Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and is sure to impress, then you’ve landed in the right place with this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The sweet and tangy orange sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken thighs, creating a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.

This dish not only satisfies your cravings for takeout but also fills your home with the warm, inviting aroma of fresh ingredients cooking together. It’s simple enough to whip up on a hectic evening yet special enough to serve at your next get-together. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and savory taste of the orange sauce appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken in advance for an even deeper flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles—whatever suits your mood!
• Simple Ingredients: These wholesome ingredients are easy to find and perfect for any pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is a breeze! You’ll find that most of these are likely already in your kitchen. Each element comes together beautifully to create a satisfying meal.

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

For the Sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these delicious variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes if you like a little more heat!
• Use different citrus: Substitute lemon or lime juice for a unique twist on the traditional 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 that wonderful sauce later on. Season them with salt and pepper to taste before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Heat Up Your Blackstone Griddle

Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat. Adding avocado oil once it’s hot will help achieve that beautiful sear on your chicken while keeping it juicy inside. This step is crucial as it locks in flavors!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped bell pepper and onion to your griddle. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our dish.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add your seasoned chicken pieces. Cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes should do the trick! Stir occasionally so every piece gets that lovely browning.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this delightful concoction over your cooked chicken and veggies on the griddle. Let everything simmer together for about 5-7 minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that fresh finish!

And there you have it—a delicious meal that’s sure to become one of your favorites! Enjoy every bite of this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken; I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking up this delicious Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Use high-quality chicken thighs: Opting for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts will result in juicier and more flavorful meat. Thighs have a higher fat content, which keeps them tender during cooking.

• Marinate for extra flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the orange juice and soy sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight). This step infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors that make every bite irresistible.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking, make sure to give your chicken enough space in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that lovely caramelization that enhances flavor and texture.

• Adjust spice levels: Tailor the heat level to your preference by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. You can start with less for a milder dish or add more if you enjoy a spicy kick!

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture, ensuring each piece is juicy and tender when served.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

This dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks beautiful on the plate! Here are some ideas to present your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken in style.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and crunch that complements the sweetness of the orange sauce.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds provides a nutty flavor and an appealing visual texture.
• Additional orange slices: Adding extra orange slices as garnish enhances presentation and adds freshness to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: Fluffy white rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all that delicious orange sauce. It’s simple yet satisfying!

• Cauliflower rice: For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is perfect. It has a mild flavor that pairs well with the vibrant orange chicken while keeping it light.

• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried in garlic adds crunch and nutrition, making for a balanced meal.

• Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in soy sauce or sesame oil create a delightful base that beautifully complements the tangy chicken.

Enjoy creating this delicious dish and watching your family savor each delectable bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, saving you time on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking!

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of orange juice if it seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken.

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

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep an eye on the cook time, as they may need slightly less time to cook through.

How can I make my Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken spicier?

To add more heat to your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Feel free to garnish with sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce alternatives such as tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure other ingredients like orange juice and marmalade are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken brings joy to your kitchen! It’s a delightful way to enjoy a takeout favorite without any fuss. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner solution, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I would love to hear how it turns out for you!