Trader Joe's Orange Chicken: How Many Pieces Per Serving?

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular frozen food item from the American grocery store chain. It is widely regarded as a convenient and tasty meal option, albeit with a very sweet sauce. The product comes in different-sized trays, with the 12 oz container providing about 2 servings, the 16 oz size offering approximately 2.7 servings, and the 22 oz tray containing roughly 4 servings. Each serving is equivalent to 1 cup or 166 grams. The calorie count per cup is 320, with 24g of total carbs, 23g net carbs, 16g of fat, and 21g of protein.

Trader Joe's Orange Chicken nutritional value

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular item in the frozen aisle of the American grocery store chain. It consists of frozen, battered, deep-fried chicken chunks smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce. The chicken is pre-cooked, but it is recommended to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, either in an air fryer or an oven.

Nutritional information for the product can vary depending on the source. According to some sources, one cup of Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken contains 320 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 30% carbs, 44% fat, and 26% protein. It is said to provide 38% of the daily value of protein.

Other sources state that the entire bag of Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken, weighing 22.4 ounces, contains 1600 calories and 105 grams of protein. This higher calorie count may be due to the inclusion of the sauce in the calculation, as the sauce is noted to be high in sugar.

While the high protein and calorie content may be beneficial for those looking to build muscle, it is important to note that the product is not considered healthy by some. Adding vegetables and brown rice as sides can help improve the nutritional profile of the meal.

Overall, Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a convenient and popular option for those seeking a quick-fix dinner with a generous amount of protein and calories. However, the nutritional value, particularly the high sugar content, is something to be mindful of when incorporating it into one's diet.

How to cook Trader Joe's Orange Chicken

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular choice for those looking for a quick-fix dinner. The chicken is pre-cooked and frozen, and it can be cooked in an oven, skillet, or air fryer.

If you choose to cook it in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F for 10 minutes. Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until crisp and golden. It's important to note that oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on your chicken to ensure it doesn't overcook.

For those who prefer to use a skillet or don't have access to an oven, you can also cook the chicken on a stovetop. Simply place the chicken pieces in a skillet and cook until they are heated through and crispy. This method can be quicker than using an oven, but it's important to monitor the chicken closely to avoid overcooking or burning.

Another popular option is to use an air fryer. This method is said to produce excellent results and is worth considering if you have access to one. Simply follow the instructions for cooking frozen chicken in your air fryer, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Regardless of the cooking method you choose, the key to achieving the signature Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken flavour is in the sauce. The chicken should be cooked without the sauce, and then the sauce should be added after. This ensures the sauce doesn't burn and gives the dish its signature glisten and aroma.

Serving sizes for Trader Joe's Orange Chicken

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular item at the American grocery store chain. The product comes in a few different tray sizes, with the most common being 12 oz, 16 oz, and 22 oz. The chicken is pre-cooked and frozen, and it is recommended to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which can be done in an air fryer or oven.

The serving size for the Trader Joe's Orange Chicken is 1 cup or 166 grams. The 12 oz container has approximately 2 servings, making it a good individual portion. The 16 oz container has about 2.7 servings, suitable for 1 very hungry person or 2 smaller meals for 1 person. The large 22 oz container has around 4 servings and can feed 2 people or provide multiple meals for 1 person.

Each serving of the Trader Joe's Orange Chicken contains 320 calories, 16g of fat, 24g of total carbs, 23g of net carbs, 21g of protein, and 105 grams of protein for the entire bag. The product is praised for its flavor, juicy chicken, convenience, and value compared to other frozen meals.

Leftovers of the Trader Joe's Orange Chicken can be used in various dishes such as fried rice, tacos, salads, sandwiches, and meal prep containers for quick lunches or dinners. It can also be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator, but it is important to consume it within 3-5 days for food safety.

Cost of Trader Joe's Orange Chicken

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular item on the menu, often referred to as the "holy grail" of the store's offerings. It is a convenient, quick-fix meal, with a generous portion of chicken and a sweet and spicy sauce.

The cost of the Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken varies depending on the size of the container. The 12 oz container typically serves two people and is priced at $4.99. The 16 oz option, suitable for one very hungry person or two smaller meals, will cost a little more. The large 22 oz container, which can feed two people or provide multiple meals for one person, will be the most expensive option.

The chicken comes pre-cooked and frozen, and it is recommended that it is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The best methods for cooking are the oven or an air fryer.

The Mandarin Orange Chicken is a good option for those looking for a high-calorie, high-protein meal. It contains 1600 calories and 105 grams of protein, offering excellent value for money in terms of calories and protein per dollar.

While some have questioned the quality and authenticity of the nutrition facts, the general consensus is that the Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a tasty, convenient, and affordable meal option.

Other options similar to Trader Joe's Orange Chicken

Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular choice for those seeking a convenient, tasty, and affordable meal. However, if you're looking for other options similar to this iconic dish, there are several alternatives available:

P.F. Chang's Orange Chicken

If you're seeking a more upscale and sophisticated version of this classic takeout dish, P.F. Chang's offers an orange chicken meal that stands out for its presentation and fresh taste. While it is pricier than Trader Joe's option, it may be a better choice if you prefer a sweeter sauce and a more elegant dining experience.

Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express is another well-known option for orange chicken. Their version is described as having a winning combination of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors. It is also more affordable than P.F. Chang's, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance between taste and value.

Costco's "Bare Chicken"

For those who prioritize meat quality, Costco offers "Bare Chicken," which is mentioned as having better quality meat than Trader Joe's. While it may require additional seasoning to achieve the desired flavor profile, it could be a good alternative if you're seeking a higher-quality chicken base for your orange chicken cravings.

Trader Joe's Shrimp Boom Bah

For a different protein option, Trader Joe's Shrimp Boom Bah can be paired with their Mandarin Orange Chicken sauce. This combination allows you to enjoy two distinct flavors—the Boom Bah sauce with the crispy chicken and the mandarin orange sauce with the breaded shrimp. This hack provides a creative way to experience two popular Trader Joe's items in one meal.

These options showcase the variety of choices available for orange chicken enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking a change in sauce, meat quality, or simply want to explore new flavors, these alternatives offer similar satisfaction to Trader Joe's beloved Mandarin Orange Chicken.

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