Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of takeout right into your kitchen, then you’ve come to the right place! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not only bursting with flavor but is also super easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe will have everyone smiling and asking for seconds.

What makes this dish so special is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy orange sauce combined with tender chicken thighs. Trust me, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet orange flavor is loved by both kids and adults, making it a hit at any table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily marinate the chicken in advance for a quick cook when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles—whatever suits your mood!
• Bright and Flavorful: The combination of fresh ingredients results in a dish that is as delicious as it is colorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken requires simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful meal!

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.

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is how flexible recipes can be. Feel free to get creative with this one!

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapeños.
• Sweeten your sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more orange marmalade or honey to enhance the flavor.

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until everything is blended. This marinade not only adds flavor but helps tenderize the chicken too!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs to the bowl and ensure they’re well coated in that zesty marinade. Let them sit for about 15 minutes while you chop your vegetables. Marinating infuses those delicious flavors into every bite!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or on your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat, add avocado oil. Once hot, toss in bell peppers and onions. Sauté until they are just tender—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Cooking them first allows their natural sweetness to shine through.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken (along with all remaining marinade) to the skillet with vegetables. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through—about 10-12 minutes depending on thickness. The key here is to cook it thoroughly while keeping it juicy!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is cooked through and fragrant, serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for that extra pop! Enjoy this delightful meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite takeout spot!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking up a delicious batch of Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be a breeze with just a few tips to keep in mind!

• Use chicken thighs: Thighs are more forgiving than breasts when it comes to cooking, ensuring your dish stays juicy and tender.
• Marinate the chicken: If time allows, marinating the chicken in the orange juice and soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes can enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each piece of chicken space when cooking; this helps achieve that beautiful caramelization and sear we all love!
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar and orange marmalade based on your preference for sweetness or tartness.
• Experiment with vegetables: Adding other veggies like snap peas or carrots can not only boost nutrition but also add vibrant colors to your dish.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Serving your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of these adds a fresh crunch and beautiful color contrast.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds offer a nutty flavor that enhances the dish’s overall profile.
• Cilantro leaves: Fresh cilantro can elevate the flavors while adding a pop of green that looks gorgeous on the plate.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: A classic choice, fluffy white rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, balancing out the sweetness of the chicken.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light yet satisfying, providing a great base without overpowering the flavors.
• Lo mein noodles: Soft, chewy noodles tossed with a bit of sesame oil can complement the orange chicken perfectly while adding an extra element of texture.
• Steamed broccoli: This veggie not only adds vibrant color but also brings a crunchy contrast that pairs nicely with the tender chicken.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your delightful culinary creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time without skimping on flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of orange juice if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish!

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

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. They will cook slightly faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain juicy.

What can I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Add some steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

How spicy is the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

The red pepper flakes add a mild kick. If you prefer less heat, feel free to reduce the amount or omit them entirely.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative such as tamari or coconut aminos.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and your heart with warmth. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creation with family and friends. Happy cooking!