This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is a tasty dish packed with tender chicken, a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce, and grilled to perfection. Cooking it on the griddle adds a nice smoky flavor!
Whenever I make this dish, my family gathers around, and it’s gone in minutes! Pair it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a quick meal that feels special without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are great for this dish because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer breast meat, you can use that too, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out easily.
Bourbon: This adds a rich flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider or a mix of chicken broth with a splash of vanilla extract. It won’t be the same, but it can still be tasty!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a great umami flavor, but low-sodium soy sauce is a better choice if you’re watching your salt intake. You can also try tamari for a gluten-free option.
Bell Peppers: The mix of colors looks appealing and tastes great! If you don’t have all colors at hand, just use whatever you have. Zucchini or snap peas are also good alternatives.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and balances the savory flavors. If you’re out, use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, though the flavor might change slightly.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to getting it flavorful and tender. Don’t skip this step! If you have the time, let it sit for a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it picks up.
- Mix the marinade ingredients well before adding the chicken.
- Make sure each piece of chicken is coated in the marinade— this helps flavor the meat evenly.
- Avoid overcooking. Chicken is done when it’s no longer pink inside (about 165°F). Use a meat thermometer if you have one.
By following these tips, you can achieve that delicious, tender chicken in your Bourbon Chicken dish. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Cooking on the griddle will take around 15 minutes. Altogether, set aside about an hour to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger to create a flavorful marinade. Stir well until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure the chicken is coated well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for a few hours for more intense flavor.
3. Preheat the Griddle:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Give it a moment to heat up.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Once the oil is hot, toss the diced onion and bell peppers onto the griddle. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften and become fragrant.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the griddle. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the other side. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s fully cooked and caramelized on the outside.
6. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Mix the sautéed vegetables back in with the cooked chicken on the griddle. Stir well and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Season and Serve:
Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a nice finish.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your delicious Blackstone Bourbon Chicken over rice or noodles if you like. Dig in and enjoy a flavorful meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook a bit faster. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or non-alcoholic bourbon, both of which will provide a tangy flavor. For a sweeter touch, try using a splash of apple juice mixed with some vanilla extract.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Blackstone Bourbon Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Add More Veggies to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Just sauté them for a minute or two longer to ensure they are tender but still crisp, and mix them in with the chicken towards the end of cooking.
