This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is a sweet and sticky treat that’s perfect for a fun dinner. Made with tender chicken, sweet bourbon sauce, and spicy hints, it’s totally mouthwatering!
Cooking on the griddle makes it even better. I love how the chicken gets crispy edges while soaking up all those yummy flavors. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and who can resist that sauce? 🍗🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs gives tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can also work, but they’re leaner, so they might dry out faster. I’ve found thighs are juicier when cooked.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a rich flavor to the sauce. If you don’t drink alcohol or don’t have bourbon, you can use apple juice or white grape juice mixed with a splash of vanilla extract for a similar depth.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for seasoning. If you need a low-sodium option, go for low-sodium soy sauce. You could also use tamari for a gluten-free alternative or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives the dish a caramel-like sweetness. If you’re out, regular granulated sugar works too, or you can use honey or maple syrup for a natural substitute, adjusting to your desired sweetness.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add color and flavor. Feel free to swap in green peppers or use other veggies like zucchini or snap peas based on what you have on hand!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked on the Griddle?
Cooking chicken on a griddle can be a bit tricky, but with a few techniques, you can make it great! Here’s a simple guide:
- Make sure your griddle is heated well before adding the oil. This helps to sear the chicken and create those yummy browned bits.
- Don’t overcrowd the griddle. Cook in batches if needed so the chicken gets nice and crispy, rather than steaming.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; the chicken should be cooked through (165°F internally) in about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Using high heat near the end, to add the remaining marinade can help thicken the sauce quickly while keeping the chicken juicy.
Remember, patience is key! Let the chicken develop a good sear for great flavor.
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken On The Griddle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Marinade:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
For Garnish:
- 1 scallion, chopped
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. You should also allow at least 30 minutes to let the chicken marinate for great flavor. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour if you include marinade time, but most of that is hands-off while the chicken sits in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir it well until everything is combined to make a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the sliced chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Heat the Griddle:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Drizzle olive oil onto the hot surface to keep the chicken from sticking.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Place the chicken pieces onto the griddle. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the diced red and yellow bell peppers and the diced onion to the griddle. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the veggies become tender.
6. Add the Remaining Marinade:
Pour any leftover marinade from the bowl onto the chicken and vegetables on the griddle. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and create a glaze over everything.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked and delicious, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if you like. Serve hot on its own or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.
Enjoy making and savoring your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken!
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs with Another Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful that breasts may cook faster and can dry out more easily, so check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier.
Can I Use Chicken Marinade Leftover After Cooking?
It’s not advisable to use leftover marinade directly after it’s been in contact with raw chicken. However, you can bring it to a boil for at least 5 minutes to kill any bacteria, and then use it as a sauce to drizzle over the cooked chicken and vegetables.
How Should I Store Leftover Bourbon Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop—just add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Without Bourbon?
Yes, you can replace bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. It will change the flavor slightly, but you’ll still achieve a delicious dish!
