Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings the flavors of takeout right into your kitchen, then you’ve found it with this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken. This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The bright citrus notes combined with tender chicken make this dish both vibrant and comforting. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

One of the best parts about this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is how well it suits any occasion. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this scrumptious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Family Favorite: The sweet and tangy flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Sides: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a customized meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and store it in the fridge for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice and ginger gives this dish a refreshing kick that you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking with simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken special. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this tasty dish:

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 cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations to make this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken your own.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts instead if that’s what you have on hand.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies and texture.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes for those who enjoy heat!
• Try different citrus: Substitute lemon or lime juice for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients together. This makes cooking smoother and helps ensure that nothing is missed along the way. Chop your bell pepper and onion into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Heat Your Blackstone Griddle

Preheat your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. A hot griddle will give your chicken that beautiful sear and lock in those juicy flavors! Add avocado oil once it’s hot enough.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs on the griddle and season them with salt and pepper. Cooking them until they’re golden brown will bring out their natural sweetness. Ensure they are cooked through by using a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Once your chicken is cooked, add in your chopped bell pepper and onion. Sautéing them until tender brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the orange sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over your chicken and veggies on the griddle. Allowing it to simmer will help all those wonderful flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

After everything is well-coated in that delicious sauce, it’s time to plate up! Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over rice or noodles and garnish with fresh sliced green onions for that final touch of brightness.

Enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering dish!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking this delicious dish at home is a rewarding experience that will impress your family and friends!

• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) helps infuse it with flavor, making every bite even juicier.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve that perfect sear and caramelization, giving your chicken a delightful texture while locking in moisture.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking, give your chicken enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning, which affects both flavor and texture.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or even some diced fresh chili peppers. This allows you to personalize the dish to your taste.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring that every piece remains succulent.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Presenting your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast! Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds brings a nutty crunch that enhances both presentation and taste.
• Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds freshness and brightness, balancing the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Cooked White Rice: The classic pairing! Fluffy white rice absorbs all those delicious orange sauce flavors perfectly.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice offers a light and healthy alternative that still satisfies.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds nutrition but also complements the vibrant colors of your dish.
• Noodles: Tossed in soy sauce or sesame oil, noodles provide a hearty accompaniment that soaks up all those yummy juices.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal with your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! Enjoy every juicy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not only a delightful dish to enjoy fresh, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for busy weekdays or just want to have a delicious dinner ready in advance, this recipe has got you covered.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken in short intervals, stirring often.
• Add a splash of orange juice if it seems too dry during reheating.

FAQs

Got questions about making the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

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

Yes! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep them tender.

How can I make the sauce spicier in the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

To amp up the heat in your dish, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced fresh chili peppers while cooking. You can adjust according to your spice preference!

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use bottled orange juice for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bottled orange juice works well if you don’t have fresh oranges on hand. Just choose one without added sugars for the best flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and flavor into your kitchen! The Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not just easy to make; it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite ingredients!