Mandarin Chicken – This easy takeout dish consist of tender juicy chicken chunks with a crispy breading in a sweet and spicy orange sauce.
Mandarin Chicken – A Sweet and Savory Weeknight Delight
It is a classic Chinese-American dish that’s beloved for its sweet and tangy flavor profile. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s quick, easy, and undeniably delicious. Let’s dive into the world of mandarin chicken and discover how to create this flavorful dish in your own kitchen.
Recipe Variations
Spicy chicken: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Honey garlic mandarin: Substitute honey for brown sugar and add a clove of minced garlic to the sauce.
Vegetable mandarin: Add broccoli, carrots, or snow peas to the dish for extra nutrients.
Chicken lettuce wraps: Serve the chicken mixture in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
Mandarin Chicken – Tips & Tricks
Chicken cut: For a quicker cook time, cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cornstarch slurry: The cornstarch slurry helps to thicken the sauce.
Sweetness level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your taste preference.
Orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is best for the most flavorful sauce.
Serving temperature: Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and sticky.
How To Serve This Mandarin Chicken ?
Classic pairing: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Side dish: Pair with stir-fried vegetables or a side salad.
Appetizer: Serve as small skewers for a party-friendly option.
How To Store This Mandarin Chicken ?
Best served fresh: Mandarin chicken is best enjoyed immediately after cooking.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking.
What can I substitute for mandarin oranges?
You can use fresh orange segments or pineapple chunks.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the chicken and combine the two just before serving.
Mandarin Chicken (BEST)
Mandarin Chicken - This easy takeout dish consist of tender juicy chicken chunks with a crispy breading in a sweet and spicy orange sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 cup sunflower oil
- 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Mandarin Sauce:
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sriracha
Jasmine Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Add rice, butter, salt, and water to a rice cooker or pot. Cook until all the liquid has absorbed. Set aside.
- Prep the Chicken: Beat the eggs in one bowl. In another bowl, mix cornstarch and flour. Dredge the diced chicken in the egg, then toss in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper-towel lined plate and season with a pinch of salt.
- Make the Mandarin Sauce: Whisk the orange juice and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth. Stir in hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and sriracha. Microwave the sauce for 1 minute until thickened.
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken in the mandarin sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Serve: Divide the rice among plates, top with the saucy chicken, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
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