Chicken is a versatile protein loved by many, and nothing beats the flavor of chicken when it’s properly grilled. That’s where the Blackstone grill comes in handy. It’s a versatile and efficient cooking tool that allows you to cook your chicken to perfection. In this article, we will explore different ways to cook chicken on the Blackstone grill, from mouth-watering marinades to delicious recipes. We will also take you through the steps of achieving the perfect sear on your Blackstone-grilled chicken and how to know when your chicken is fully cooked. So, get ready to unleash your inner chef and let’s dive in!
How to cook chicken on a Blackstone grill?
Before we delve into the recipes and marinades, let’s go through the basics of cooking chicken on the Blackstone grill. Firstly, preheat your grill to 400-450°F. Meanwhile, rinse your chicken under cold water and pat dry using paper towels. This will allow the seasoning to stick to the chicken, and remove any excess moisture that could interfere with the grilling process. Secondly, season your chicken with salt, black pepper, and your favorite spices. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Once the grill is hot enough, oil the cooking surface using a brush or oil-soaked paper towel. Place your chicken on the grill and watch as it sizzles. Don’t overcrowd the grill; ensure there is enough space between pieces; this will ensure even cooking. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
One important thing to keep in mind when cooking chicken on a Blackstone grill is to avoid piercing the meat with a fork or tongs. This can cause the juices to escape, resulting in dry and tough chicken. Instead, use a spatula or tongs with a flat surface to flip the chicken.
Another tip is to experiment with different marinades and sauces to add flavor to your chicken. Some popular options include teriyaki, BBQ, and lemon herb marinades. You can also try basting the chicken with melted butter or olive oil while it cooks to keep it moist and flavorful.
Delicious chicken marinades for Blackstone grilling
Marinades enhance the flavor and tenderness of chicken. Below are some of our favorite marinades:
- Lemon and herb marinade: Combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano in a bowl. Add your chicken and let it marinate for one hour or more.
- Yogurt and Spice marinade: Combine plain yogurt, turmeric, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add your chicken and let it marinate overnight.
- Teriyaki marinade: Combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in a bowl. Add your chicken and let it marinate for 2-3 hours.
Marinating chicken is not only a great way to add flavor, but it can also help to tenderize the meat. The acid in the marinade breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender and juicy. However, it’s important not to marinate chicken for too long, as the acid can start to break down the meat too much and make it mushy.
When grilling chicken on a Blackstone, it’s important to preheat the griddle to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the surface. You can also add some oil to the griddle to prevent sticking and to help create a nice sear on the chicken. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Tips for achieving the perfect sear on your Blackstone-grilled chicken
Getting a good sear means you’ll have that crispy and crusty exterior on your chicken. These tips can help you achieve the perfect sear:
- Ensure the grill is hot enough before placing the chicken on the grill.
- Oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill to avoid steam buildup that will result in uneven cooking.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and grilling.
Another important tip for achieving the perfect sear on your Blackstone-grilled chicken is to let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping it. This will allow the chicken to develop a nice crust on the surface. Additionally, using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken can help you avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken.
It’s also important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute. This will help keep the chicken moist and tender. Cover the chicken with foil while it rests to keep it warm. With these tips, you can achieve a perfectly seared and juicy chicken every time you grill on your Blackstone.
How to know when your Blackstone-grilled chicken is fully cooked
Knowing when your chicken is cooked is essential to ensure it’s safe to eat. To check if your chicken is fully cooked, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should be 165°F. If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, return it to the grill and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the right temperature is achieved.
Mouth-watering Blackstone-grilled chicken breast recipes
Blackstone grills are not only efficient but versatile. Here are some creative recipes that you can try with chicken breast on your Blackstone grill:
- Grilled chicken breast with lemon and herb sauce: Grill your chicken breast according to the steps outlined above then serve with a creamy lemon and herb sauce. The sauce is made by combining lemon juice, garlic, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Grilled chicken breast salad: Grill your chicken breast, then slice it and serve it on a bed of mixed lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, and your favorite salad dressing.
