Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle is a flavorful dish perfect for busy evenings.
This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle recipe is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights. The sweet and savory glaze coats tender chicken pieces beautifully, creating a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone at the table smile, from the littlest eaters to the grown-ups.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 4-6 | Easy | American |
I still remember the first time I made this Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle. The kids were young, and I was rushing after soccer practice, trying to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table. The sizzle on the griddle was so inviting, and the aroma of the sweet bourbon sauce filled our kitchen with a sense of warmth and anticipation. My son, who was a notoriously picky eater back then, took one bite and his eyes lit up. He declared it the ‘best chicken ever,’ and from that moment on, it became a staple in our rotation. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a memory maker, a testament to how simple ingredients and a little griddle magic can bring a family together for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Why My Family Loves This Recipe
- Unbeatable Flavor: The sweet, tangy, and slightly savory bourbon sauce is a crowd-pleaser that coats every bite of chicken perfectly. It’s a flavor combination that manages to be both familiar and a little adventurous.
- Kid-Approved Taste: This dish often converts even the pickiest eaters. The sweetness of the sauce is just right, making the chicken incredibly appealing to children.
- Quick & Easy Preparation: On busy weeknights, speed is essential, and this recipe delivers. Most of the magic happens on the griddle, minimizing prep and cleanup time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served over fluffy rice, healthy cauliflower rice, or in crisp lettuce cups, it always feels like a special occasion. This adaptability makes it easy to suit everyone’s preferences.
- Comfort Food Bliss: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, glazed chicken dish. It feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a taste of home.
Gather Your Delicious Ingredients
Bringing this incredible Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle to life starts with gathering a few key ingredients. These components come together to create that unforgettable sweet and savory flavor profile that everyone raves about. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything; I’ve included some easy swaps that work just as beautifully. Having everything prepped and ready before you start cooking is part of the simple secret to a smooth griddle experience.
| Quantity | Ingredient | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| 2 1/2–3 lbs | Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces. Chicken breast can be used but may cook faster. |
| 1 teaspoon | Kosher salt | Plus more to taste. Sea salt is a fine substitute. |
| 1/2 teaspoon | Black pepper | Freshly ground pepper adds extra flavor. |
| 2–3 tablespoons | Neutral oil | Such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil for the griddle. |
| 1/2 cup | Bourbon | Provides depth of flavor. Omit or use additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. |
| 1/3 cup | Low-sodium soy sauce | Tamari can be used for a gluten-free option. |
| 1/2 cup | Packed light brown sugar | Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Dark brown sugar works too. |
| 2 tablespoons | Honey | Maple syrup is an excellent substitute for honey. |
| 2 tablespoons | Rice vinegar | Apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch. |
| 1 tablespoon | Ketchup | Adds a touch of tomato flavor and sweetness. |
| 3 cloves | Garlic | Minced finely. Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh is unavailable. |
| 2 teaspoons | Fresh grated ginger | Use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger if fresh is unavailable. Grating ginger is easier with a microplane grater. |
| 1/2–1 teaspoon | Red pepper flakes | Optional, for a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice preference. |
| 1 tablespoon | Cornstarch (for slurry) | For thickening the sauce. |
| 2 tablespoons | Cold water (for slurry) | To mix with cornstarch. |
| 2–3 | Green onions | Thinly sliced, for garnish. Part of the white and green parts add color. |
| Toasted sesame seeds | (Optional) | For garnish. |
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle
Making Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle is wonderfully straightforward, even for beginner cooks. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped before you begin, as things move quickly once the griddle is hot. I always encourage my readers to get their little helpers involved in simple tasks like tossing the chicken or whisking the sauce. It makes for great family bonding time and tastes even better when made with love. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Prepare the Sauce Mixture
Gather all the ingredients for the sauce in one place. In a medium bowl or a metal measuring cup, whisk together the bourbon, low-sodium soy sauce, packed light brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the brown sugar and honey are mostly dissolved. Set this flavorful sauce mixture aside, ready for its starring role.
Preheat Your Griddle
Turn on your griddle and preheat it to medium-high heat. A properly heated griddle is crucial for getting a beautiful sear on the chicken and ensuring it cooks evenly. While the griddle heats up, you can move on to preparing the chicken pieces.
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels; this step helps achieve a better sear. In a clean bowl, toss the chicken pieces with kosher salt, black pepper, and the cornstarch. Gently toss until each piece is lightly and evenly coated. This light dredge will help tenderize the chicken and give it a lovely golden crust on the griddle.
Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Add your neutral oil to the preheated griddle, spreading it evenly across the surface. Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the griddle. Cook undisturbed for about 2 to 3 minutes until you see a beautiful golden-brown crust forming on the bottom. Flip each piece and continue to cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken, and set the cooked chicken aside.
