Name: Savor the Flavor: Blackstone Bourbon Chicken On The Griddle
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken thighs (substitutable with chicken breasts); 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier twist); 1/4 cup bourbon (can swap for apple cider); 1/4 cup brown sugar (replace with honey or maple syrup if desired); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon ginger (minced); 1 cup bell peppers (diced, mix colors or substitute as desired); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)

As I fired up my griddle last weekend, the anticipation of a delicious meal filled the air. That’s when I decided to treat myself and my loved ones to Blackstone Bourbon Chicken. This quick and flavorful griddled delight takes no more than 15 minutes to prep and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Tender pieces of chicken soak in a zesty bourbon marinade, blending smoky notes with a hint of sweetness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds—even thirds! Plus, you can easily swap the bourbon for apple cider if you prefer a family-friendly twist. As you watch the chicken sizzle alongside vibrant vegetables, you’ll realize this is a fuss-free dish that impresses both in taste and presentation. Ready to dive into the details of this delectable recipe?

Why is Blackstone Bourbon Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that fits into any busy schedule.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy bourbon marinade creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes your taste buds, making it an instant favorite.
Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to swap out bourbon for apple cider or adjust veggies for a personal twist—it’s fully customizable!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this dish consistently disappears from the table. Pair it with Mini Baked Chicken tacos for an even heartier experience!
Impressive Presentation: Bright bell peppers and juicy chicken come together for a visually stunning dish that impresses without any extra effort.

Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Ingredients

• Whether you’re a griddle master or a home cook looking to elevate your meals, gather these ingredients for a delightful adventure.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, making them perfect for marination and grilling; you can easily substitute with chicken breasts to suit your preference.

For the Marinade

Bourbon – Infuses the dish with a rich flavor; swap it with apple cider or a combination of chicken broth and vanilla extract for a family-friendly option.
Soy Sauce – Offers umami depth; use low-sodium versions for a healthier twist or tamari for gluten-free needs.
Brown Sugar – Adds a nice balance of sweetness to the marinade; can be replaced with honey or maple syrup if desired.
Garlic – Essential for that fragrant punch; minced garlic works best for even flavor distribution.
Ginger – Provides a warm, zesty kick that complements the dish perfectly; remember to mince it for consistent flavor.

For the Vegetables

Bell Peppers – Introduces vibrant color and crunch to the dish; feel free to mix colors or substitute with snap peas or zucchini for variety.
Vegetable Oil – Essential for sautéing veggies without sticking; opt for a high smoke-point oil for better results.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious Blackstone Bourbon Chicken dish you’ll want to make time and again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blackstone Bourbon Chicken On The Griddle

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup bourbon, ¼ cup brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. Whisk together until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. This marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, so ensure it’s well mixed, then set it aside while you prep the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Cut 1 pound of chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss the chicken until it’s evenly coated, then let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. For more robust flavor, you can refrigerate it for up to a few hours, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before cooking.

Step 3: Preheat Griddle
Heat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot (about 375°F), add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and let it shimmer. Proper preheating is essential for achieving that lovely sear on the chicken, which will enhance the flavor profile of your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Toss in diced bell peppers (about 1 cup mixed colors) and 1 cup of diced onion onto the griddle. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step not only builds flavor but also adds color and nutrition to your dish, making it visually appealing.

Step 5: Cook Chicken
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the griddle, then add the marinated chicken to the other side. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring regularly until the chicken is browned and cooked through—look for an internal temperature of 165°F. The caramelization of the marinade will give the chicken a delightful glossy finish.

Step 6: Combine
Once the chicken is fully cooked, mix the sautéed vegetables back in with the chicken. Stir everything together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. This step beautifully combines the textures and flavors of your Blackstone Bourbon Chicken.

Step 7: Serve
Remove the Blackstone Bourbon Chicken from the griddle, and serve it immediately. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Expert Tips for Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours intensifies the flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step for the best taste!
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid drying out the chicken, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
Choose Fresh Veggies: Using fresh bell peppers and onions not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant color. Sautéing them should keep them crisp for the ideal texture.
Adjust Heat Wisely: If you notice the chicken cooking too quickly while ensuring a nice sear, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning the marinade on the Blackstone griddle.
Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to tweak the marinade’s sweetness or acidity while keeping it balanced. Replace bourbon with apple cider for a family-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Blackstone Bourbon Chicken preparations are a real time-saver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken pieces up to 24 hours ahead—just ensure they’re covered in the marinade and stored in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the griddle, sauté the veggies for a few minutes to bring back their crispness, and then add the marinated chicken. Cook it until golden and fully cooked, and you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free dinner that’s just as flavorful as when you make it fresh!

What to Serve with Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that complement the smoky, savory bursts of this delightful meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, this rice absorbs the flavorful marinade beautifully, allowing every bite to sing with taste.
Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles pair perfectly with the dish, adding a touch of richness and savory depth.
Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a fresh crunch that balances the rich flavors of the chicken, creating an appealing texture contrast.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until caramelized, these sprouts add a nutty flavor that rounds out the meal with delightful satisfaction.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw refreshes the palate, adding brightness and lightness to the smoky sweetness of the bourbon chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and tender corn brings a fun, casual element to the table, perfect for summer gatherings or festive family dinners.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: This cool, refreshing salad cuts through the richness, bringing a burst of freshness with every bite, ideal for warm weather dining.
Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy salsa draped over the chicken adds an exciting twist, bringing tropical flavors right to your table.
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that enhances your dining experience, balancing the savory with a hint of sweetness and a splash of fruit essence.

Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delicious recipe!

Dairy-Free: Omit any dairy-based sides or toppings to keep it light and suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free for a safe swap.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a zesty heat that illuminates this dish.
Veggie Power: Swap bell peppers for another colorful vegetable, like broccoli or snap peas, to increase the nutritional punch and visuals.
Citrus Zing: For a bright twist, mix in a tablespoon of fresh lemon or lime juice in the marinade, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a delightful variation that still soaks up that fantastic marinade.
Sweetness Variation: Experiment with maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar to explore different flavor dimensions in your marinade.
Bourbon-Free: For a family-friendly version, replace the bourbon with apple cider, retaining the flavor while keeping it alcohol-free.

For a delightful meal pairing, consider serving this alongside a warm bowl of Cheesy Broccoli Chicken or a flavor-packed portion of Thai Peanut Chicken!

How to Store and Freeze Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Blackstone Bourbon Chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Marination Tip: If you have leftover marinade, it can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week, ready for your next batch of chicken!

Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Blackstone Bourbon Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts can dry out more easily. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they remain moist and flavorful.

How do I store leftovers from this recipe?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, ensure the container is well-sealed to keep out moisture and odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Blackstone Bourbon Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

What if my marinade isn’t flavorful enough?
If you find that your marinade lacks depth, consider adding a pinch of salt or extra minced garlic and ginger to enhance the flavor profile. You can also let the chicken marinate for longer, ideally a few hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate better.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free tamari. For those avoiding alcohol, substituting bourbon with apple cider or a mixture of chicken broth and vanilla extract retains the flavor without the alcohol. Always check labels for any potential allergens or cross-contamination.