Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Asian takeout right into your kitchen, then you’ve come to the right place! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe is a beloved favorite at my house. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious, and it impresses at family gatherings too. With its zesty orange flavor and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

The best part? You can whip it up in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for those nights when time is tight but you still want to serve something homemade and heartwarming.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, dinner will be on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and tangy flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone will love it!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time or make extra to enjoy leftovers for lunch.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair this dish with white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a meal that suits everyone’s tastes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of orange juice, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible sauce that you’ll want to drizzle over everything!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be easy and fun! You’ll find that these ingredients are simple, wholesome, and perfect for creating that mouthwatering 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

• Serve with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
• Garnish with sliced green onions.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli florets or snap peas for added color and crunch.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of sugar or marmalade.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes if you like more heat in your meals!

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 makes them easy to eat. Once they’re cut up, season them with salt and pepper. This step enhances their natural flavor before they’re coated in that delicious sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or on your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat, add avocado oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they’re tender—around 5 minutes—bringing out their natural sweetness while adding color to your dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. This sauce is where all the magic happens! It’s tangy, sweet, and has just enough kick from the ginger.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to your skillet with sautéed veggies. Pour that lovely sauce over everything! Stir well to ensure every piece is coated. Cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through—about 10-15 minutes depending on your heat level.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Once everything is cooked perfectly together and you can smell those amazing aromas wafting through your kitchen (trust me—you’ll know!), it’s time to serve! Plate it over cooked white rice or cauliflower rice if you prefer a lighter option. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that fresh touch!

There you have it—a delightful recipe for Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking this delicious dish is a breeze, especially when you follow these tried-and-true tips!

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will ensure your dish is tender and juicy. Thighs have more fat than chicken breasts, which helps keep them moist during cooking.

• Preheat Your Griddle: Make sure to preheat your Blackstone griddle properly before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that beautiful sear and locks in the juices, giving you that perfect caramelized exterior.

• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow your orange sauce to simmer and thicken slightly before tossing it with the chicken. This enhances the flavors and ensures every piece of chicken is coated in that deliciously sweet and tangy goodness.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or skip them entirely. Tailoring the spice level allows everyone to enjoy this dish without overwhelming their taste buds.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an even juicier bite.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Serving Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be as fun as making it! With a few simple touches, you can create a meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that complements the orange chicken beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds provides a nutty flavor and a pleasing texture contrast.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a light herbal note that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Cooked White Rice: Fluffy white rice is a classic choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly—an absolute must for any Asian-inspired meal.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice offers a low-carb alternative while still providing that satisfying base for your orange chicken.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers not only adds nutrition but also makes your plate pop with color.
• Noodles: Serve it over cooked noodles for a hearty twist—think lo mein or rice noodles tossed with a splash of soy sauce for added flavor.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish and impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Serve with fresh rice or noodles for a quick meal!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

How can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken spicier?

To add some heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or incorporate sliced fresh chili peppers when cooking. Adjust to your spice preference!

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

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for added flavor!

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

The total time is about 35 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a flavorful dish; it’s also easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep option for busy days ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!