If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a hint of smoky bourbon flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe. It’s a sensational way to cook chicken breasts on your Blackstone griddle, allowing the bourbon-infused marinade to caramelize and create an irresistibly flavorful crust. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just want an easy, impressive meal, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken that’s bursting with bold, comforting flavors you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting a dish that’s rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced. From the punchy garlic and fresh ginger to the sweet brown sugar and savory soy sauce, each component enhances the texture, depth, and color of your bourbon chicken.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for quick cooking and soaking up flavors.
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey: Adds a smooth, smoky sweetness that makes this recipe truly special.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings caramelized sweetness that balances the soy and vinegar.
- 1/3 cup soy sauce: Provides rich umami and saltiness to elevate the chicken’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a mild tang to brighten the marinade and cut through the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the marinade savory and helps maintain juiciness during cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses pungent, aromatic depth into every bite.
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Offers a fresh, zesty kick that complements the bourbon perfectly.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and texture after caramelizing on the griddle.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Essential for thickening the marinade into a glossy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps activate the cornstarch for a silky finish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the chicken from sticking and encourages even browning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that brings everything together beautifully.
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, crunchy, and visually appealing final touch.
How to Make Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger in a large bowl. The goal is to dissolve the brown sugar fully so that every sip of marinade is packed with flavor and ready to coat your chicken perfectly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the freshly whisked marinade over them. This step is key; you want the chicken to soak up as much of that dynamic blend of sweet and tangy flavors as possible. Seal and refrigerate for at least an hour — but if you have time, let it sit overnight for max flavor penetration!
Step 3: Heat Your Blackstone Griddle
Preheat the Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. When hot, add the vegetable oil and spread it evenly across the surface. This will ensure a beautiful sear on your chicken and help prevent sticking, giving you that signature crisp that’s so addictive.
Step 4: Season and Cook the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, reserving the liquid for later. Season both sides with salt and pepper for extra flavor. Then place the chicken on the hot griddle and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). This direct heat will caramelize the surface beautifully while locking in juicy tenderness.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
While the chicken cooks, strain your reserved marinade to remove any solids. Pour it into a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Mix the cornstarch and water together to form a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the boiling marinade. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a glossy, luscious syrup that perfectly coats the chicken.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once your chicken is cooked, brush it generously with the thickened bourbon sauce and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This resting period helps seal in juiciness and ensures the sauce clings deliciously to every bite. Slice and drizzle extra sauce on top, then sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for that extra pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and toasted sesame seeds are simple but transformative garnishes. They add a fresh crunch and a nutty aroma that contrasts beautifully with the sweet, savory chicken, making every bite even more delightful and Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
This bourbon chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up all that glossy sauce. If you prefer veggies, consider grilled asparagus or sautéed snap peas for a vibrant, crisp counterpoint that keeps the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, serve this Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe atop a bed of cauliflower rice or wrapped in warm tortillas for a fusion-style chicken taco. You might also drizzle some extra sauce over roasted sweet potatoes or drizzle a little over a fresh mixed greens salad for a quick and tasty supper bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce separate if possible to prevent the chicken from getting soggy, and reheat just until warm for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked bourbon chicken for up to 2 months. Freeze chicken slices and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain saucy goodness.
Reheating
When reheating, warm your chicken over medium heat in a skillet or on the griddle to revive that lovely seared texture. Pour in the sauce last and heat through until glossy and bubbling for an almost freshly made experience that will please your taste buds.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and can add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs can be thicker and take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
Is bourbon necessary for the marinade?
The bourbon adds a wonderful depth and sweetness, but if you prefer, you can substitute apple juice or a non-alcoholic bourbon-flavored syrup to keep that rich flavor without the alcohol.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While an hour is sufficient, marinating overnight is ideal for the richest flavor infusion. Avoid going beyond 24 hours as the acid in the marinade might start to break down the chicken too much and alter the texture.
What if I don’t have a Blackstone griddle?
No worries! You can cook this recipe on a regular grill, cast-iron skillet, or even a non-stick pan. Just keep the heat medium-high and be sure to sear the chicken well on both sides.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check any other ingredients for gluten. This way, you still get all the fantastic flavors without any gluten concerns.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about cooking a meal on a Blackstone griddle, and this Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe brings together simple ingredients to create something unforgettable. From marinating to the final saucy drizzle, every step is a joy that leads to a satisfying, delicious dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it — trust me, this one’s going to be a favourite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Griddle Blackstone Bourbon Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated chicken breasts cooked to perfection on a Blackstone griddle. The chicken is soaked in a flavorful bourbon-based marinade and served with a glossy, thickened sauce. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 1 1/2 pounds
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 medium onion, chopped
Sauce and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. Once hot, add vegetable oil and spread it evenly across the surface to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for the sauce later. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the hot griddle. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and registers an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, strain the reserved marinade to remove solids, then pour the liquid into a saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water. Slowly whisk this mixture into the boiling marinade. Stir frequently until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
- Finish the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, brush it with the thickened sauce. Let it rest for a few minutes to ensure juiciness.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and drizzle additional sauce on top. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely.
- Adjust sugar in the marinade based on desired sweetness.
- Optional garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds add both flavor and presentation appeal.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or grilled vegetables.
