange chicken starts to fill the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. This isn’t just any dinner; it’s the moment when busy weeknights transform into something special. I discovered this Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken (Air Fryer Recipe) during a chaotic week when fast food no longer satisfied my cravings for homemade goodness. I had a frozen bag tucked away in the back of my freezer and decided to elevate it into a delightful dish.
With just a few ingredients for garnish, this meal offers a balance of ease and flavor that impresses both family and friends alike. Imagine crispy golden chicken bites, lightly glazed with zesty orange, finished off with the crunch of sesame seeds and the freshness of scallions. If you’re looking to break free from the monotony of takeout while avoiding complicated recipes, this dish is your new go-to. Let’s dive into the simplicity and delight that Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken can bring to your home!
Why is Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken so special?
Crispiness: Air frying creates a crunchy texture that rivals your favorite takeout.
Flavorful: The sweet and tangy orange sauce elevates the dish, making it a family favorite.
Easiness: With minimal prep and cooking time, it seamlessly fits into your busy weeknights.
Garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh scallions adds a touch of finesse and color.
Versatile: Serve it over rice or paired with veggies for a complete meal that satisfies everyone.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties, this recipe brings a delicious homemade touch that’s sure to impress!
Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken Ingredients
• Elevate your meal with these easy additions!
For the Chicken
- Trader Joe’s Frozen Orange Chicken – This is the star of our air fryer recipe, delivering that beloved flavor with a crispy finish.
For the Garnish
- Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the chicken.
- Orange Zest – A little zest brightens the dish and enhances the orange flavor of the chicken.
- Sliced Scallions – These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to your presentation.
This Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken (Air Fryer Recipe) elevates your dinner while keeping it delightful and straightforward!
How to Make Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken
-
Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves the perfect crispiness.
-
Cook the Chicken: Place the Trader Joe’s Frozen Orange Chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between pieces. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
-
Check for Crispiness: Once the cooking time is up, check to see if the chicken is golden brown and crispy. If needed, add an extra 2-3 minutes for that perfect crunch.
-
Toss in Sauce: While the chicken cooks, heat the included orange sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. Once the chicken is done, toss it in the sauce until well-coated.
-
Serve with Garnish: Plate the chicken and generously sprinkle sesame seeds, fresh orange zest, and sliced scallions for a pop of flavor and color.
Optional: Serve over steamed rice for a complete meal that’s sure to please!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken?
Bring your dinner table to life with these delightful pairings that elevate your meal experience!
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce, making every bite a comforting treat.
-
Stir-Fried Snow Peas: Their crisp texture and bright, fresh flavor balance the dish beautifully, adding a pop of color.
-
Crispy Egg Rolls: A crunchy side that complements the tender chicken while adding a deliciously savory element to the meal.
-
Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad heightens the experience with its cool crunch and zesty dressing, adding brightness to the plate.
-
Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles offer a satisfying texture, soaked in a savory sauce that pairs nicely with the orange chicken.
-
Chilled Green Tea: This soothing drink cleanses your palate and helps to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
-
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat adds a luxurious ending to your meal, contrasting perfectly with the citrusy chicken.
Make Ahead Options
Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken (Air Fryer Recipe) is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and toss it in the orange sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you’d like, prepare the sesame seeds, orange zest, and sliced scallions for garnish ahead of time, too—these can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the air fryer for about 5 minutes until crispy, and then garnish before plating. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with much less effort!
How to Store and Freeze Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in a tightly sealed freezer bag. It can last for up to 3 months; just remember to remove as much air as possible.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain that crispiness, ensuring it’s heated through completely.
Serving Suggestion: When reheating, consider adding extra sauce for added flavor and moisture before serving!
Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken Pairings
Looking to enhance your meal experience even further? Let’s explore some delicious options that can turn your Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken into a full feast!
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serve over fluffy jasmine rice, which beautifully soaks up the sweet orange glaze and balances the flavors.
-
Stir-Fried Veggies: Sauté a medley of crisp veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for an added crunch and nutritional boost.
-
Crispy Tempura Green Beans: For a delightful side, tempura green beans provide a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with orange chicken.
-
Cold Asian Noodle Salad: Toss cooked noodles with a light sesame dressing, veggies, and cilantro for a refreshing and flavorful side.
-
Egg Fried Rice: Transform leftover rice by frying it with eggs and peas to create a savory accompaniment that complements the chicken’s sweetness.
-
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil adds a bright, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
-
Spring Rolls: Pair with crunchy vegetable spring rolls as a starter; they add a delightful, crispy texture and a dip in soy sauce is a must!
-
Side of Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks or a fruit salad can bring a sweet tropical twist that elevates the overall meal experience.
Each of these suggestions will help you craft the perfect plate while enjoying the deliciousness of your Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken!
Expert Tips for Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken
-
Air Fryer Preheating: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking. This ensures your Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken gets that perfect golden crispiness.
-
Single Layer: Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket. This avoids steaming and allows for maximum crunchiness.
-
Sauce Temperature: Heat the orange sauce gently to avoid burning. Warm sauce enhances the flavors without overwhelming the crispy chicken.
-
Adjusting Crispiness: Check for the desired crispiness around the 10-minute mark. If it’s not to your liking, add an extra few minutes for that extra crunch.
-
Garnish Ideas: Get creative with your garnishes! Aside from sesame seeds and scallions, try adding crushed peanuts or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is used in Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken?
Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken features crispy breaded chicken pieces, coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This frozen meal is a convenient way to enjoy a takeout classic from home, with all the flavors you love!
How should I store leftover Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! After enjoying your feast, store any leftover Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for about 3 days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it, but make sure to use a sealed freezer bag to avoid freezer burn!
Can I freeze Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken?
Very much so! If you decide to freeze your Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken, place it in a tightly sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This will keep it safe for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a meal, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat it in the air fryer for that crispy texture!
How can I reheat leftover orange chicken?
To regain that delightful crunch, reheat your leftover Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in the air fryer! Preheat it to 350°F, then cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s heated through and crispy again. You might want to add a little extra sauce for flavor before serving!
Are there any dietary considerations with Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken is not suitable for those with gluten allergies, as it contains gluten in its breading and sauces. Additionally, always check the ingredient list for potential allergens like soy and sesame if you’re preparing it for someone with allergies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider making a homemade orange chicken using gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari sauce. This allows you to enjoy the flavors while accommodating dietary needs!
Crispy Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken: The Easy Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes.
- Place the Trader Joe's Frozen Orange Chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check if the chicken is golden brown and crispy; add extra 2-3 minutes if needed.
- Heat the included orange sauce in a small saucepan until warmed through.
- Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce until well-coated.
- Plate the chicken and sprinkle with sesame seeds, orange zest, and sliced scallions.