This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is juicy, sweet, and full of flavor! Made right on the griddle, it combines tender chicken with a tasty bourbon sauce that everyone will love.
You’ll enjoy the sizzle of the chicken and the wonderful smell filling your kitchen. I always serve it with rice to soak up the yummy sauce. It’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness and rich flavor. If you only have chicken breasts, you can use those, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
Bourbon: Good quality bourbon adds a unique flavor. If you want to skip alcohol, try apple juice or a mix of water and vanilla extract for a sweet, non-alcoholic option.
Soy Sauce: A key ingredient for umami flavor! For a low-sodium alternative, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also use tamari, which is gluten-free.
Bell Peppers: I like using a mix of colors for visual appeal and taste. If bell peppers aren’t available, you can easily swap in other veggies like zucchini or snap peas.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. For a healthier option, coconut sugar or honey (slightly less) works well too.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken properly on the griddle can be tricky! Here are some tips:
- Start with evenly sliced chicken strips to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Preheat your griddle enough so the oil sizzles when added. This helps seal in juices.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Keep stirring throughout cooking to prevent any sticking and ensure even browning.
With these tips, you’ll serve up perfectly cooked, tender chicken every time!
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 thin strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark or another good quality)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackstone Bourbon Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time getting the ingredients ready and then about 10-12 minutes on the griddle. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle:
Start by preheating your griddle on medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat up for a moment while you prepare your vegetables.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the griddle. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. You want them to be slightly softened but still colorful and crunchy.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the sliced chicken thighs to the griddle. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is browned and cooked all the way through. Make sure it’s not pink inside!
4. Prepare the Bourbon Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). This is your delicious sauce that will bring everything together.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the bourbon sauce over the cooked chicken and vegetables on the griddle. Toss everything gently to coat well in the sauce, ensuring everything is flavorful and happy!
6. Finish Cooking:
Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened a little and everything is heated through. Stir it occasionally to avoid sticking.
7. Garnish Everything:
Once done, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds a nice touch of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken immediately, either on its own or over rice for a satisfying meal. Dive in and enjoy the fantastic flavors you’ve created!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your backyard cookout with this tasty dish!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Thighs with Breast Meat?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. Just remember that they may take a little longer to cook, so keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through but still juicy.
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon on Hand?
No worries! If you don’t have bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice, ginger ale, or a combination of apple cider vinegar and water (about 2:1 ratio) to mimic the sweetness and acidity. Just be aware that the flavor may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, just reheat on the griddle and add the sauce. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy them over rice or in a wrap for a quick meal!