Simmer the Flavorful Sauce
Reduce the heat on one side of your griddle to medium. Pour your prepared bourbon sauce mixture into a heat-safe metal cup or a small, sturdy pan placed directly on the griddle. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes. This brief simmering helps meld the flavors and prepares it for thickening.
Thicken the Sauce with a Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until it forms a smooth, lump-free slurry. Gradually pour this cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce on the griddle, stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir for about 1 to 2 minutes, until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened. It should have a beautiful glaze consistency.
Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Return all of the perfectly seared chicken pieces back onto the hot griddle with the thickened sauce. Pour the glossy sauce over the chicken. Toss everything quickly and thoroughly for about 30 to 60 seconds, ensuring each piece of chicken is beautifully coated in the irresistible bourbon glaze. The heat of the griddle will help the sauce cling to the chicken.
Garnish and Serve Your Masterpiece
Remove the griddle from the heat. Sprinkle the Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle generously with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if you are using them for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Serve this delicious chicken immediately over fluffy steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even in crisp lettuce cups for a fun, lighter option. Pairing it with a simple steamed vegetable side like broccoli makes for a complete meal.
Mom Tips & Hacks for Blackstone Bourbon Chicken
As a mom navigating busy schedules, having a few tricks up my sleeve for beloved recipes like this Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle is a game-changer. I love to get a head start by making the sauce mixture the night before and storing it in the fridge; it saves precious minutes when it’s time to cook. For even faster weeknight meals, you can cut the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, ready to be tossed with the cornstarch and seasonings. If you find yourself with leftovers, they make fantastic lunchbox additions for kids and adults alike! Simply pack them in a bento box with some extra rice. For picky eaters, you can always serve the sauce on the side, allowing them to dip their chicken at their own pace, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal without any fuss.
Easy Variations to Try
While this Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative and tailor it to your family’s tastes and dietary needs. For a healthier spin, you can swap the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breast, just be mindful of the cooking time to prevent drying them out. Another great option is to add a medley of colorful vegetables directly to the griddle alongside the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. Think bell peppers, onions, snap peas, or even broccoli florets for added nutrients and texture. If you’re looking for extra protein, consider adding some shrimp to the mix for a delightful surf-and-turf experience. For those avoiding soy, tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative in the sauce, making it adaptable for various dietary preferences.
What to Serve with Your Bourbon Chicken
This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of comforting side dishes that complete the family meal. For a classic and satisfying choice, serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or for a lighter option, try steaming some cauliflower rice. A side of vibrant steamed broccoli or green beans adds a touch of freshness and color to the plate. If you’re looking for something a little more fun and interactive, consider serving the chicken in crisp lettuce cups, allowing everyone to build their own delicious wraps. And for a sweet finish, a simple bowl of fresh fruit or a no-bake dessert recipe always goes over well with the kids after their savory meal.
Storage & Leftovers from the Griddle
Leftovers of this delicious Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle are a treasure for busy moms! Once cooled, store any remaining chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop over medium-low heat, or you can microwave individual portions until heated through. For even quicker reheating, especially for packing lunches, small containers of the chicken and rice can be gently warmed. You can also freeze portions of cooked chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and easy meal anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the bourbon?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon entirely and use an equal amount of chicken broth or even water for a non-alcoholic version. The sauce will still be delicious, though it will have a slightly different depth of flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. The pieces should also be tender and yield easily when pierced.
My sauce is too thin, what should I do?
If your sauce is too thin, you can make another, smaller cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water) and stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook for another minute until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I make parts of this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, the sauce mixture can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The chicken can also be cut and seasoned (but not coated in cornstarch until just before cooking) the day before.
What are the best ways to serve bourbon chicken?
This bourbon chicken is fantastic served over steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa. It’s also great in lettuce cups for a lighter meal or as a filling for wraps and sliders.
Enjoy Your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken
This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle recipe is truly a wonderful addition to any family’s meal rotation. The way the tender chicken pieces get coated in that luscious, sweet, and savory bourbon glaze is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with happy smiles and full bellies.  Don’t wait to try this fantastic Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle – your family will thank you for it, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!
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Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Description
A quick, family-friendly chicken dish with a sweet and savory maple glaze, cooked on the griddle for tender, flavorful results. Perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Blackstone griddle or pan to medium-high heat.
In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Add vegetable oil to the griddle and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through (5-6 minutes per side).
Notes
Substitute maple syrup with brown sugar for a caramelized flavor.
Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or with grilled vegetables.
Glaze can be doubled and stored for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American