Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of Asian cuisine into your home, then you’re in for a treat with this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! This dish is not only bursting with bright citrus flavors, but it also brings that satisfying takeout vibe straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up dinner on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

One of my favorite things about this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is how quickly it comes together. With just a handful of simple ingredients and about 35 minutes from start to finish, you can create a meal that feels special without all the fuss. Plus, it’s perfect for serving with rice or noodles, making it versatile for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and tangy flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes great reheated!
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh orange juice and marmalade creates an irresistible sauce!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should feel enjoyable, and having simple, wholesome ingredients makes all the difference! Here’s what you need for this 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

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

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try to customize your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or tofu instead of thighs for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers if you like heat in your dishes.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

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 soak up all those delicious flavors from the sauce. Season them lightly with salt and pepper before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil in your Blackstone griddle over medium heat. Add the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they’re tender and slightly caramelized—this brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add your seasoned chicken pieces to the griddle alongside the veggies. Cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures that they sear nicely.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this luscious mixture over your chicken and veggies once they are fully cooked. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Let everything simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully while thickening up the sauce just a bit. Keep an eye on it; you want it bubbling but not boiling over!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once everything is cooked through and coated in that bright orange sauce, it’s time to serve! Whether you choose fluffy white rice or noodles as your base, make sure to drizzle some of that delicious sauce over top. Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor!

And there you have it—a delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire! Enjoy every last bite of your homemade Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking at home can be a breeze when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts; they stay juicy and tender, making them perfect for this dish.
• Marinate for flavor: If you have extra time, marinating the chicken in some of the orange juice and soy sauce for 30 minutes will deepen the flavor.
• Keep it hot: Ensure your Blackstone griddle is preheated before adding the chicken. This helps to achieve that lovely caramelization on the outside while keeping it moist inside.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if needed allows for even cooking and prevents steaming, which keeps the chicken crispy.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting sweetness or acidity by adding more orange juice or sugar during cooking can elevate the dish to your personal preference.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

When it comes to serving Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, presentation is key! A vibrant plate filled with colorful ingredients not only looks appealing but also enhances the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a delightful crunch and a pop of color that brightens up the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top introduces a nutty flavor and an appealing texture contrast.
• Fresh cilantro: A handful of cilantro leaves can bring a refreshing herbal note that complements the citrusy flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: The classic choice! Fluffy white rice absorbs all those delicious orange sauce flavors, making every bite satisfying.
• Cauliflower rice: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice offers a low-carb alternative that pairs wonderfully with the rich chicken.
• Stir-fried vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli tossed in soy sauce provide freshness and balance to the meal.
• Noodles: Whether you prefer lo mein or rice noodles, they serve as a fantastic base for soaking up that sweet and tangy orange sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Preparing it in advance not only saves time during busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the chicken cool down before freezing.
• Place in 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 overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you’re curious about any aspect of this recipe, read on!

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

Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide juiciness and flavor, you can substitute them with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken spicier?

To amp up the heat in your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced fresh chili peppers. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick!

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Add some steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version of Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is orange marmalade necessary for this recipe?

While orange marmalade adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor to your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, you can substitute it with additional orange juice or even apricot jam if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as much as I do! This recipe is not only simple but bursting with vibrant flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to share your results – I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!