Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Picture this: a warm summer evening, candles flickering on the patio, and the sound of laughter and clinking glasses filling the air. That’s the environment where I first discovered the mouthwatering delight of Blackstone Bourbon Chicken. It was a simple get-together with friends, but the taste of that chicken, with its sweet, smoky glaze and tender meat, danced on my palate and stole my heart. Since then, it’s been a staple in my kitchen—a recipe that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s the perfect marriage of flavors and ease, making it a go-to for any occasion, whether it’s casual dining or a backyard barbecue with friends. Trust me, once you make this, you won’t want to go back!

What makes this recipe special

This Blackstone Bourbon Chicken recipe is my culinary secret that you’ll absolutely adore. The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a glossy, caramelized glaze that sweetly envelops the chicken, providing a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible! It strikes a beautiful balance between sweetness and a hint of umami, making it a harmonious taste sensation that’ll please everyone at your table. Not to mention, cooking it on the Blackstone griddle gives the chicken those charming grill marks and that slight smoky flavor that takes it to the next level. Experience the thrill of grilling while infusing a little culinary elegance into your dinner!

Gather these ingredients

To embark on this flavorful journey, here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and ready to soak up all the amazing flavors!
• 1/2 cup bourbon: This brings a rich, deep flavor; if you’re not a fan of bourbon, feel free to substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: A salty kick, enhancing the umami notes. Use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: This is what gives your chicken that beautiful caramelization when grilled.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: A splash of tanginess to balance the sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a zesty warmth that beautifully complements the bourbon.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For that dash of heat and depth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for grilling and keeping everything moist and juicy.

Preparing Blackstone Bourbon Chicken

Ready to dive in? Let’s break down the steps to create this scrumptious dish:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes—if you can manage it, refrigerate for up to 2 hours for even better flavor absorption!
3. Preheat the Blackstone griddle over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it warm up so the chicken can sear beautifully.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t forget to discard that marinade) and place them on the griddle.
5. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Trust me, you want that perfect sear!
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy. Serve it up and get ready for the applause!

How to plate and pair

When it comes to serving this luscious chicken, think about balance. I love putting it on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes that soak up all that amazing glaze. Looking to brighten things up? A side of crunchy green beans or a fresh garden salad will add a delightful crunch and color contrast. Don’t forget to garnish your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions to add an inviting pop. Want to really impress? Drizzle on some more of that marinade (simmered lightly) over the top—everyone will be asking for seconds!

How to store and freeze

Leftovers, anyone? If you have any, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight—seriously! For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it through in a skillet or the microwave. Just make sure to splash in a bit of broth or water if it looks a bit dry to keep that juiciness intact. Safe food handling? Always a good idea!

Helpful cooking tips

Here’s where I spill the beans on making this recipe absolutely foolproof! First off, let that chicken marinate. It’s a step you’ll want to embrace because it’s where the magic happens. For a smoky twist, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to your marinade, or even some crushed red pepper if you like it spicy. And if you’re feeling fancy, try finishing the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving—they add an excellent textural contrast and a hint of nutty flavor. Plus, don’t be shy about experimenting with your favorite herbs or citrus zest—there’s no wrong turn in the kitchen!

Creative Twists

Did I mention variations? There’s no limit to how you can make this dish uniquely yours! Try adding some chopped pineapples to the marinade for a sweet tropical twist, or toss in some sliced bell peppers while grilling for added sweetness and crunch. Feeling adventurous? Swap the bourbon for whiskey or rum for a different flavor profile, or replace the brown sugar with honey for a more floral sweetness. Your kitchen, your rules—enjoy the process and have fun with it!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions to follow

1. In a bowl, mix bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Blackstone griddle over medium heat and add the olive oil.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Your questions answered

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier, so go for it.
• What’s the best bourbon for cooking? A mid-range bourbon will do just fine; you don’t need to break the bank.
• How spicy is this dish? It’s not spicy at all, but you can add chili flakes to spice things up if you wish.
• Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, marinate the chicken a day ahead to enhance the flavors.
• What should I serve with it? Think rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad as delightful accompaniments!

Cooking brings us closer and transforms our kitchens into creative spaces of joy. I hope you give this Blackstone Bourbon Chicken a try, mix your own special touch into it, and share the love and joy it brings you! Let’s keep this delicious journey rolling together—share your experiences and any twists you create in the comments. Happy cooking!

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