mandarin orange chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best mandarin orange chicken recipe

I’ve been making this Mandarin orange chicken recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated in China, where mandarin oranges are a staple fruit.

The sweetness of the oranges pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken. I love how easy it is to make this recipe, and it’s a great way to get my kids to eat healthy.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the oranges. Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest give the dish its unique flavor.

I like to serve this recipe with steamed vegetables and brown rice for a well-rounded meal. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to taste the finished product. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as an entree or add it to a buffet spread.

Mandarin Orange Chicken

4.6 from 1618 votes

A sweet and tangy stir-fry featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy mandarin orange sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, served over steamed rice.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce

1 cup mandarin orange juice (from about 4 mandarins)
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
1 teaspoon sesame oil

For Garnish

2 mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces with cornstarch, soy sauce, and white pepper.
2Toss well to coat evenly and let marinate for 10 minutes.
3Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
5While chicken cooks, prepare the sauce.
6In a small bowl, whisk together mandarin orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
7Reduce heat to medium and pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken.
8Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
9Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and stir well.
10Continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken, becoming glossy.
11Remove skillet from heat and drizzle sesame oil over the chicken.
12Stir to combine.
13Garnish with mandarin orange segments, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the ginger. Substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes to avoid dryness.

Watch Video Of How Mandarin Orange Chicken Works

This mandarin orange chicken recipe is one I come back to again and again because it is so reliable and delicious. It works perfectly for a family dinner on a Tuesday or for a larger gathering when you want something that feels special without a lot of fuss.

The sweet and tangy sauce with tender chicken always gets rave reviews. For leftovers I store the chicken and sauce in a sealed container in the fridge.

To reheat I warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a little water to loosen the sauce. It tastes just as good the next day.

I also like to serve it over rice or even with a side of steamed vegetables. It is a versatile dish that fits any occasion and makes everyone at the table happy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mandarin Orange Chicken

1. Can I use canned mandarin oranges for this recipe?

Yes you can use canned mandarin oranges but make sure to drain them well. Fresh oranges give a brighter flavor and more natural sweetness. If you use canned the sauce may be slightly sweeter and less tangy.

2. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce you can mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and add it to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir until the sauce thickens to your liking. This works well for a glossier coating.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes you can make it gluten free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Also check that your honey and any other ingredients are gluten free. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten free.

4. How long does this chicken keep in the fridge?

Leftover mandarin orange chicken will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back the sauce. The microwave works too but the texture is better on the stove.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely you can add vegetables like bell peppers snap peas or broccoli. Add them to the pan after the chicken is cooked and sauté for a few minutes before adding the sauce. This adds color and nutrition to the meal.

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