Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken: The Ultimate Orange Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken
Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a delightful twist on a classic dish? This Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for those looking to bring a burst of flavor to the table. With juicy chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty orange sauce, it’s a meal that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s palate!
A Personal Story Behind My Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed takeout orange chicken from our favorite local restaurant. The sweet, tangy flavor always brought smiles to our faces. As I began my cooking journey, I wanted to recreate that joy at home. Thus, I embarked on crafting my own version of this beloved dish, which led me to discover the magic of cooking on a Blackstone griddle. The result? A recipe that not only pays homage to my childhood but also brings a healthier, homemade touch to our dinner table.
What Makes This Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken Recipe Special?
This Blackstone Orange Chicken recipe stands out because it combines the rich, succulent flavor of chicken thighs with a homemade orange sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. The use of fresh ingredients like bell peppers and onions adds color and nutrition, while cooking on a Blackstone griddle creates a fabulous char and depth of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The Full Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 large bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ small onion, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ medium orange, thinly sliced and seeds removed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Orange Chicken Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, diced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)
Instructions
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting them into bite-sized chunks. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. This helps ensure every piece is flavorful.
- Preheat your griddle to about 375-400°F (190-200°C). This high heat will give your chicken a lovely sear.
- In a small saucepan on the griddle, mix together all the orange chicken sauce ingredients: orange juice, orange marmalade, granulated sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, diced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and heat until the sugar is fully dissolved. Once done, remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
- Place the chicken pieces on the heated griddle. Cook them untouched for about 5-7 minutes, or until they develop a nice golden brown crust. Be patient and avoid moving them around too much!
- Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 150-160°F (65-71°C), gather the pieces together on the griddle and pour about half of the orange sauce over them. Stir briefly, then add the remaining sauce. This ensures that every piece is coated with that delicious sauce.
- Allow the sauce to reduce and thicken to your liking, stirring the chicken occasionally. If needed, adjust the heat by moving the chicken to a hotter area of the griddle or lowering the burners if the sauce is boiling too much. Remember, the sauce will thicken as it cools, so keep an eye on it.
- While the sauce is reducing, add the bell pepper, onion, and orange slices to a clear area on the griddle. Sauté until tender-crisp or cooked to your preference. Mixing in colorful veggies not only enhances the dish visually but adds essential nutrients as well.
- Continue cooking the orange chicken until the chicken reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is important for food safety! Once done, remove the orange chicken from the griddle and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the orange chicken over white rice, cauliflower rice, stir-fry vegetables, or noodles. Enjoy your delicious meal! A sprinkle of sliced green onions on top makes for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken
This Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or try cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. You can also toss in extra vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrition. For those who prefer a heartier meal, serve it over noodles, drizzled with extra sauce for a comforting dish. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh finish!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs offer more flavor and moisture. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more quickly.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before using.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Tasty Blackstone Orange Chicken
Equipment
- Blackstone griddle Perfect for cooking chicken evenly and getting a lovely sear.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 large bell pepper cut into bite-sized pieces
- 0.5 small onion cut into bite-sized pieces
- 0.5 medium orange thinly sliced and seeds removed
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 cloves garlic diced
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for added spice
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and cut into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, combine chicken, avocado oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Preheat your griddle to about 375-400°F (190-200°C).
- In a small saucepan on the griddle, mix together orange juice, orange marmalade, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Heat until sugar dissolves, then set aside.
- Place chicken pieces on the heated griddle. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Avoid moving them too much for a good sear.
- When chicken reaches 150-160°F (65-71°C), pour half the orange sauce over it, stir briefly, then add remaining sauce.
- Allow sauce to reduce and thicken, stirring occasionally. Adjust heat as necessary.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and orange slices to the griddle. Sauté until tender-crisp or to your liking.
- Cook until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from griddle and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Enjoy! Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.