Costco Orange Chicken Cooking Instructions & Full Guide

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

Relish the delicious **Costco Orange Chicken** in your own kitchen—this popular meal is simple to prepare! 😋🍽️🏡

This frozen entree features crispy breaded chicken pieces tossed in a tangy and sweet orange sauce, making it a favorite among adults and children. 

While the package comes with cooking instructions, it can be helpful to have a detailed guide to ensure the best possible outcome.

Here are our Costco Orange Chicken cooking instructions.

Cooking Instructions For The Costco Orange Chicken

The cooking instructions for Costco Orange Chicken [1] can vary depending on the preparation method. However, this product’s most common cooking instructions involve baking the chicken in the oven or pan-frying it on the stovetop. 

Here are the detailed cooking instructions for both methods:

Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F.
• Remove the chicken from the packaging and place it in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake the chicken for 18-20 minutes, flipping it over once halfway through cooking.
• Once the chicken is cooked, please remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Read: Costco Ribs Cooking Instructions

Pan-frying:

• Heat some oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Remove the chicken from the packaging and add it to the skillet in a single layer.
• Cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side until it is crispy and golden brown.
• Once the chicken is cooked, please remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil before serving.

It is essential to follow the cooking instructions carefully to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and has a crispy texture.

Additionally, the chicken can be served with the included orange sauce and garnished with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor.

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Ingredients Included In The Package

Costco Orange Chicken package typically includes breaded and pre-cooked chicken pieces and a packet of orange sauce. 

The breaded chicken is usually made from chicken breast meat and is coated with a crispy breading that can include ingredients like wheat flour, cornstarch, salt, and spices. 

The orange sauce packet usually contains a combination of ingredients such as water, sugar, soy sauce, orange juice concentrate, vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, and xanthan gum, which gives it a slightly thickened consistency. 

It is essential to check the ingredients list on the packaging before preparing the dish, as some ingredients may vary depending on the brand or variation of the product.

Read: Costco Ravioli Lasagna Cooking Instructions

How Long Does It Take To Cook The Costco Orange Chicken?

The cooking time for Costco Orange Chicken can vary depending on the method of preparation and the equipment used. However, the average cooking time for baking the chicken in the oven is around 18-20 minutes at 400°F. 

Pan-frying the chicken on the stovetop takes around 4-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is crispy and golden brown.

Ensuring that the chicken is cooked thoroughly is essential, as undercooked chicken can pose a risk of foodborne illness. 

Following the cooking instructions on the packaging is recommended, and using a food thermometer ensures the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Also Read: Costco Stuffed Salmon Cooking Instructions

Can It Be Cooked In An Air Fryer Or Oven?

The Costco Orange Chicken can be cooked in an air fryer or oven.

To cook the chicken in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400°F, place the chicken pieces in the fryer basket, and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and fully cooked. 

“When I’m, like, 30, I want to go off the map, have a family and live in Malibu with a farm, and just raise my own chickens.”

– Kylie Jenner, American Media Personality

To cook the chicken in the oven, preheat the oven to 400°F, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet, and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and fully cooked. 

Regardless of the cooking method, it is essential to follow the cooking instructions on the packaging to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and at a safe temperature.

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Tips For Making The Best-Tasting Costco Orange Chicken

1. Cook the chicken per the instructions on the packaging to ensure it is crispy and fully cooked.
2. Add fresh or roasted vegetables like broccoli [2], bell peppers, or snow peas to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
3. Toss the chicken in the orange sauce immediately after cooking to ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes to add flavor and texture.
5. Try adding a squeeze of fresh orange juice or orange zest to the sauce for a more intense orange flavor.
6. Serve the dish with steamed rice or noodles to balance the sweet and tangy flavor of the chicken.
7. If you prefer a spicier version, add a few drops of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the orange sauce.
8. Don’t overcrowd the chicken while cooking; it can result in steaming instead of frying and make it less crispy.

FAQs

Key Takeaways

Costco Orange Chicken is a delicious and convenient meal option for those looking for an easy and flavorful dinner. 

Following the cooking instructions provided on the packaging can be quickly and easily prepared in a skillet or in the oven.

Additionally, with the option to use an air fryer, it’s an excellent option for those looking for a healthier cooking method. 

The Costco Orange Chicken can be transformed into an even more delicious meal by keeping some helpful tips in mind, such as using a non-stick pan and incorporating additional seasonings.

References:

1. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/61024/asian-orange-chicken/
2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/broccoli