When it comes to easy and delicious weeknight dinners, Mandarin Chicken is a go-to classic that never fails to impress. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a flavorful sweet and tangy sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering Mandarin Chicken recipe.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
– 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Cooked rice, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the cornstarch until well coated. This will help to create a crispy exterior when cooking.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mandarin orange segments and cook for a minute or two until they start to caramelize slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, white vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the mandarin oranges, stirring well to combine.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is fully coated, remove the skillet from the heat.
7. Serve the Mandarin Chicken over cooked rice, garnished with sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor and color.
8. Enjoy your homemade Mandarin Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that your family and friends will love.
Mandarin Chicken is a delightful mix of savory and sweet, with a touch of heat from the red pepper flakes that adds a nice kick to each bite. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Try this recipe for a cozy night in or share it with loved ones during a casual gathering – either way, it’s bound to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Warm, flavorful, and undeniably delicious, Mandarin Chicken is a must-try recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