- Grilled chicken Caesar salad: Grill your chicken breast, then slice it and serve on a bed of romaine lettuce, croutons, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Spicy and flavorful Blackstone-grilled chicken wing recipes
Chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser, and they’re perfect when grilled on the Blackstone grill. Here are some chicken wing recipes to try:
- Spicy buffalo wings: Grill your chicken wings, then toss them with hot sauce, butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
- BBQ chicken wings: Grill your chicken wings, then brush them with your favorite barbecue sauce. Return to the grill and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce caramelizes and the wings are crispy.
- Lemon pepper wings: Grill your chicken wings, then toss them with lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. Serve with a lemon and herb dipping sauce.
Creative ways to use leftover Blackstone-grilled chicken in your meals
Don’t let your leftover chicken go to waste, here are some creative ideas on how to use them in your meals:
- Chicken salad: Chop your leftover chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix with diced celery, onions, mayonnaise, and season with salt and black pepper. Serve alongside crackers or bread for a quick and tasty lunch.
- Chicken quesadillas: Chop your leftover chicken and stuff between a tortilla with cheese, onion, and bell pepper. Toast on your griddle until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
- Chicken stir-fry: Chop your leftover chicken and stir-fry with vegetables, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Serve with rice or noodles.
Health benefits of cooking chicken on a Blackstone grill
Besides being delicious, cooking chicken on the Blackstone grill has numerous health benefits. Firstly, it’s a low-fat cooking method since excess fat drips off during the grilling process. Additionally, grilling adds smoky flavor without the need for extra oil or butter. Finally, grilling is a quick cooking method, preventing the loss of vital nutrients as compared to simmering or boiling.
Top-rated spices and rubs for Blackstone-grilled chicken recipes
Adding spice and rubs to your chicken can enhance its flavor. Here are some top-rated spices and rubs to try:
- Garlic and herb seasoning: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and thyme.
- Cajun seasoning: A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Smoky barbeque rub: A mix of smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
How to clean and maintain your Blackstone grill after cooking chicken
Cleaning and maintaining your Blackstone grill after cooking chicken is vital to keep it in good condition. Follow these tips to clean and maintain your grill:
- Wait for it to cool down before cleaning.
- Remove excess grease and food debris using a scraper or spatula.
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then rinse with hot water.
- Drain the oil from the griddle using a grease catcher or a spout.
- Season your griddle for its next use by coating it with a thin layer of oil.
Common mistakes to avoid when cooking chicken on a Blackstone grill
As with any cooking method, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid when cooking chicken on the Blackstone grill:
- Overcrowding the grill which results in uneven cooking.
- Not preheating the grill enough.
- Not patting the chicken dry before seasoning and grilling.
- Not using a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is fully cooked.
Comparison of different types of grills for cooking chicken
There are various types of grills, and each has pros and cons. Here is a brief comparison of the different types of grills for cooking chicken:
- Charcoal grill: produces smoky and charred flavor but requires time-consuming setup and cleaning.
- Gas grill: quick and easy to use but doesn’t produce smoky flavor.
- Electric grill: easy to use, produces minimal smoke but has a less intense flavor.
- Blackstone grill: Versatile, quick heating, and produces smoky flavors without the need for charcoal or gas.
Pairing wine with your Blackstone-grilled chicken dishes
Pairing wine with your grilled chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some wine recommendations to try with your Blackstone grilled chicken dishes:
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with citrus and herb grilled chicken dishes.
- A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs well with BBQ and smoky chicken dishes.
- A light red wine like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel pairs well with spicier chicken dishes like buffalo wings and chili-rubbed chicken.
How to serve grilled chicken dishes in creative ways
Presentation is everything when it comes to food. Here are some creative ways to serve your grilled chicken dishes:
- Serve grilled chicken breasts on a bed of quinoa salad with fresh herbs.
- Stuff grilled chicken breasts with spinach and feta filling, then serve them sliced with a side of roasted potatoes.
- Serve grilled chicken wings in a cone shape, with dipping sauce on the side for a fun and innovative way to enjoy wings.
Conclusion
Now you’re ready to take on the grilling world with these chicken on the Blackstone recipes. Remember to preheat your grill, use marinades, and keep your grill clean after every use. You can try different herbs, rubs, and seasonings to spice up your chicken recipes. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different wine pairings and serving styles. Happy grilling!
