When it comes to frozen meals, Trader Joe’s has earned a loyal following, and there’s one dish that seems to consistently rise above the rest: Mandarin Orange Chicken. It’s a staple for many TJ’s shoppers, who often make a beeline for the freezer section to grab this beloved meal. But what makes it so special? Why has this dish maintained its popularity for nearly two decades? Let’s take a closer look at what makes Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken a consistent favorite and why it might just be the perfect addition to your next meal.
A Longtime Fan Favorite
Trader Joe’s introduced Mandarin Orange Chicken in 2004, and since then, it’s been a runaway hit. In fact, this frozen meal has topped customer polls for “Best Overall TJ’s Product” for years, and it’s easy to see why. The convenience and flavor make it a go-to option for quick dinners, lazy lunches, or even party appetizers. The dish is so well-loved that it was ranked number one in Tasting Table’s 2024 review of 17 different frozen Asian-inspired foods from Trader Joe’s.
What sets it apart? For many, it’s the combination of crispy, breaded chicken and a sauce that’s both sweet and tangy, offering a restaurant-quality experience right from the comfort of your own kitchen. I personally have lost count of how many times I’ve picked up this product, but it’s easily been over a hundred bags throughout the years—and I’m not alone in that.
Affordable and Delicious
One of the first things you notice about Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is the price. At just $4.99 for a 22-ounce bag, it’s a budget-friendly meal option that offers a lot of bang for your buck. The package claims to serve five, but for most of us, it’s more like three servings—perfect for a small family or for meal prepping for the week.
While the price is appealing, it’s really the flavor that keeps people coming back. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, the combination of crispy chicken and zesty mandarin orange sauce feels indulgent yet approachable. It’s a meal you can throw together in minutes, but one that feels far more satisfying than your typical frozen dinner.
The Secret to Its Success: Flavor and Convenience
The beauty of Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is in its simplicity. Straight from the freezer, you can have this meal ready in about 10 minutes if you use an air fryer or preheated oven. That’s a major win for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like spending much time in the kitchen. The chicken pieces, made from breaded dark meat, come out both crispy and tender, providing a satisfying bite every time.
But the real star of the show is the sauce. Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken features a sauce made with fresh ingredients like California oranges, ginger, garlic, and green onions, all brought together with a soy sauce base. This balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors is what gives the dish its signature taste.
There’s more than one way to cook this dish, too. While it’s tempting to just microwave the sauce and toss it with the chicken (and trust me, I’ve done that on busy nights), there’s a better method if you have a little more time. Let the sauce packets defrost as the chicken cooks, then heat them in a wok or nonstick pan. As the sauce sizzles and caramelizes, stir in the crispy chicken, letting it coat every piece. This method not only elevates the texture but also enhances the flavors, giving the dish a more homemade feel.
Pairing for the Perfect Meal
While Mandarin Orange Chicken is delicious on its own, it really shines when paired with a few simple sides. You can easily turn this dish into a full meal by serving it over a bed of rice and adding some vegetables. Trader Joe’s has a variety of frozen rice options that cook in minutes, making it an easy pairing for the chicken. You could also steam some broccoli, snap peas, or any veggie of your choice to round out the meal and add a bit more color to your plate.
For those feeling a little creative, you can even turn this dish into an appetizer by placing toothpicks in each piece of chicken and serving it at a gathering. The sweet and savory flavor is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and it requires minimal effort on your part.
Why It Stands Out
There are plenty of frozen meal options out there, but what sets Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken apart is the quality it offers at such a reasonable price. Many frozen meals sacrifice flavor or texture for the sake of convenience, but this dish manages to balance both. The crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce feel like something you’d get from your favorite takeout spot, but without the wait or the higher cost.
It’s also versatile. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family, or guests, this dish works for nearly any occasion. It’s quick enough to make on a busy night but tasty enough to serve at a casual dinner party.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken has earned its place as a must-have in many households, and for good reason. It offers an unbeatable combination of flavor, convenience, and affordability, making it a perfect option for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, you’ll quickly see why so many people add it to their cart again and again.
As you stroll through Trader Joe’s frozen section on your next grocery run, don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for a bag (or two) of Mandarin Orange Chicken. After all, there’s something comforting about knowing that a delicious, easy meal is just a few minutes away.
