Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brightens up your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken! This recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also super easy to whip up. Whether you’re having a busy week or hosting family and friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion. The zesty orange sauce paired with tender chicken thighs makes for a delightful meal that everyone will adore.

I love how this recipe combines simple ingredients with a beautiful presentation—a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, the fact that it’s made right on the Blackstone griddle gives it that irresistible charred flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 35 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavors of orange chicken, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making dinner a breeze when you come home tired.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles to suit everyone’s preferences.
• Bright and Flavorful: The fresh orange juice and zest elevate this dish, making every bite delightful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and stress-free! For this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

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 making recipes your own! This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is flexible enough for you to play around with. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat!
• Add different veggies: Feel free to toss in broccoli or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or even some sriracha for an extra kick!
• Make it citrusy: Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or lime for a unique twist.

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them. Chop your vegetables and slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial because uniform sizes help everything cook evenly on your Blackstone. Plus, having everything ready makes cooking much smoother!

Step 2: Heat Up Your Griddle

Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Add in the avocado oil once it’s hot. This high-heat cooking method gives your chicken that lovely sear while keeping it juicy inside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs on the griddle in a single layer. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until they’re golden brown on one side before flipping them over—about 5-7 minutes per side should do. This step locks in moisture and flavor!

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your chicken is cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F), remove it from the griddle and set aside. In the same space, add your chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté these until they’re tender and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes will bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the sautéed vegetables on your griddle after they’ve softened up nicely. Bring it to a simmer; this allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the griddle and stir everything together until coated in that luscious sauce. Let it cook for another few minutes until everything is heated through again—this ensures every bite has that amazing flavor!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over warm white rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for an added pop of color! Enjoy every delicious bite; I know you will!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Cooking this Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is a delightful adventure, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures a juicy and flavorful dish. They stay tender during cooking, making every bite satisfying.

• Let it marinate: If you have time, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the orange juice and soy sauce mix enhances the flavor significantly. The longer it sits, the more deliciously infused with orange goodness it becomes.

• Control the heat: Cooking on medium-high heat allows for that perfect sear while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Too high of a temperature could lead to burnt edges and dry meat.

• Don’t overcrowd the grill: If you’re using a Blackstone griddle, cook in batches if necessary. This prevents steaming and ensures each piece gets that perfect caramelization.

• Adjust sweetness as needed: Taste your sauce before finishing up; feel free to add more orange marmalade or sugar based on your preference for sweetness. This way, you get a flavor profile that suits your palate!

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this vibrant dish! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and beautiful color contrast to your dish.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of these adds both texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange chicken.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro provides an aromatic finish that brightens up the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Cooked white rice: This classic pairing absorbs the tasty sauce, balancing out the flavors perfectly. It’s comforting and filling!

• Cauliflower rice: A lighter alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice is nutritious and complements the dish without overpowering it.

• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds a crunchy texture and nutrients to your meal. Tossed with a bit of soy sauce, they are quick and easy!

• Noodles: Whether you choose lo mein or rice noodles, they provide a wonderful base for soaking up all that delicious orange sauce. Toss them with some sesame oil for extra flavor!

Enjoy crafting your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken experience! Each element brings joy to both the preparation and enjoyment of this delightful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool down before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken that might help you out!

Can I make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken with chicken breasts instead?

Yes! While chicken thighs add moisture, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep them juicy.

How spicy is the Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Start with half a teaspoon for a mild kick, and adjust according to your taste preference.

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

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

Can I use other citrus juices instead of orange juice?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with lemon or lime juice for a different flavor profile while maintaining a citrusy zest!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you’re prepping for the week or serving up something special, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!