Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table, then you’re in for a treat with this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, not just because of its irresistible taste but also due to how easy it is to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish will make everyone feel like they’re enjoying takeout from their favorite restaurant—all without leaving the comfort of home.

Imagine succulent chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, perfectly complemented by fresh veggies. It’s one of those meals that always gets rave reviews from friends and family. Plus, the best part? You can whip it up in just 35 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any table.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a meal that suits every preference.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh oranges and savory spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for this recipe! Each one plays an important role in creating that mouthwatering Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken we all crave.

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 things about Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have available or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or tofu if you prefer a different protein source.
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli florets or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Make it citrusy: Experiment with lemon or lime juice for a different citrus twist.

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 allows them to soak up all that delicious sauce. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Don’t skip this step; seasoning makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In your Blackstone griddle or skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they are tender—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Cooking these veggies first enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Push the veggies aside on your griddle and add the seasoned chicken pieces. Let them sear until they are golden brown on all sides. This step locks in moisture and gives your chicken that juicy texture we all love.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over your cooked chicken and veggies. Bring everything to a simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve Up Your Dish

Once everything is cooked through and saucy goodness is bubbling away, it’s time to serve! Spoon your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over warm white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that perfect finishing touch!

And there you have it—a quick yet flavorful dish that will surely become a favorite in your household too! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking at home can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you nail a dish like this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs will keep your dish juicy and flavorful. Thighs have more fat than breasts, which helps retain moisture during cooking.

• Preheat your Blackstone griddle: Make sure your griddle is hot before adding the chicken. A well-heated surface helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in juices and creating that delicious golden exterior.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, which means your chicken won’t get that lovely char and may end up soggy.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender bite.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to match your taste preferences. Adding more orange marmalade for sweetness or extra ginger for spice can personalize this dish just for you!

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Presentation is key when serving your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken. The vibrant colors and delightful aroma will entice everyone at the table! Here are some ideas on how to present this mouthwatering dish:

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh and crunchy texture while providing a pop of color that brightens up the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds sprinkle beautifully on top and impart a nutty flavor that complements the orange sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The light and fragrant qualities of jasmine rice balance out the bold flavors of the orange chicken, making it a classic pairing.

• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice offers a subtle flavor that soaks up all the delicious sauce without overwhelming the palate.

• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed with garlic not only adds nutrition but also provides a delightful crunch alongside the tender chicken.

Enjoying your homemade Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken with these garnishes and sides will elevate your meal experience! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and handle your leftovers:

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 down entirely.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of orange juice if desired.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken.

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

Yes! While chicken thighs provide more juiciness, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

What can I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. You can also add steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal!

How do I adjust the sweetness of Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of sugar or orange marmalade used in the recipe. You can also add more soy sauce or vinegar for a savory balance.

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken without soy sauce?

Absolutely! You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is great for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and freezes nicely too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! It brings that delightful takeout flavor right into your kitchen while being simple enough for any home chef to tackle. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience or any variations you try—I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking!