Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in the Air Fryer: A Quick, Crispy, and Authentic Recipe Guide
If you’re a fan of Trader Joe’s frozen Orange Chicken but tired of soggy results from microwaving or the mess of deep-frying, using an air fryer is your new best friend. This method delivers the crispy, tangy, sweet orange-glazed chicken you love—with far less oil, faster cook times, and a texture that rivals takeout. After testing multiple batches, I’ve nailed the steps to ensure your air-fried Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken comes out perfectly golden, flavorful, and satisfying every time. Here’s everything you need to know to master this easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Why Air Frying Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken Works So Well
Trader Joe’s frozen Orange Chicken is already a fan favorite for its balanced sweet-and-sour sauce and tender chicken pieces. But traditional cooking methods often leave it greasy (if deep-fried) or soft (if microwaved). The air fryer changes the game by using hot, circulating air to crisp the chicken’s exterior while locking in moisture. Unlike baking, which can dry out the meat, or pan-frying, which requires constant attention, the air fryer delivers consistent results with minimal cleanup. Plus, it cuts down on added oil—key for those looking to enjoy the dish more healthily without sacrificing taste.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients and Tools
Before diving into the recipe, gather these essentials. Most items are pantry staples, and the star—Trader Joe’s Frozen Orange Chicken—is available year-round in most stores.
Ingredients:
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1 bag (16 oz) Trader Joe’s Frozen Orange Chicken (found in the freezer section, near other Asian-inspired entrees)
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1–2 tbsp avocado oil or vegetable oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
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For the sauce (if you want to double down):
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2 tbsp orange marmalade (Trader Joe’s has a great unsweetened version)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
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½ tsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
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Tools:
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Air fryer (any brand, 3.5–5 qt capacity works)
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Parchment paper or air fryer liner (to prevent sticking)
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Tongs or a spatula (for flipping)
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Small bowl (for mixing extra sauce, if using)
Step-by-Step: Cooking Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in the Air Fryer
Follow these steps for chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in that signature orange glaze.
Step 1: Prep the Frozen Chicken
Start by removing the Orange Chicken from the freezer. Do not thaw it first—air frying frozen chicken directly ensures it cooks evenly and stays moist. If the pieces are stuck together, gently separate them with a fork or your fingers. Place the chicken in a single layer on a plate or tray; this helps them freeze individually for easier air frying later.
Step 2: Oil (Optional, but Recommended for Crispiness)
Lightly toss the frozen chicken pieces in 1–2 tbsp of oil. This step isn’t mandatory, but it adds an extra layer of crispness, especially if your air fryer tends to under-crisp frozen foods. Use a high-heat oil like avocado or grapeseed—avoid olive oil, which has a lower smoke point.
Step 3: Air Fry Settings for Perfect Crisp
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the basket is hot enough to start crisping the chicken immediately. Once preheated, spread the chicken in a single layer in the basket—don’t overcrowd it (work in batches if needed). Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Pro Tip: Check at 12 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown with slightly crispy edges. If it needs more time, cook in 2-minute increments until done. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, so aim for just-crisp.
Step 4: Add the Glaze (Optional, for Extra Flavor)
While the chicken cooks, mix your sauce: In a small bowl, combine orange marmalade, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sriracha (if using). Microwave for 10–15 seconds to loosen it up, then brush or spoon it over the chicken during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Be careful—the glaze will bubble and caramelize quickly, adding that sticky, sweet-tangy finish.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite stays moist. Serve hot over rice (try Trader Joe’s Brown Rice or Cauliflower Rice for a lighter option), with steamed broccoli or a side of sesame seeds for crunch.
Why This Method Beats Takeout (and Other Cooking Hacks)
Air frying Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken isn’t just convenient—it’s better in several ways. First, you control the oil content, making it lighter than deep-fried versions. Second, the air fryer’s even heat prevents the chicken from drying out, unlike microwaving. And third, you can customize the glaze to your liking—add more sriracha for spice, extra marmalade for sweetness, or a squeeze of fresh orange juice for brightness.
For even crispier results, try freezing the chicken uncovered on a tray for 1 hour before air frying. This “flash-freezes” the surface, creating a drier exterior that crisps up faster. Alternatively, if you have leftover cooked chicken, reheat it in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes—this revives crispness better than a microwave.
Common Questions Answered
Q: Can I use fresh orange juice instead of marmalade?
A: Yes, but marmalade adds a deeper, more concentrated orange flavor and acts as a natural thickener. If using fresh juice, mix it with 1 tsp cornstarch to prevent the glaze from being too runny.
Q: My chicken is soggy—what went wrong?
A: Overcrowding the air fryer basket is the most common issue. Cook in batches, and avoid adding the glaze too early (it can drip and steam the chicken). Also, ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding sauce—undercooked meat releases more moisture.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken is labeled gluten-free, but check the packaging to confirm. If using soy sauce, opt for tamari (gluten-free) to keep it safe.
Final Thoughts: Your Go-To Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Air frying Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s quick, customizable, and delivers the crispy, flavorful results you crave without the hassle of takeout or deep-frying. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or tweak the glaze, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and don’t forget to save leftovers—they reheat beautifully in the air fryer for lunch the next day.
Enjoy your crispy, tangy, and utterly satisfying Orange Chicken—no delivery app required.