This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is a tasty dish that’s sweet, sticky, and full of flavor! Made with tender chicken pieces, bourbon sauce, and served with rice or veggies, it’s a winner!
I love making this on the griddle because it cooks up so nicely and leaves a lovely glaze. It’s like a little party in the pan, and I can’t resist snagging a bite while it cooks! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give juicy and tender results. If you prefer white meat, chicken breast works but may be less moist. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Bourbon: This adds rich flavor to the dish. If you don’t have bourbon, any whiskey can work. For a non-alcoholic option, try apple cider or extra soy sauce with a bit of brown sugar.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce provides great saltiness. If you’re watching your sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is a better choice. Coconut aminos is a gluten-free alternative.
Brown Sugar: This sweetens the dish and balances out the saltiness. If you need a substitute, white sugar can work, or use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar, but adjust the amount since they’re sweeter.
Bell Peppers: These add color and crunch. Use any combination of colors, or try other veggies like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for variety. I often add extra veggies to boost the nutrition!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked on the Griddle?
Cooking chicken on a griddle requires attention to avoid dryness. Here are my tips for achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken:
- Ensure the griddle is preheated to medium-high before adding the chicken.
- Spread the chicken pieces in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly; overcrowding can lead to steaming.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring too much to develop a nice brown on one side.
- Flip and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Using a meat thermometer helps ensure it’s cooked through.
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken On The Griddle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
For Garnish:
- Green onions, chopped
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes to prepare and marinate the chicken, plus another 15-20 minutes to cook everything on the griddle. In total, plan for around 30-35 minutes to make this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. This will be your flavorful marinade that gives the chicken its tasty punch.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for a few hours will enhance the flavor even more!
3. Heat the Griddle:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, pour in the vegetable oil and let it get warm. You’re ready to cook!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Carefully add the marinated chicken to the griddle, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. This is where the magic starts!
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry everything together until the veggies are tender and the chicken is fully cooked, which should take another 5-7 minutes. The colors will look great in your pan!
6. Season and Glaze:
Check your chicken and veggies for flavor. Season with extra salt and pepper to taste if needed. If you want an extra touch, pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and veggies and let it cook for another minute to thicken a bit.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious chicken dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken with rice or noodles on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Substitute the Bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple juice, chicken broth, or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water (half and half). While the flavor will differ slightly, these alternatives will still lend a tasty sweetness to the dish.
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be mindful that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so watch them closely and check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier than you would for thighs.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated thoroughly. Add a splash of water or broth while reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to the bell peppers and onion for even cooking, and adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure all veggies are tender.
