Blackstone Bourbon Chicken is a tasty dish that’s easy to make on your griddle! Juicy chicken pieces soak in a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce, making every bite a little party for your taste buds!
You’ll love how quickly this chicken cooks up—perfect for busy weeknights! I enjoy serving it over rice to soak up the sauce. It always brings smiles to the table! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are perfect for this dish due to their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breast, but it may cook faster, so keep an eye on it!
Bourbon: This adds a unique depth to the sauce. If you don’t have bourbon, you can use any other whiskey or even apple juice for a non-alcoholic option, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Soy Sauce: A key flavor component, it provides saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead. If you need a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce.
Cornstarch: This is optional but really helps to thicken the sauce. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour or arrowroot powder, but it might not be as effective as cornstarch.
How Do I Get The Chicken Just Right Without Overcooking It?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with the right method, you’ll get it perfectly tender. Start by cutting the chicken into thin strips; this helps it cook evenly and faster. Preheat your griddle properly so the chicken can sear and brown, locking in juices.
- Add the chicken to the griddle once the oil is hot, and don’t overcrowd the pan—this could cause steaming instead of browning.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check for doneness by cutting into a piece: it should be white throughout with no pink. Keeping it in strips helps avoid overcooking, as they only need about that time on high heat.
How to Make Blackstone Bourbon Chicken On The Griddle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking, and then you can serve it right away! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle:
Start by preheating your griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, pour in the olive oil to get it nice and sizzlin’.
2. Cook the Chicken:
When the oil is hot, toss in the sliced chicken thighs. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper for flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and has a nice golden color.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and bell peppers to the griddle. Let them cook together for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies start to soften up and their colors brighten.
4. Incorporate Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, bourbon, and brown sugar. This will be the sweet and savory sauce that ties everything together. Pour it over the chicken and veggies on the griddle.
6. Let it Simmer:
Allow the sauce to simmer on the griddle for about 5 minutes until it thickens a bit. If you like your sauce thicker, you can add the cornstarch-water mixture at this point and stir well to combine.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle your bourbon chicken with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the bourbon chicken hot over a bed of rice or noodles. Enjoy this tasty dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but they may require a bit more cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked. Just slice them into similar-sized strips for even cooking, and monitor them closely to avoid drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you’d prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or chicken broth for a different flavor profile. If you still want the sweetness without alcohol, a splash of apple juice can also work beautifully!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, cook the chicken and veggies on the griddle and add the sauce for a quick meal!
