This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is a quick and tasty dish cooked right on the griddle! It’s full of flavor with sweet bourbon, soy sauce, and tender chicken bites.
I love how easy this recipe is! Just toss everything on the griddle, and in no time, it’s ready to serve. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a fun outdoor cookout! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts will work, but they can dry out more easily. Thighs really enhance the flavor of this dish.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds depth to the marinade. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, use apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. For something different but still rich, consider using whiskey or a flavored spirit like rum.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient gives a savory umami flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute it with tamari. Low-sodium soy sauce is an excellent choice if you’re watching your salt intake.
Brown Sugar: I opt for dark brown sugar to add a richer flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Honey or maple syrup works too, though they might alter the taste slightly.
Bell Peppers & Onion: Colorful bell peppers give a wonderful crunch and sweetness. Feel free to substitute with other veggies like zucchini or snap peas if you prefer. It’s all about what you like and what’s in your fridge!
How Do I Get My Chicken to Cook Perfectly on the Griddle?
Cooking chicken on a griddle can sometimes be tricky, but with these simple steps, you’ll get it just right!
- Start by preheating your griddle well so that the oil heats up quickly. This ensures a good sear on the chicken.
- Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on the griddle to avoid steaming. This helps it brown nicely.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes without moving the chicken too much. Letting it sit helps develop that golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Following these tips will help you enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time!
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken On The Griddle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for griddle)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate. Cooking on the griddle will take another 15-20 minutes. So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour to enjoy delicious Blackstone Bourbon Chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and ketchup. Stir everything nicely until it’s well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the marinade. Make sure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour if you have time. This will help the chicken absorb all those yummy flavors!
3. Preheat the Griddle:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable oil and let it heat up for a minute.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Carefully add the marinated chicken onto the griddle in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should turn a lovely golden brown and be cooked through. You can check if it’s done by making sure there’s no pink left inside!
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add some color! Toss the diced onions and bell peppers onto the griddle with the chicken. Cook everything together for about 4-5 minutes, stirring until the vegetables soften and everything is warmed through.
6. Season and Garnish:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Then sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is ready! Serve hot and enjoy the rich, delicious flavors with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs! Just be aware that breasts may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around 5-6 minutes. To keep them juicy, avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
No worries! You can substitute bourbon with apple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water. While the flavor won’t be exactly the same, it will still add a nice sweetness and depth to the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before, then cook it on the griddle when you’re ready. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
