Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

If you ask me, cooking Asian takeout favorites at home is always a good idea. Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. This dish is not only flavorful but also quick to prepare, ensuring you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice, marmalade, and spices creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles to suit your preference.
• Healthier Alternative: Made with boneless chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, this dish is a healthier choice than traditional takeout.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the vibrant flavors and colorful presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to have on hand:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or griddle
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or griddle: Ideal for achieving that perfect sear on the chicken while retaining moisture.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking and beautiful presentation.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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

• 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. Slice the orange thinly while removing any seeds.

Step 2: Heat Your Skillet

Preheat your cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil to coat the bottom evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet. In the same skillet, add chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, orange marmalade, white sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until mixed thoroughly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet along with sautéed vegetables. Pour in your prepared sauce. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated in sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately over cooked white rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor! Enjoy your homemade Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Rice

• White Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious orange sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, pair it with cauliflower rice for a healthy twist.
• Fried Rice: Use leftover rice to make a quick fried rice dish, adding vegetables and soy sauce for extra flavor.

In Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy bite.
• Tortilla Wraps: Use soft tortillas to create delicious wraps filled with chicken and veggies.

As a Noodle Dish

• Noodles: Serve the chicken over cooked noodles, like udon or ramen, tossed in the citrusy sauce.
• Rice Noodles: For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles topped with this juicy chicken.

Garnishing

• Green Onions: Top with sliced green onions for added color and flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch and nutty taste.

How to Perfect Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

To ensure your Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is perfectly cooked every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate in the orange juice and soy sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use High Heat: Cook on high heat to achieve a nice sear on the chicken. This locks in juices and adds depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before serving; adjust sweetness with more orange marmalade or sugar if desired.
• Add Veggies Last: Toss in veggies towards the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli complements the orange flavors while adding nutrients.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas stir-fried quickly brings color and crunch.
3. Egg Fried Rice: Flavor-packed egg fried rice makes an excellent base beneath the chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing balances the richness of the dish.
5. Miso Soup: Light miso soup provides warmth and umami that pairs well with orange chicken.
6. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful crunch alongside your main dish.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and protein, making it a hearty side choice.
8. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic give another layer of flavor while maintaining freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Wrong Chicken Parts: Using chicken breast instead of thighs can lead to dry meat. Stick with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicy result.
• Skipping Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can prevent maximum flavor absorption. Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken in the pan can steam rather than sear it. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Ignoring Temperature: Cooking at too high or low heat can ruin your dish. Aim for medium-high heat to achieve a nice caramelization without burning.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like green onions may make your dish less appealing. Always add a fresh garnish for color and flavor enhancement.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for tracking.

Reheating Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! This recipe can also work well with beef or turkey if you prefer those options.

What can I serve with Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken?

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

How do I adjust the spice level?

To lower the spice level, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers.

Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Absolutely! Fresh-squeezed juice enhances flavor but store-bought is a convenient alternative.

Final Thoughts

Juicy Blackstone Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness and spice levels. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at gatherings—give it a try!