The aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air can truly transform a weeknight into something special. Today, I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken, a dish that perfectly marries smoky bourbon with the sweetness of brown sugar. This is not just another chicken recipe; it’s a quick dinner solution perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something homemade and satisfying. The best part? It’s beginner-friendly, meaning anyone can whip it up in no time. Plus, you won't have to worry about a complicated cleanup afterward—just fire up the griddle and enjoy the simple pleasure of a delicious meal. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with this flavorful delight? Let's dive in!

Why is Bourbon Chicken so Irresistible?

Juicy and Tender: The marinade enhances the chicken's juiciness, ensuring every bite is succulent and full of flavor.
Quick Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, you can have this delightful dish ready in just minutes!
Flavor Explosion: The lovely combo of smoky bourbon, sweet brown sugar, and zesty ginger provides a tantalizing experience that outshines fast food.
Beginner-Friendly: Even novice cooks will feel like pros, successfully mastering this delicious recipe without the fuss.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair your bourbon chicken with fluffy rice, steamed vegetables, or even a fresh garden salad—perfect for any occasion! Whether you're looking for a lively weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe is a surefire hit. If you're up for some twisty variations, don't forget to check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Chicken for some extra flavor inspiration!

Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Ingredients

• For the Marinade

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Use fresh for the best flavor and tenderness as it soaks up the marinade beautifully.
Bourbon Whiskey – Adds a unique smoky depth; feel free to swap it with rye or rum for a different twist.
Brown Sugar – Provides that sweet, sticky glaze; pack it down for maximum sweetness.
Soy Sauce – Essential for umami flavor, balancing out the sweetness of the sugar perfectly.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Introduces a bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness and tenderizes the chicken.
Chicken Broth – Adds savory richness to your marinade, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Garlic (minced) – Contributes aromatic richness and depth to the marinade.
Fresh Ginger (grated) – Provides a warm, peppery note that complements the sweetness of the dish.
Onion (chopped) – Infuses additional layers of flavor into the marinade, making it more aromatic.

• For Cooking

Cornstarch – For thickening your sauce to a glossy finish, ensure you mix it with water for a slurry before adding.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the griddle nonstick and ensures that perfect sear; don't skimp on this!
Salt and Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken; adjust to taste.

• For Garnishing

Green Onions – Adds a pop of color and fresh crunch to the finished dish; chop and sprinkle on top.
Sesame Seeds – Offers a delightful crunch; optional but highly recommended for added texture.

Now you're all set to create a scrumptious Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken that's bound to impress! Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of bourbon, ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup chicken broth, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. Combine until smooth and well blended, creating a flavorful marinade that will make your Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken juicy and tender.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them in a resealable bag or dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Griddle
About 10 minutes before you're ready to cook, preheat your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to coat the griddle surface well, ensuring a nonstick cooking environment for your chicken. Aim for a temperature of around 400°F, perfect for achieving that golden-brown sear.

Step 4: Season the Chicken
Once marinating is complete, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper on both sides, setting it up for great flavor on the griddle as you cook the Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the preheated griddle, cooking for 5-6 minutes on each side. Flip them when they're golden brown and have developed a slight char. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) so your chicken is cooked through and remains juicy.

Step 6: Strain and Heat Marinade
While the chicken cooks, take the reserved marinade and pour it through a strainer into a saucepan to remove solids. Bring the strained marinade to a gentle boil over medium heat. This process enhances the flavors and ensures it's safe for glazing your Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken later.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Whisk this mixture into the boiling marinade, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and turns glossy, which should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a luscious glaze for your chicken.

Step 8: Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, brush the thickened sauce generously over each piece. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, letting the marinade seep in and enhance the flavor of your Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken before slicing.

Step 9: Slice and Serve
Slice the glazed chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining sauce from the saucepan. For a delightful presentation, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve your delicious Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken alongside rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Expert Tips for Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will truly enhance the flavors, making your Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken even more delicious.

• Oil Your Griddle: Ensure the griddle is well-oiled before cooking to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for perfect searing and easy cleanup.

• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken every time.

• Save the Marinade: After straining, cooking the marinade eliminates any bacteria, making it safe to use as a glaze for extra flavor.

• Adjust Flavors: Feel free to tweak the amounts of brown sugar or bourbon to match your taste preferences, enhancing the sweetness or smokiness as desired.

How to Store and Freeze Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the glazed chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the chicken seems dry. Alternatively, use the microwave until heated through. Enjoy your Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken again!

What to Serve with Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Create a delightful, well-rounded meal by complementing your chicken with these wonderful side dishes and drinks.

Fluffy White Rice: The perfect canvas for soaking up the sticky bourbon glaze, white rice adds a comforting touch to the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Its bright-green crunch offers a crisp contrast to the saucy chicken, making your plate vibrant and healthy.
Asian-Style Fried Rice: Packed with veggies and egg, this savory side harmonizes with the bourbon's sweetness for a satisfying experience. For a hint of nuttiness, sprinkle sesame oil over your fried rice.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and caramelization pairs beautifully with the sweet, smoky notes of bourbon chicken. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness—perfectly scrumptious!
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light soy-ginger sauce, these noodles can provide a savory complement while adding a fun texture to your meal.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the bourbon chicken without overpowering it.
Decadent Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of rich chocolate cake; the bittersweet chocolate complements the dish’s caramel notes.

Make Ahead Options

These Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the ingredients and let the chicken soak in the flavors overnight for maximum tenderness. The marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator, making it ready to cook on a busy night. When it's time to serve, just preheat your griddle and grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, providing you with a delicious dinner with minimal effort after a long day!

Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe with delightful flavors and swaps that suit your taste buds!

Rye Whiskey: Swap bourbon for rye for a spicier, bolder flavor that elevates the dish.
Rum: Prefer a sweeter note? Use rum instead of bourbon for a tropical twist that complements the chicken wonderfully.
Spicy Addition: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the marinade for an exciting kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Chicken Thighs: Choose juicy chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and extra moistness—an irresistible alternative that’s hard to resist!
Pineapple Juice: Replace some of the chicken broth with pineapple juice for a sweet, tangy twist that brightens each bite.
Vegetable Substitution: For a veggie-packed version, add bell peppers and snap peas to the griddle for added crunch and nutrients alongside the chicken.
Coconut Aminos: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option that offers a slightly sweeter taste without losing umami.

With exciting variations like the ones above, your Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken can be a whole new experience every time! If you love hearty flavors, consider checking out this tempting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli or delightfully zesty Pesto Chicken Lettuce for more culinary adventures!

Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Bourbon Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They absorb the marinade beautifully and stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer a richer flavor and a juicier texture, chicken thighs work well too!

How long can I store leftovers of Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing it to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooled glazed chicken in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on a skillet or in the microwave!

What should I do if my sauce is too thin or not thickening?
No worries! If your sauce isn't thickening, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until it reaches the desired thickness. Stir constantly to avoid lumps!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To make this Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This minor switch maintains the flavor while being suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Is Bourbon Chicken safe for pets?
It's best to avoid sharing bourbon chicken with your furry friends. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to pets, so it's wise to keep their meals separate and stick to pet-safe options.