Grilling chicken on a Blackstone griddle is a great way to achieve tender and juicy chicken with a perfect sear. In this article, I will share essential tips on how to grill chicken on a Blackstone, from preparing the chicken to getting the grill ready and cooking techniques.
Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Properly marinate and thaw the chicken before grilling
- Preheat the Blackstone grill to medium-high heat and season it with oil to prevent sticking
- Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption
- Avoid pressing down on the chicken while cooking, baste it with marinade or sauce, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving
- Experiment with various marinades, rubs, and sauces to create your signature grilled chicken dishes
Preparing the Chicken
Before I fire up my Blackstone grill, I always make sure to properly prepare the chicken for grilling. This ensures that the final product is tender and flavorful.
The first step is to marinate the chicken in your desired spices and seasonings for at least 30 minutes. This helps to enhance the flavor of the meat and makes it more tender. When done marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
If using frozen chicken, ensure that it is fully thawed before grilling. This helps to promote even cooking, preventing any raw spots. I like to pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture that may cause the chicken to steam instead of grill.
When ready to grill, I season the chicken with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides.
Getting the Blackstone Grill Ready
Now that the chicken is prepared, it’s time to fire up the Blackstone grill. The first step is to preheat the griddle to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice sear. I recommend using a thermometer to get the temperature just right, which should be around 375°F (190°C).
It’s also important to season the griddle with a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking. You can use vegetable or canola oil, but I prefer using olive oil for its added flavor. Once the griddle is hot and seasoned, it’s ready to start grilling the chicken.
If you’re looking to try different cooking techniques for Blackstone griddle chicken, you can experiment with different types of oil or even butter for added flavor.
Grilling the Chicken
Grilling chicken on a Blackstone requires attention to detail to achieve juicy and perfectly cooked meat. Start by placing the chicken on the preheated griddle and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side over medium-high heat, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. To ensure safe consumption, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
When grilling BBQ chicken on a Blackstone, it’s important to avoid overcooking or undercooking the meat. Keep track of the cooking time and adjust the heat if necessary to achieve that perfect char. If you’re cooking chicken breasts with the skin on, start by grilling the skin side first to crisp it up before turning over for the remaining cook time.
Tip: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken. This will help you avoid undercooked or overcooked meat and achieve juicy and well-cooked chicken every time.
Remember, avoid pressing down on the chicken while it’s cooking as this will release the juices and result in dry meat. Instead, let the chicken cook undisturbed to retain its flavor and moisture. Basting the chicken with a marinade or sauce during grilling will add flavor and help retain moisture, resulting in juicy grilled chicken.
Gently remove the chicken from the Blackstone griddle using tongs and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier and more flavorful grilled chicken.
Tips for Juicy Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken can be a delicious and healthy meal, but it’s easy to end up with dry and tough meat if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to ensure juicy and flavorful grilled chicken every time:
- Avoid pressing on the chicken: Resist the urge to flatten the chicken with a spatula during cooking. This will release the natural juices and leave you with dry meat.
- Baste the chicken: Basting with a marinade or sauce during grilling can add flavor and help retain moisture. Brush the chicken with your preferred basting sauce every few minutes while it cooks.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your chicken is cooked all the way through but still moist, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest: After removing the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your grilled chicken always turns out juicy and delicious.
Serving Suggestions and Blackstone Grill Recipes
Now that your chicken is grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick and easy dinner, grilled chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. Here are a few serving suggestions and Blackstone grill recipes to get you started:
Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
For a classic grilled chicken sandwich, start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Grill the chicken on the Blackstone griddle until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Toast buns on the griddle and add toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Serve with a side of potato salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Grilled Chicken Kebabs
Kebabs are a fun way to mix up your grilled chicken game. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and alternate with vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini on skewers. Brush with a marinade of your choice and grill on the Blackstone griddle until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Chicken Fajitas
For a flavorful and spicy dish, try making chicken fajitas on the Blackstone griddle. Marinate chicken strips in a blend of spices, lime juice, and olive oil. Grill on the griddle along with sliced onions and bell peppers until cooked through. Serve with tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
With these Blackstone grill recipes, you can create a variety of delicious and juicy grilled chicken dishes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, marinades, and techniques to find your perfect recipe!
Conclusion
Grilling chicken on a Blackstone griddle is a fantastic way to cook up a delicious and juicy meal. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to master the art of grilling chicken on a Blackstone in no time. Remember to properly prepare the chicken by marinating it and ensuring it is fully thawed. Season the griddle with a thin layer of oil before preheating it to medium-high heat, and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
To achieve juicy grilled chicken, avoid pressing down on it while cooking, baste it with marinade or sauce, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different marinades, rubs, and recipes to find your signature grilled chicken dishes.
I hope these chicken grilling tips and Blackstone grill recipes have been helpful to you. Happy grilling!
FAQ
Q: What is the ideal temperature for grilling chicken on a Blackstone?
A: It is recommended to preheat the Blackstone grill to medium-high heat before grilling chicken.
Q: How long should I cook chicken on a Blackstone?
A: Cook chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I use frozen chicken on a Blackstone grill?
A: It is best to thaw the chicken thoroughly before grilling to promote even cooking and prevent any raw spots.
Q: Should I press down on the chicken while grilling?
A: Avoid pressing down on the chicken while it’s cooking to retain the juices and ensure moist meat.
Q: How should I serve the grilled chicken?
A: Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides such as grilled vegetables, salads, or mashed potatoes. You can also try different marinades, rubs, and sauces to enhance the flavor.
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