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The Truth About Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken
Trader Joe’s is known for its wide variety of unique and delicious food offerings. Among its many offerings, one item stands out and has captured the hearts and taste buds of customers year after year: Trader Joe’s Tangerine Orange Chicken. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the immense popularity of this frozen entree and delve into what makes it so special.
Customer Choice Awards and Dominance
Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken has been dominating the Customer Choice Awards since 2017, when it took the title of Favorite Overall, dethroning the beloved cookie butter. In addition to winning the top spot, it also secured the Favorite Frozen category, outperforming other fan favorites like diner-style mac n’ cheese, French-cut green beans, chicken tikka masala, and even the mouthwatering four chocolate croissants.
Irresistible flavor combinations
What makes Trader Joe’s Tangerine Orange Chicken so irresistible? Let’s dive into the delicious flavor combination that keeps fans coming back for more. This frozen entree features tender chunks of chicken coated in a crispy breading. But the real magic is in the house sauce that accompanies it.
The house sauce is a perfect blend of California orange zest, fresh ginger, fresh garlic, fresh green onions and soy sauce. These ingredients come together to create a caramelized, sweet and tangy combination of flavors that is simply mouthwatering. The sauce is designed to be heated in a hot wok while the chicken tenders are baking in the oven, ensuring that every bite is infused with the delicious sauce.
Easy to prepare and enjoy
Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken not only delivers on taste, but also on convenience. The package includes clear instructions for the best results. Baking the chicken tenders according to the instructions and then combining them with the preheated sauce creates a dish that any home cook would be proud to serve.
The appeal of Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken goes beyond customer choice awards. Respected food sites like The Kitchn and Delish have also recognized its excellence, rating it as one of the best items Trader Joe’s has to offer. The positive reviews from both customers and experts further solidify its reputation as a must-try dish.
A continuing legacy
As we look to the future, the question is: Will Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken continue to dominate the Customer Choice Awards year after year? While only time will tell, the odds seem to be in its favor. With its unbeatable combination of flavors and widespread acclaim, it is poised to maintain its top spot and fend off challengers like the popular Cauliflower Gnocchi.
In conclusion, Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a frozen entree that has captured the hearts and taste buds of customers everywhere. Its winning flavor combination, ease of preparation and widespread acclaim have solidified its position as a fan favorite and a top contender in the culinary world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or have yet to try this delicious dish, Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is definitely worth a spot in your shopping cart.
FAQS
Answer: Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is popular for its irresistible flavor combination of tender chicken coated in crispy breading and accompanied by a house sauce made with California orange zest, fresh ginger, fresh garlic, fresh green onions and soy sauce. The resulting caramelized, sweet and spicy flavors make it a crowd favorite.
How do I cook Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken?
Answer: The best way to prepare Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is to bake the chicken tenders according to the instructions while heating the thawed sauce in a hot wok. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to the sizzling sauce, allowing the flavors to meld for a delicious result.
Can Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken be considered an easy-to-prepare dish?
Answer: Yes, Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is known for its ease of preparation. The packaging provides clear instructions, and the combination of baking the chicken and reheating the sauce makes for an easy and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by both experienced and novice cooks.
What other awards has Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken won?
Answer: Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken has not only taken the top spot in the Customer Choice Awards, but has also earned praise from respected food sites such as The Kitchn and Delish. These accolades further validate its status as one of Trader Joe’s best offerings.
Does Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken have a unique cooking technique?
Answer: Yes, Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken has a unique cooking technique. While the chicken tenders are baked in the oven, the sauce is heated separately in a hot wok. This method ensures that the chicken remains crispy while allowing the flavors of the sauce to fully infuse the dish.
Will Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken continue to be a customer favorite?
Answer: While the future is uncertain, Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken’s enduring popularity, consistent recognition and loyal customer base suggest that it will likely remain a popular option for years to come. Its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation make it a standout choice in the frozen aisle.