Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not just a feast for the taste buds, but it also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that makes everyone excited about mealtime. It’s become a staple in my home because it’s incredibly easy to make and tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

Whether you’re navigating a busy weeknight or gathering friends and family for a cozy get-together, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The sweet and tangy orange sauce paired with tender chicken thighs creates an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet and savory flavors—it’s sure to be a hit at any table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making dinner stress-free.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a meal that suits everyone’s preferences.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh orange juice, garlic, and ginger creates a vibrant taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken shine. Each item adds its own special touch to the dish.

For the Chicken

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

For the Vegetables

• 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

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños if you love heat!
• Go citrusy: Substitute grapefruit juice for part of the orange juice for a unique 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 soak up all those delicious flavors. Season them with salt and pepper before moving on to cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In your Blackstone griddle or skillet, heat up avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add in your chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté them until they soften slightly—this step adds sweetness and depth to your dish!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add your seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook until golden brown on all sides. This locks in juices while creating a lovely crust that enhances flavor.

Step 4: 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 vibrant mixture over your chicken and let it simmer. Cooking it down allows all those amazing flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once everything is cooked through and coated in that luscious sauce—serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle those fresh green onions on top for an extra pop of flavor!

I hope you enjoy making this special dish as much as I do! It’s been such a joy sharing this recipe with you. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking at home can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few pro tips up your sleeve! Here are some expert suggestions to ensure your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use high-quality chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are naturally juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, making your dish more tender and succulent.

• Marinate for extra flavor: If time allows, marinating the chicken in the orange juice and soy sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes can enhance the flavors significantly. The longer it marinates, the better!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking on your Blackstone griddle, make sure to leave enough space between the pieces of chicken and vegetables. This helps them cook evenly and allows them to develop that delicious caramelization.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar or orange marmalade based on your preference for sweetness. Balancing the flavors will help create a dish that’s just right for you!

• Experiment with veggies: While bell peppers and onions add great flavor, consider adding other vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for added color and nutrition. Get creative!

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Presentation is key when serving a delicious meal like Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing while enhancing its flavor.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color, making your dish pop with visual appeal.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an attractive finish.
• Fresh cilantro: For those who enjoy herbal notes, fresh cilantro can provide a burst of freshness that complements the citrus flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: A classic pairing, fluffy white rice absorbs the tangy sauce perfectly and balances out the flavors.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice offers a light yet satisfying base that soaks up all that delicious orange sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: This nutritious vegetable adds color and crunch, providing a nice contrast to the tender chicken.
• Noodles with sesame oil: Quick-cooking noodles tossed in sesame oil create a delightful side that pairs wonderfully with the citrusy chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with an unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade takeout throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers so they remain flavorful and satisfying.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure that any sauce is also stored in the container with the chicken to keep it moist.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cool entirely before freezing.
• Transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of orange juice if needed for moisture.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Have questions about making this dish? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, you can substitute them with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them to prevent drying out.

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This tasty dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. You can also add steamed vegetables for extra nutrition!

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken spicy?

Certainly! If you like it hot, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to amp up the heat!

How long does it take to make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

The total time for this recipe is about 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Is Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Enjoy all that flavor without the gluten!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken at home as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring a bit of takeout magic into your kitchen while keeping things healthy and homemade. Whether it’s meal prepping for busy days or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your results – I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!