When takeout cravings hit but your wallet says no, Trader Joe's BBQ Teriyaki Chicken steps in as a reliable freezer hero. It promises tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, all ready to serve in under 10 minutes. But does it deliver the flavor punch you're hoping for?
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Review
This frozen entrée features marinated, fully cooked dark meat chicken, accompanied by two packets of teriyaki sauce. Priced at $5.99 for a 21-ounce bag, it offers convenience and portion flexibility. The chicken pieces are sizable, and the inclusion of separate sauce packets allows you to control the sauciness to your preference.
Upon opening the bag, the chicken pieces are generously sized and appear well-cooked. The separate sauce packets are a thoughtful touch, giving you the option to use as much or as little as you like.
Cooking is straightforward. While the microwave method is quick, I found that stovetop preparation yields better texture, allowing the chicken to crisp slightly and the sauce to thicken into a more appealing glaze.
Flavor-wise, the teriyaki sauce leans on the sweeter side, with hints of soy and ginger. It's pleasant but lacks the depth and charred notes that you'd expect from a traditional BBQ teriyaki. The chicken itself is tender, though some pieces can be a bit fatty, which is typical for dark meat.
While it's not a perfect substitute for restaurant-quality teriyaki, it's a convenient and satisfying option for a quick meal. Pairing it with rice and steamed vegetables can elevate the dish and balance the sweetness of the sauce.
How to Serve
Stovetop: Heat a teaspoon of oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the frozen chicken pieces and cook until heated through, about 6-8 minutes. Add the thawed sauce and stir until the chicken is well-coated and the sauce thickens.
Microwave: Place the frozen chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 3-4 minutes. Add the thawed sauce, stir, and continue heating in 1-2 minute increments until hot.
Creative Uses
- Teriyaki Bowl: Serve over steamed rice with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the chicken into lettuce leaves, top with shredded carrots and chopped peanuts for a fresh twist.
- Stir-Fry: Combine with stir-fried noodles and your choice of vegetables for a hearty dish.
- Pizza Topping: Use as a topping for a flatbread pizza, adding mozzarella and green onions before baking.
FAQs about Trader Joe's BBQ Chicken Teriyaki
No, the teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory without any heat.
Yes, both the chicken and sauce can be cooked from frozen, though thawing the sauce beforehand helps it heat more evenly.
No, the sauce contains soy sauce, which includes wheat
I wanted mine to look more like the picture on the package, so I got creative and added Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel Seasoning. Yes, the sesame adds a nice touch but is sold separately:
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe's BBQ Teriyaki Chicken offers a convenient solution for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal. While it may not replicate the depth of flavor found in restaurant versions, its ease of preparation and versatility make it a valuable addition to your freezer staples. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that's both simple and enjoyable.
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Trader Joe's BBQ Teriyaki Chicken
Product Name: Trader Joe's BBQ Teriyaki Chicken
Product Description: Sweet, saucy, and ready in minutes, Trader Joe’s BBQ Teriyaki Chicken is a freezer favorite for easy weeknight dinners.
Price: $5.99
Summary
Trader Joe's BBQ Chicken Teriyaki is a long standing favorite in the freezer case
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Convenient: Quick and easy to prepare.
- Customizable: Separate sauce packets allow for flavor control.
- Versatile: Can be used in various dishes beyond just serving over rice.
Cons
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Sweetness: The sauce may be too sweet for some tastes.
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Texture: Microwaving can result in a less desirable texture compared to stovetop cooking.
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Flavor Depth: Lacks the smoky, charred flavor typical of BBQ teriyaki.
I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.