Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you ask me, cooking Asian takeout favorites at home is always a good idea. Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is a vibrant dish bursting with flavors that bring a taste of the restaurant right to your kitchen. Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe stands out with its succulent chicken and zesty orange sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice, ginger, and garlic creates a bright and delicious sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to fit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet, tangy flavor of this chicken dish, making it a hit for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken requires a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for cooking chicken evenly and allows for easy stirring of ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep work quick and efficient.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping and mixing ingredients without damaging the chicken or vegetables.

Ingredients

To make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Make Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the bell pepper and onion into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice half an orange. Mince the garlic and ginger if not using pre-minced versions.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add avocado oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with sautéed vegetables. Pour in the sauce mixture over everything. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken over cooked white rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness! Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides. Serving it in different ways can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Over Rice

• Cooked White Rice: The classic choice that absorbs the delicious orange sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that provides a light base for the chicken.
• Noodles: Toss with the chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
• Sautéed Green Beans: A quick and healthy side that complements the sweetness of the orange chicken.

Garnished Options

• Sliced Green Onions: Sprinkling these on top adds a fresh flavor and beautiful presentation.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds enhances both taste and texture.

How to Perfect Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Creating the perfect Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken involves a few key techniques to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Chicken: Select fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate in the orange juice mixture for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor penetration.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your Blackstone is hot before cooking to get a nice sear on the chicken.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook just until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers towards the end of cooking to keep them crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Pairing Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice adds a lovely aroma and goes well with the sauce.
2. Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy with garlic offers a nutritious and flavorful side.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil complements the dish nicely.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas brings color and crunch to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: Toss cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing for a healthy option.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy orange flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final taste. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Skipping the marination step: Marinating the chicken in orange juice and soy sauce adds depth. Always allow time for this crucial step.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Neglecting to taste as you go: Seasoning is vital for flavor. Taste your sauce during cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Using low-quality orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances flavor significantly. Opt for fresh juice over bottled versions whenever possible.
• Not using enough oil: A good amount of oil helps achieve that beautiful sear on the chicken. Don’t skimp; use enough for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs with chicken breasts or turkey if preferred.

What if I don’t have orange marmalade?

You can use any fruit preserve or jam that complements the flavors, such as apricot or peach preserves.

How spicy is Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

The level of spice depends on the amount of red pepper flakes you add. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to cooking and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.

What should I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs well with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not only delicious but versatile enough to customize according to your preferences. Whether you want it spicier or with more vegetables, feel free to experiment. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!