Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dish to brighten up your dinner table, then let me introduce you to my beloved Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! This recipe has quickly found its way into my heart – and my kitchen – because it effortlessly combines sweet and savory flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Plus, the vibrant aroma of orange fills your kitchen, inviting everyone in for a taste. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice and marmalade creates a sweet, tangy sauce that is simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the juicy chicken and colorful veggies; it’s a hit at any dinner!
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in advance for even more flavor, making busy nights a breeze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles to suit everyone’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 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

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 great things about Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to mix things up based on your cravings or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli florets or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Citrus swap: Experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon or lime juice for a unique flavor profile.

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 amazing flavors from the marinade. Season with salt and pepper before moving on!

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

Heat avocado oil in your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Add in the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they are tender and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial because cooking the veggies brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. This sweet-and-sour sauce is what makes your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken so special—every bite will be bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add your sautéed veggies back to the griddle along with the chicken pieces. Pour the sauce over everything and stir well to coat. Let it cook until the chicken is fully cooked through—about 10-12 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once everything is cooked through and beautifully glazed with that vibrant orange sauce, it’s time to serve! Ladle over fluffy white rice or noodles and garnish with freshly sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor.

Enjoy every juicy bite of this delightful dish! Your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken at home is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken marinate in the orange juice, soy sauce, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step infuses the meat with incredible flavor and tenderness.

• Use High Heat: Cooking at a high temperature helps to caramelize the sugars in the sauce, giving your chicken that beautifully glazed finish. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

• Don’t Crowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd it in the skillet. This allows each piece to sear properly, creating a juicy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• Balance the Flavors: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the sweetness or acidity as needed. If it’s too sweet, a splash of rice vinegar can brighten it up without overpowering.

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing your cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite succulent.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also visually appealing. Presenting it well can turn an everyday meal into something special!

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can bring a nutty crunch and enhance the Asian-inspired theme of your dish.
• Fresh Cilantro: A few sprigs of fresh cilantro can add brightness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Cooked White Rice: The classic pairing! Fluffy white rice soaks up all that delicious orange sauce, making every bite satisfying.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light yet filling, providing a neutral base that pairs beautifully with the zesty chicken.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and nutrition while complementing your main dish.
• Noodles: Whether you choose udon or rice noodles, they serve as a hearty side that can also soak up those tasty flavors from your orange chicken.

Now you’re all set to whip up this delightful Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! Enjoy every moment in your kitchen – happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it save time during busy weekdays, but it also keeps well in the fridge and freezer, making it a go-to dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to keep any sauce separate if you prefer your chicken crispy.

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 3 months. For best results, use within 1 month.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• You can also microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What makes Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken so special?

Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken stands out because it’s packed with flavor from fresh ingredients and a zesty orange sauce that elevates ordinary chicken into something extraordinary!

Can I use different vegetables in my Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stir-fry by adding vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. The possibilities are endless!

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

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 20 minutes of cooking time. In just 35 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is ideal for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken spicier?

Certainly! If you love heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers to kick up the spice level according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken brings joy and flavor to your kitchen! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful way to enjoy a homemade version of a classic favorite without any hassle. Enjoy making this dish for yourself and loved ones, and don’t hesitate to share your results. Happy cooking!