Crave-worthy orange chicken on the blackstone: step-by-step guide to crispy perfection

Orange chicken, a beloved dish combining crispy chicken with a tangy orange sauce, can now be effortlessly prepared on the blazing hot surface of your Blackstone griddle. This guide will walk you through the tantalizing steps of creating this culinary masterpiece, ensuring a sizzling and delectable experience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Additional:

• Vegetable oil, for greasing the griddle
• Orange slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat the Blackstone: Preheat your Blackstone griddle to high heat (around 500-550°F). Grease the surface with vegetable oil.

3. Grill the Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces on the hot griddle and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Make the Orange Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, whisk together all the orange sauce ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange sauce over it and stir to coat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully glazed.

6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with orange slices. Serve hot with rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

• For a crispier chicken, double-coat the pieces by dipping them in the cornstarch mixture twice.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of orange juice or water to thin it out.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce to your liking by adding more honey or soy sauce.
• Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique twist on the classic orange flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha to the orange sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Top the chicken with toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor.

Conclusion: Savor the Sweet and Tangy Delight

With this comprehensive guide, you can now confidently conquer the culinary challenge of making orange chicken on the Blackstone. Whether you’re a seasoned griddle master or a novice cook, this flavorful dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. So, fire up your Blackstone and embark on this orange-infused adventure today!

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: How can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
A: You can make the orange sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What is a good side dish to serve with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.