Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a way to brighten up your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that takes your taste buds on a delightful journey. The vibrant flavors of orange combined with tender chicken thighs create a dish that feels special yet is simple enough for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a standout favorite in our home.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together without compromising on flavor. You can whip it up in just over half an hour, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: In just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready.
• Family-friendly appeal: With its sweet citrus flavor and colorful veggies, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile serving options: Whether paired with rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles, this meal adapts beautifully to your preferences.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even richer flavor when you’re ready to cook!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will make your cooking experience enjoyable. They are easy to find at any grocery store and come together beautifully to create that perfect orange chicken flavor.

For the Chicken

• 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

To Serve

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try using boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar or use honey as a natural alternative.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit more heat in their meals!

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors from the sauce. Don’t forget to season them with salt and pepper!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In your Blackstone griddle or skillet over medium-high heat, add avocado oil. Once it’s hot and shimmering, toss in the bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they soften slightly—this brings out their natural sweetness and adds great texture.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add your seasoned chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until they’re browned and cooked through. This step locks in moisture while giving a lovely sear that enhances flavor.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over your cooked chicken and vegetables. Let it simmer gently to allow all those flavors to marry beautifully.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once everything is coated in that luscious sauce and heated through, serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh green onions for that extra pop of color and flavor!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish—it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken will surely impress!

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the orange juice and soy sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and high-quality orange juice make a noticeable difference in flavor. They contribute to a vibrant and aromatic dish.
• Preheat your Blackstone grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before adding the chicken creates a beautiful sear that locks in moisture and adds a delicious char.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary helps maintain high heat, allowing for even cooking and browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than grilling.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference for sweetness, feel free to modify the amount of sugar or orange marmalade. This flexibility ensures you get the perfect balance for your palate.

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Serving your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a feast for both the eyes and taste buds!

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that brightens up your dish.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds introduces a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Fresh cilantro or parsley: Chopped herbs provide an aromatic touch that brings freshness to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: A classic companion, fluffy white rice absorbs the tangy sauce beautifully, making each bite comforting.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as a healthy base that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Vegetable stir-fry: A mix of colorful vegetables quickly stir-fried can add crunch and nutrition while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of your meal.
• Noodles: Whether you choose soba or rice noodles, they serve as an excellent vehicle for enjoying all of that delicious orange sauce. Toss them with a bit of soy sauce for extra flavor.

Enjoy creating this delicious dish! It’s not just about cooking; it’s about bringing loved ones together around a table filled with joy and flavor. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to let the chicken cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Add a splash of water or orange juice if it seems dry during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken with chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so check for doneness earlier.

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions for an added touch!

Is there a substitute for orange marmalade?

Absolutely! You can use apricot jam or another fruit preserve if you prefer. It will give a similar sweetness and consistency.

How spicy is this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less red pepper flakes. Feel free to start with a pinch if you’re sensitive to heat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just delicious; it’s also versatile and perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep. Dive into this recipe with joy, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!