This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is packed with sweet and smoky flavors! It’s made with juicy chicken cooked until golden, then coated in a tasty bourbon sauce that everyone will love.
Cooking it on the griddle makes this dish easy and quick, perfect for dinner parties or a weekend treat. I like to serve it with rice or veggies. So good, it’s hard to stop eating! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and tender. You could use chicken breasts if you prefer, but they might be less flavorful and can dry out more easily.
Bourbon Whiskey: Bourbon adds a unique depth of flavor to this dish. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, try using apple juice or a mixture of apple juice and a bit of vinegar for acidity.
Soy Sauce: Look for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, which can help keep the dish from becoming too salty. Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute if you need one!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor. If you’re out, you can use white sugar, but consider adding a bit of molasses for richness.
Vegetables: Use any color bell pepper you prefer, or mix them up for color. Other veggies like zucchini or broccoli also work well if you want to switch things up!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked on the Griddle?
Cooking chicken on the griddle is a great way to achieve that nice sear. Here’s how to make sure it turns out tender and flavorful:
- Preheat your griddle thoroughly before adding the oil—this helps achieve a good sear on the chicken.
- Add the chicken in a single layer to avoid steaming. If your griddle is small, cook in batches.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally to brown all sides. It shouldn’t need too much time – just until it’s cooked through!
Remember to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or a mix), diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For Garnish:
- Green onions, sliced (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours. Total time including marinating can be around 2 hours if you choose to wait, but the active cooking time is quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Stir it well until everything is combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even a few hours for more flavor.
3. Heat the Griddle:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the vegetable oil and spread it across the griddle so the chicken won’t stick.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Carefully place the marinated chicken on the griddle, saving the leftover marinade for later. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through.
5. Add the Vegetables:
When the chicken is nearly done, toss the diced onions and bell peppers onto the griddle. Stir-fry them together for 3-5 more minutes, until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Add the Marinade:
Pour the reserved marinade over the cooked chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely.
7. Finish and Garnish:
Take the griddle off the heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you’d like to add a bit of flair.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Bourbon Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles to soak up that tasty sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer! Just remember that they may cook a little quicker than thighs, so check for doneness after about 4-5 minutes on the griddle to avoid drying them out.
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
No bourbon? No problem! You can substitute with apple juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and a little vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile. Just adjust the sweetness slightly if you go this route!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it for a quick meal.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. Cook it the next day as directed, or you can cook it completely and then store it in the fridge for reheating later. Just ensure it’s fully heated through before serving!
