Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to brighten up your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not only bursting with flavor but also brings a little taste of Asian takeout right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, it might just become a staple in your home!

The sweet and tangy orange sauce paired with tender chicken thighs creates an irresistible combination that everyone will love. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this meal together in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles to suit everyone’s taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ingredients ahead of time for an even faster cooking experience!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of orange juice, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking with simple, wholesome ingredients makes this recipe even more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need to create your very own Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken:

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil

For the Veggies

• 1 large bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 small onion, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 medium orange, thinly sliced with seeds removed
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons orange marmalade (such as Smucker’s)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced (squeezable type works well)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

To Serve

• Serve with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles
• Garnish with sliced green onions

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

One of the great things about this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some broccoli or snap peas to boost nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Citrus twist: Experiment with lemon or lime juice instead of orange for a fresh twist on the flavor.

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all those wonderful flavors from the sauce. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat Up Your Blackstone

Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil once it’s hot. The oil not only prevents sticking but also adds a lovely richness to the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the griddle. Cook until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through—about 7-10 minutes. This step locks in moisture and ensures your chicken remains juicy!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Toss in your chopped bell pepper and onion next. Sauté until they are tender but still crisp—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The veggies add color and texture that complement the juicy chicken beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this delightful mixture over the chicken and veggies on the griddle. Stir everything together until well-coated.

Step 6: Simmer

Allow everything to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This step is crucial as it melds all those tasty flavors together!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Once done, serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over cooked white rice or cauliflower rice. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions – they add a fresh crunch that completes this dish perfectly!

Enjoy your cooking adventure! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; I’m sure it will bring joy to your table just like it does mine!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking this delicious dish at home can be both fun and rewarding! Here are some tips to ensure your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken thighs marinate in the orange juice, soy sauce, and ginger for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: The orange marmalade and sugar provide sweetness, so feel free to tweak these amounts based on your preference for a sweeter or more savory dish.
• Cook in batches if necessary: If you have a small cooking surface, cooking the chicken in batches ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than searing.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will give you the best flavor. They add a vibrant kick that enhances the overall taste of your orange chicken.
• Don’t skip the garnishes: Adding sliced green onions not only adds color but also a mild onion flavor that perfectly complements the dish.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Serving your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be as delightful as preparing it! Think about how you can make this meal visually appealing as well as tasty.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of these adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
• Sesame seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds can offer an added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the orange sauce.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: Fluffy white rice is a classic accompaniment, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a light base that complements the flavors without overshadowing them.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds nutritional value and crunch to your meal.
• Noodles: Soft noodles tossed with a bit of sesame oil make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep! Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also easy to store and reheat, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of orange juice if needed for moisture.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you’re curious about making this delightful dish, here are some frequently asked questions!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, you can certainly substitute boneless chicken breasts. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep them tender.

What can I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or your favorite noodles. You might also consider steamed vegetables for a healthy side option!

How spicy is the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The red pepper flakes add a mild kick; feel free to reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use fresh oranges instead of orange juice in Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Yes! Freshly squeezed orange juice will enhance the flavors even further. Just ensure you have enough juice to replace the cup required in the recipe.

Is there a gluten-free version of Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Definitely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress loved ones without too much fuss. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking — I can’t wait for you to try it!