Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and is sure to impress your family, look no further than this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, offering the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s one of those meals that can bring everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a joyful family gathering. Plus, the vibrant colors and aromas will make your kitchen feel like a cozy restaurant!

What makes this dish truly special is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal that feels indulgent without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can get dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet orange flavor appeals to kids and adults alike, making it a hit for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day for an effortless cooking experience later.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice to suit any dietary preference.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice and marmalade creates a delightful sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! Here you’ll find simple, wholesome items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. This recipe is all about making delicious food accessible!

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 Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
• Try different citrus: Experiment with lemon or lime juice for a refreshing change in flavor.

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 allows them to soak up all that delicious sauce later on. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat avocado oil in your Blackstone grill (or skillet) over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell pepper and onion first; sauté them until they soften and become fragrant—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step not only adds great flavor but also brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Next, add your seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Sauté until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked through—about 7-10 minutes. It’s important to ensure they are cooked thoroughly for safety and texture.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this vibrant mixture over your chicken and veggies once they’re cooked. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer Until Thickened

Allow everything to simmer together for about 5-7 minutes. This helps meld all those wonderful flavors together while thickening up your sauce just right!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken hot over white rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly sliced green onions for an added burst of flavor and color!

Now you’ve got yourself a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to delight! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking the perfect Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is all about technique and timing, but don’t worry, I’ve got some handy tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures that your dish remains juicy and tender. Thighs have more fat than breasts, which helps keep them moist during cooking.

• Preheat your Blackstone grill: Make sure your grill is nice and hot before adding the chicken. This helps to create a beautiful sear on the outside while locking in the juices for a perfectly cooked dish.

• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Avoid placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill at once. Giving each piece enough space allows for even cooking and prevents steaming, which can lead to dry chicken.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest can make a world of difference in flavor. It enhances the brightness of your sauce and gives it that authentic takeout taste.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving will help retain its juices, making every bite succulent and flavorful.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Now that you’ve got a delicious meal ready, let’s talk about how to present it beautifully! A well-served dish can elevate your dining experience, making it feel like a special occasion.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: Adding fresh green onions not only brings a pop of color but also adds a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange sauce.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: The classic choice! Fluffy white rice absorbs all those tasty flavors from the orange sauce, making each bite delectable.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great alternative. It’s light yet filling, providing an excellent base for this flavorful dish.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A medley of colorful stir-fried veggies adds nutrition and texture. Veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas work wonderfully together!
• Noodles: Whether you choose udon or rice noodles, they provide great mouthfeel and soak up all that delicious orange goodness beautifully!

Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken with these garnishes and sides for an impressive meal that’s not just delightful to eat but also looks stunning on your table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, store it, and enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Remember to label your containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of orange juice for moisture if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe to help you along the way!

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

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may cook faster than thighs.

How do I make the sauce thicker for my Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir until the sauce thickens.

Can I add vegetables to my Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! Its delightful flavors and vibrant colors make it a special dish that you can share with family or savor all on your own. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your variations. Happy cooking!