Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a taste of something special. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

There’s something so comforting about the sweet and tangy orange sauce that envelops each bite of chicken. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes this recipe shine, whether you’re serving it over fluffy white rice or tossing it with noodles. Let’s dive into why this recipe is sure to win your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet orange flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit for everyone at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time or even prepare the entire dish to reheat later!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles—whatever suits your cravings!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of orange juice and marmalade creates a delightful sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking enjoyable and stress-free! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken:

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 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
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 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

For Serving

• 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 get creative based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
• Add more veggies: Toss in snap peas or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Make it citrusy: Experiment with lemon or lime juice in place of some of the orange juice for a zesty twist.

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all those wonderful flavors from the sauce. Season them lightly with salt and pepper before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Heat Your Pan

In a large skillet or on your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering but not smoking—this is crucial for getting that perfect sear on your chicken!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want them to brown nicely. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides. This step adds flavor through caramelization!

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add in your chopped bell pepper and onion next. Sauté them alongside the chicken until they soften slightly—about 3 minutes. This not only enhances their sweetness but also builds depth in flavor for our dish.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Once combined well, pour this luscious mixture over your chicken and vegetables in the skillet.

Step 6: Simmer Together

Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This step is essential because it melds all those delightful flavors together while keeping your chicken juicy!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken hot over cooked white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that added freshness! Enjoy every bite as you share this delicious meal with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking at home can feel intimidating, but with a few simple tips, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress!

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken thighs marinate in orange juice and soy sauce for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) will infuse them with amazing flavors and keep them tender.

• Use high heat: Cooking on a high heat allows for that beautiful caramelization on the chicken, giving it an appealing texture and enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re using a large skillet or griddle, make sure not to pack too much chicken in at once. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting the flavors while cooking is key! Feel free to add more orange juice or soy sauce until it reaches your desired sweetness and saltiness.

• Let it rest: Once your chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to retain its juices, making each bite succulent and delicious.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Serving Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can elevate your meal from simple to spectacular! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a pop of color and a fresh crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds brings a nutty flavor and an attractive presentation.
• Fresh cilantro or parsley: Chopped herbs not only enhance visual appeal but also add freshness to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Steamed white rice: A classic pairing, this fluffy side absorbs the rich orange sauce perfectly, creating a comforting meal.
• Cauliflower rice: For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a light base that still allows the vibrant flavors of the chicken to shine through.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A mix of colorful veggies like broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers adds nutrition and crunch, complementing the juicy chicken.
• Noodles: Whether it’s soba or egg noodles tossed in a bit of sesame oil, they make for a satisfying accompaniment that soaks up all those tasty juices.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken will not only taste fantastic but also look irresistible on the table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays or quick dinners. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken.

What makes the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of fresh orange juice, orange marmalade, and soy sauce creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that brings this dish to life!

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

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking.

How can I adjust the spice level of my Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

To reduce spiciness, simply decrease the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. For more heat, feel free to add extra flakes or even a dash of hot sauce!

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos for a delicious gluten-free version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as I am! This recipe not only brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine into your home but also offers a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience—I would love to hear how it turns out!