This mandarin orange chicken recipe is a delightful twist on classic Chinese food that your family will love! Start by cutting boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large skillet and add ginger and garlic for flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, add chicken to a large bowl with cornstarch and lemon juice to coat.
Next, make the sauce by combining hoisin sauce and orange flavor ingredients until well combined. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Reduce the heat to achieve your desired consistency and allow the flavors to meld. Serve over white rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
If you have leftover mandarin chicken, store it in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop. This easy chicken recipe will satisfy your take-out cravings without leaving home. Remember to check your inbox for more delicious recipes!
Crispy, golden chicken coated in a glossy, sweet-tangy orange sauce makes this dish irresistible. It captures the essence of your favorite Chinese takeout, all made effortlessly in your kitchen. You can quickly recreate this iconic recipe with fresh ingredients and simple instructions. This flavorful dish will surely impress, whether for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion.
This guide provides step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and creative variations to enhance your cooking experience. Let’s explore the techniques, flavors, and secrets that make this recipe a standout favorite.
Table of Contents
What is Mandarin Chicken?
Mandarin Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish known for blending crispy textures and anangy flavors. The recipe features fried chicken pieces coated in a savory sauce made with orange juice, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness. While similar to orange chicken, Mandarin chicken stands out for its pronounced citrus notes and balanced flavor profile.
This dish has its roots in recipes adapted by Chinese immigrants to suit Western palates. Over time, it became a cornerstone of Chinese-American cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and vibrant taste. Popularized by restaurants like Panda Express, preparing this dish at home offers the advantage of using fresh ingredients, resulting in a healthier and customizable version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this dish requires a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | 1 lb | Thighs are juicier, but breasts work too. |
| Cornstarch | 2 tbsp | For a crispy coating and thickening. |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp | It was added for garnish. |
| Fresh orange juice | ½ cup | Use freshly squeezed for bold flavor. |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp | Adjust for sweetness preference. |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | Adds a nutty aroma. |
| Minced garlic | 1 tsp | Enhances depth of flavor. |
| Orange zest | 1 tsp | Amplifies the citrus notes. |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp | ChIt added for garnish. |
| Green onions | 2 tbsp | Toasted for garnish. |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tsp | Toasted, for garnish. |
Pro Tip: Substitute chicken thighs with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mandarin Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and lets the chicken soak up the sauce beautifully. Toss the chicken in cornstarch until every piece is evenly coated. This step creates the signature crispy texture when fried.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in small batches, frying them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Key Tip: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; it helps maintain the oil’s temperature for crispier chicken.
Making the Mandarin Orange Sauce
The sauce is what sets Mandarin Chicken apart. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, sesame oil, and orange zest. To thicken the sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.
Heat the sauce mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add one slurry and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. When ready, it should coat the back of a spoon. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Combining the Chicken and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, carefully pour it over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Toss everything together on medium heat until the chicken is evenly coated and the sauce clings to every piece. The glaze should have a shiny, appetizing finish.
Tips for the Perfect Mandarin Chicken
Achieving restaurant-quality Mandarin chicken at home is easier with these tips:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest are non-negotiable for the boldest flavors.
- Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat while frying to avoid soggy chicken or burnt oil.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Add or reduce brown sugar to suit your preference.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the dish as soon as it’s ready.
Variations to Try
- Healthier Option: Air-fry or bake the chicken instead of deep-frying. Coat it lightly with cooking spray to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower florets for a plant-based version.
- Add Vegetables: Stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or red bell peppers pair wonderfully with Mandarin Chicken.
Did You Know? Adding vegetables not only boosts the dish’s nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors, making it even more visually appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mandarin Chicken the same as Orange Chicken?
While they are similar, Mandarin chicken emphasizes citrusy flavors with a tangy twist, whereas orange chicken leans more towards sweet and slightly caramelized notes.
What is Mandarin Sauce made of?
Mandarin sauce typically includes orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. It is thickened with a cornstarch slurry for a glossy finish.
What does Mandarin Sauce taste like?
It combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with hints of citrus and umami to create a well-rounded taste.
How to Make Mandarin Chicken Step-by-Step
The magic of Mandarin Chicken lies in the combination of crispy chicken and tangy mandarin sauce. In this continuation, we’ll complete the cooking process and explore how to elevate the dish with serving suggestions and variations.
Coating the Chicken with Sauce
With the sauce prepared and the chicken fried to a golden crisp, it’s time to marry these components into a perfect dish. Gently pour the prepared mandarin sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to toss the chicken evenly, ensuring each piece is coated with the glossy, flavorful sauce.
Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 3–5 minutes on medium-low heat. This step helps the chicken soak up the bold flavors while maintaining its crispy exterior.
Tip: Add a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice during the simmering process to enhance the citrus notes.
Image 4 Placeholder
An ultra-realistic image of golden chicken pieces tossed in the mandarin orange sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Mandarin chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. For a satisfying meal, serve it over steamed jasmine or fried rice. For a healthier option, pair it with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
A well-rounded dish should include stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. The vibrant colors of the vegetables add visual appeal while complementing the tangy and savory chicken.
Explore more side ideas with chicken dishes.
Tips & Variations for Mandarin Chicken
Mandarin Chicken can be customized in countless ways to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a healthier preparation method or want to experiment with bold flavors, these tips and variations have you covered.
Expert Tips for Success
- Control the Sweetness: You can adjust the sauce’s sweetness by reducing or increasing the brown sugar. You can add a teaspoon of honey for a more prosperous, natural sweetness.
- To achieve Crispy Perfection, Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and develops a crunchy coating.
- Fresh Citrus is Key: Always use freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated zest. These ingredients give the sauce a bright and authentic flavor.
Creative Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Coat them in cornstarch before frying for a crispy texture.
- Healthier Option: Skip frying altogether by baking or air-frying the chicken. Simply coat the pieces lightly with oil and bake them at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of srCoathili garlic sauce to the mandarin sauce for a spicy kick.
Discover more ways to enjoy classic chicken dishes.
FAQs About Mandarin Chicken
Is Mandarin Chicken the same as Orange Chicken?
No, Mandarin Chicken differs from Orange Chicken in its flavor profile. While Orange Chicken is heavily sweet, Mandarin Chicken highlights tangy citrus flavors with a savory balance.
What is Mandarin Sauce made of?
Mandarin sauce combines fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and orange zest. It is thickened with a cornstarch slurry for a glossy finish.
What does Mandarin Sauce taste like?
Mandarin sauce has a balanced taste that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly savory. The citrus notes from the orange juice and zest are the defining features.
What is chicken meat in Mandarin?
In Mandarin Chinese, chicken meat is called “鸡肉” (jī ròu), which directly translates to “chicken meat.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mandarin chicken is a delightful dish that requires cut chicken to coat in a flavorful brown sauce. A comprehensive ingredients list ensures a successful stir-fry. Cooking times of 3-4 minutes are crucial, so a thermometer can help achieve the perfect temperature.
Remember to refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For health-conscious readers, a nutritionist might suggest using a calculator to assess calorie intake. Finally, carefully add your favorite meal for a satisfying meal that encourages reader interactions with family and friends.
Mandarin chicken is a delightful blend of crispy textures and tangy, savory flavors that can elevate any meal. This homemade version ensures you enjoy all the restaurant-quality goodness with the added benefit of fresh ingredients and customizable options. Whether served over rice or with stir-fried vegetables, it always impresses.
