Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken Air Fryer

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If you have ever wandered the frozen aisle at Trader Joe's, chances are you have seen the famous Mandarin Orange Chicken. It is one of Trader Joe’s most popular frozen meals for a reason. Crispy chicken, a sweet and tangy orange sauce, and dinner on the table fast.

This guide walks you through the best ways to cook Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken, plus tips to keep it crispy, serving ideas, and easy swaps if you want to lighten it up.

If you like Trader Joes you might also like this easy Lobster Bisque Pasta Trader Joe's

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Why You’ll Love This Mandarin Orange Chicken
Ingredients Needed for Mandarin Orange Chicken
How to Cook Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken
Serving Suggestions
Tips for the Best Results
Is Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken Healthy?
Recipe FAQS
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken Air Fryer

Why You’ll Love This Mandarin Orange Chicken

One of the biggest reasons I keep Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken in my freezer is because I am actively trying to cut back on DoorDash. Chinese food was one of my most frequent takeout cravings, especially on busy or low-energy nights. It also helps keeping some frozen potstickers or chicken egg rolls in the freezer too cause those are easy to make in the air fryer.

Having this on hand makes it much easier to skip delivery. I still get the sweet, crispy orange chicken flavor I want, but without the extra cost, delivery fees, or waiting around. It feels like a takeout-style meal while still being something I can make at home in under 20 minutes.

If you are trying to spend less on food delivery or eat at home more often, this is a great freezer option that actually satisfies those Chinese food cravings instead of feeling like a compromise.

Ingredients Needed for Mandarin Orange Chicken

1 bag Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken
Includes breaded chicken pieces and mandarin orange sauce

Optional add-ins (cook separately):

Broccoli florets or snap peas for extra veggies
Bell peppers or onions for more texture
Cooked rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for serving try this Instant Pot Jasmine Rice

How to Cook Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken

Air Fryer Method (Fast and Extra Crispy)

Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
Add frozen chicken in a single layer.
Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Warm the sauce separately and toss with chicken right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

90 second microwave rice packets - these are quick and easy but you can also make Instant Pot Jasmine Rice
Cook some other sides with chicken like this Air Fryer Turkey Potstickers or Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Paired with steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies
Wrapped into lettuce cups for a lighter meal
Served alongside Trader Joe’s vegetable fried rice

Tips for the Best Results

Always cook the chicken before adding sauce
Avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer
Toss gently with sauce so the coating stays intact
Add veggies on the side instead of mixing them into the sauced chicken

These small steps make a big difference in texture.

Is Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken Healthy?

This is a frozen convenience meal, so it is best enjoyed in moderation. You can make it more balanced by:

Serving smaller portions of sauce
Pairing it with lots of vegetables
Using cauliflower rice instead of white rice

Nutrition varies by portion, but one serving is typically around 320 calories, with protein from the chicken and most of the sugar coming from the sauce.

Recipe FAQS

Can I cook mandarin orange chicken from frozen?

Yes. Always cook straight from frozen. Do not thaw first.

Is mandarin orange chicken spicy?

No. The sauce is sweet and tangy, not spicy.

Can I use only part of the sauce?

Absolutely. Using less sauce helps keep the chicken crisp and lowers sugar.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is popular for a reason. It is fast, dependable, and easy to customize. Whether you use the oven or air fryer, keeping the sauce separate until the end is the key to restaurant-style results at home.

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