Name: Mandarin Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces and patted dry with paper towel); kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste); ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 2 teaspoons orange zest; ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons water; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional (add more if you like)); Sliced green onion and sesame seeds (for garnish)

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There’s something so comforting about a plate of Mandarin Chicken that just makes you feel at home. I remember the first time I tasted this dish at a small family gathering. It was one of those evenings where laughter filled the air, and the aroma of citrus and savory flavors danced through the kitchen. Each bite was a burst of sweetness from the orange juice, perfectly balanced by the soy sauce. I was hooked! Since then, I’ve made it countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my family’s taste. It’s become a staple in our household, especially on busy weeknights when we crave something quick, yet delicious. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, Mandarin Chicken never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Whisk, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

Why We Love This Mandarin Chicken

1. Flavor Explosion

The combination of orange juice and soy sauce creates a flavor explosion that is both refreshing and savory. The subtle sweetness of the honey adds depth, making every bite a delightful experience.

2. Quick and Easy

Mandarin Chicken is perfect for those nights when you want a homemade meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dish ready in no time.

3. Versatile Dish

This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the level of spiciness with the red pepper flakes.

4. Nutritional Boost

With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, Mandarin Chicken is a healthier option compared to many takeout meals. It’s packed with protein and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat well.

5. Family Favorite

This dish has quickly become a family favorite! My kids love it, and I appreciate that it’s something we can all enjoy together. It’s a great way to introduce them to new flavors while keeping things familiar.

6. Great for Meal Prep

If you like to meal prep, Mandarin Chicken is a fantastic option. It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for those busy weekday lunches.

Mandarin Chicken Shopping List

The ingredients for Mandarin Chicken come together seamlessly to create a dish that is as delicious as it is easy to prepare. The key players, like chicken, orange juice, and soy sauce, blend perfectly to form a rich, flavorful sauce that coats each piece of chicken beautifully.

1 tablespoon olive oil: This oil is essential for sautéing, adding a rich flavor and helping to cook the chicken evenly.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: This adds a nutty aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, tender and juicy, it absorbs the flavors of the marinade beautifully.
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken, bringing out its natural flavors.
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice: This gives the dish a vibrant, citrusy sweetness.
2 teaspoons orange zest: Adds a concentrated orange flavor that brightens the dish.
¼ cup soy sauce: Provides a savory, umami kick that balances the sweetness of the orange.
2 tablespoons water: Helps to combine the sauce ingredients without making it too thick.
2 tablespoons honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the citrus perfectly.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce to a perfect glaze consistency.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional: For those who like a bit of heat!
Sliced green onion and sesame seeds, for garnish: These add a beautiful finishing touch and crunch.

Step by Step Instructions for Mandarin Chicken

Cooking Mandarin Chicken is a breeze, and I love how each step builds on the last to create a mouthwatering dish. Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have a flavorful meal in no time!

Set a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add olive oil and toasted sesame oil. You want the oils to shimmer, which indicates they’re ready for cooking.
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper generously over the chicken. This step is crucial for flavor.
Cook the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for the outside to turn golden and no longer pink. It won’t be fully cooked inside just yet, but that’s okay.
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, water, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This mixture will create a delicious sauce.
Reduce the heat to medium and pour the sauce over the partially cooked chicken. Gently fold the chicken to combine with the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
Let it cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the sauce; it should thicken into a glaze. If you notice it darkening too quickly, reduce the heat further.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register 165° F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once done, remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onion and sesame seeds. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fresh crunch!
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Mandarin Chicken. It’s perfect on its own but can also be paired with rice or steamed vegetables.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: It’s crucial to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165° F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, create a slurry by whisking cornstarch with a small amount of water before mixing it back into the sauce.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or broccoli, for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Make It Your Own

Every cook has their personal touch, and Mandarin Chicken is no different! Here are some tips to help you customize this dish to your liking:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can freeze Mandarin Chicken for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
Adjusting Spice: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chilies to the dish.

Side Dish Ideas for Mandarin Chicken

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy texture complements the savory sauce beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked veggies add color and crunch, making your meal more nutritious.
Asian Noodle Salad: A refreshing salad made with rice noodles would balance the richness of the Mandarin Chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: A simple and healthy side, its slight bitterness pairs well with the sweet sauce.
Spring Rolls: These can make a delightful appetizer before diving into your main course.
Sesame Green Beans: The crunch and flavor of sesame green beans make a perfect complement to the dish.
Perfect for Lunch Boxes: Leftover Mandarin Chicken can be a delicious addition to lunch boxes, paired with rice or veggies.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to absorb the flavors better. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Once thawed, pat the chicken dry and follow the recipe as usual.

Mandarin Chicken pairs well with various sides, including steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a light salad. You can also serve it with noodles for a more filling meal. The sweet and savory flavors complement many options, so feel free to get creative with your sides!

If you’d like to add more heat to your Mandarin Chicken, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce or add some fresh diced chilies while cooking. Another option is to serve it with a spicy sauce or chili paste on the side, allowing each person to customize their level of spice.

Yes, Mandarin Chicken can be made ahead of time. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

Mandarin Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a must-try for any food lover. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress your family and friends. So why not give it a go tonight? You won’t be disappointed!

Mandarin Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Mandarin Chicken brings together sweet and savory flavors in a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Bursting with citrus goodness, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight!

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

Skillet
Whisk
Wooden Spoon
Chef's Knife

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces and patted dry with paper towel
kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 teaspoons orange zest
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional (add more if you like)
Sliced green onion and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Set a wok or large skillet with tall sides over medium-high heat. When hot, add the olive oil and toasted sesame oil.
Once oil starts to shimmer, carefully add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle the chicken fairly generously salt & pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, or just until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside (it will not be fully cooked on the inside).
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice and zest, soy sauce, water, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes.
Reduce heat to medium and add the sauce to the chicken. Fold to combine.
Cook the chicken for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened into a glaze and the internal temperature of the chicken registers 165° F. If the sauce is darkening too quickly, reduce the heat a bit more.
Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds, and enjoy hot.

Notes

This recipe makes enough for 2 larger portions or 4 small portions.
If the sauce is thinner than you’d like: Remove 2 tablespoons of the sauce to a small bowl or cup and whisk in 2 teaspoons of cornstarch to create a slurry. Then drizzle the slurry back into the skillet, whisking it into the bubbling sauce. Let the sauce cook for another minute or 2, until thickened.
If the sauce is thicker than you’d like: Whisk in some water or more freshly squeezed orange juice, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the sauce is to your desired consistency.