Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that will brighten your dinner table and delight your taste buds, look no further than this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re whipping up a quick meal during a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion.

What makes this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken truly special is the balance of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by fresh ingredients. The tender chicken thighs soak up the delicious orange sauce, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, dinner is ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and tangy flavor of this dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or serve it over rice or noodles based on your family’s preferences.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the marinade in advance for an even quicker meal on busy nights.
• Fresh Flavors: Using wholesome ingredients ensures each bite is packed with freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun! For this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, you’ll need simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a vibrant meal.

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 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 how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli florets or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to kick things up a notch.
• Citrus twist: Try using lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure even cooking and allows those delicious flavors to penetrate every piece of chicken. Season them lightly with salt and pepper before moving on to cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In your Blackstone griddle or skillet over medium-high heat, add avocado oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté these until they are tender but still crisp—about 3-4 minutes. Cooking these veggies first brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until well blended. This step is crucial because it creates that irresistible sauce that will coat your chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add your seasoned chicken pieces back into the griddle along with the sautéed vegetables. Pour that luscious sauce over everything. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure everything gets evenly coated and those flavors meld together wonderfully.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly sliced green onions for that pop of color! Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking at home can be a delightful adventure, especially when you can whip up something as flavorful as Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! Here are some tips to make your dish even more delicious.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken thighs to marinate in the orange juice mixture for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you have time) enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

• Preheat your Blackstone griddle: Getting your griddle nice and hot before adding the chicken helps achieve that perfect sear and locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary ensures that each piece of chicken gets that beautiful golden-brown color. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on how sweet or tangy you want your dish, feel free to tweak the amount of sugar or orange marmalade. Taste as you go!

• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite extra succulent.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Serving your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken in style will make it even more enjoyable. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, presentation matters!

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: Sprinkle these on top for a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nice nutty flavor and an appealing texture contrast.
• Cilantro leaves: A few fresh cilantro leaves provide a burst of herbal brightness that complements the orange sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: This classic side is perfect for soaking up all that delicious orange sauce. Fluffy white rice balances out the dish perfectly.

• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice offers a mild flavor and a wonderful texture that pairs well with the chicken.

• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas tossed in a light sauce provides a crunchy contrast and adds more nutrients to your meal.

• Noodles: Opt for rice noodles or udon noodles tossed in sesame oil for an Asian twist. They soak up flavors wonderfully and create a heartier meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge and can easily be reheated, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• You can also use a microwave; heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

I know you might have some questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken with chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They will cook in a similar manner but may require a few extra minutes due to their leaner nature.

How do I achieve the best flavor for my Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken thighs in a mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the taste significantly!

Is the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken spicy?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste – feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder dish!

What can I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

You can serve it over cooked white rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions for added flavor and color!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavors that will impress your family and friends. Remember, cooking at home is all about enjoying the process and sharing delicious moments around the table. Happy cooking!