Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and brings a taste of takeout right to your kitchen, then you’ll love this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our home. It’s not just about the tangy orange sauce that coats those tender chicken thighs; it’s about the memories made around the dinner table, enjoying a meal that feels special yet is simple enough for busy weeknights.

Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner after a long day, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas will make your kitchen feel like a cozy restaurant. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it perfect for everyone.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal, or enjoy it as part of a larger feast!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time for effortless cooking when you’re ready.
• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy wholesome ingredients that create a delightful combination of flavors without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated, and this recipe proves just that! These simple, wholesome ingredients will help you create your own delicious version of Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken.

For the Chicken

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

Variations

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

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli florets or snap peas for extra nutrition and crunch.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer it milder, reduce the red pepper flakes or leave them out entirely.
• Citrus swap: Use different citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit for a unique twist on 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 makes them easy to eat. Season them with salt and pepper. Heat avocado oil in your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Searing the chicken until golden brown adds depth and flavor to our dish!

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once your chicken is nicely browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes), add in the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sautéing these veggies not only enhances their sweetness but also gives our dish great texture. Cook until they are tender but still have some crunch!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this delightful mixture over your chicken and veggies. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5-7 minutes. This step allows all those fantastic flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is cooked through and coated in that luscious sauce, it’s time to serve! Plate your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh sliced green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor!

Enjoy every bite of this delicious homemade Asian-inspired dish!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking up this delightful dish is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your chicken is perfectly juicy and flavorful!

• Choose the right cut of chicken: Opting for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts will give you a juicier result, as thighs have more fat and flavor.

• Marinate for maximum flavor: If you have time, marinating the chicken in the orange juice and soy sauce for 30 minutes can really enhance its taste, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeper.

• Preheat your Blackstone griddle well: Ensuring your griddle is hot enough before cooking helps achieve that beautiful sear on the chicken, locking in juices and adding a nice texture.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary will allow each piece of chicken to brown beautifully and cook evenly without steaming.

• Adjust sweetness to your taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar or marmalade to find the perfect balance of sweet and savory that suits your palate!

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Presenting your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be just as enjoyable as cooking it! With vibrant colors and delicious aromas, this dish deserves a beautiful setup.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These not only add a pop of color but also bring a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds both crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the orange notes.
• Cilantro leaves: Fresh cilantro can brighten up your dish with its herbaceous flavor, making every bite feel refreshing.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: This classic pairing acts as a blank canvas for soaking up all that delicious orange sauce, providing a satisfying base.
• Cauliflower rice: A low-carb alternative that still delivers on texture; it’s perfect for those seeking a lighter side option without sacrificing flavor.
• Noodles: Stir-fried or plain noodles can add an extra layer of heartiness to your meal. Toss them with some soy sauce for added flavor!
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable not only adds nutrition but also offers a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.

Enjoy creating this delectable dish at home and savor every juicy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chicken cool before packing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on a stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Yes! While chicken thighs bring a tender juiciness to the dish, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Just be mindful that they may cook a bit quicker.

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Feel free to add some steamed veggies on the side for a complete meal!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet flavor, consider reducing the amount of sugar or orange marmalade. You can also balance it with extra soy sauce or rice vinegar.

How do I make this recipe spicy?

To amp up the heat in your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking. Tailor it to your spice preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe! The combination of zesty orange flavors and juicy chicken is sure to bring smiles around your dining table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking!