Is Chicken Good on a Blackstone Griddle? A Complete Guide

What Is Blackstone Griddle Cooking?

What Is a Blackstone Griddle?

The Blackstone griddle is an outdoor flat-top grill known for its even heating surface and versatility. Unlike traditional grills, it has a solid, smooth surface that retains and distributes heat efficiently, allowing you to cook anything from meats to vegetables without flare-ups. Plus, the wide, open surface means you can cook large batches at once—perfect for entertaining!

Why Chicken Is Perfect for a Blackstone Griddle

Cooking chicken on a Blackstone griddle offers several advantages:

• Even Heat Distribution: The flat surface ensures your chicken cooks uniformly, avoiding undercooked or burnt spots.
• Moisture Retention: Since you control the heat and oil usage, your chicken stays tender and juicy.
• Large Cooking Area: You can cook multiple pieces of chicken at once—whether it’s for fajitas or a family BBQ.

Chicken also adapts well to different seasoning blends and marinades, making it perfect for experimenting with flavors.

Popular Chicken Dishes on a Blackstone

Some of the best chicken recipes for the Blackstone include:

• Grilled chicken breast with garlic herb seasoning
• Blackstone chicken fajitas with onions and peppers
• Teriyaki stir-fried chicken
• Juicy BBQ chicken thighs

The griddle’s flat top gives you the flexibility to sear, sauté, and grill—all in one place.

Cooking Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle

Benefits of Cooking Chicken on a Blackstone

Even Heat Distribution
One of the standout benefits of using a Blackstone is its consistent heat distribution. Unlike traditional grills where you might get annoying hot and cold spots, the Blackstone’s flat top spreads heat evenly across the surface. This means your chicken cooks uniformly, with no patchy areas of raw or overcooked meat—a common issue with open-flame grills.

Large Cooking Surface for Meal Prep
With the expansive cooking area of a Blackstone griddle, you can prepare a full meal in one go! Imagine cooking marinated chicken breasts alongside grilled vegetables and tortillas—all without running out of space. It’s a meal prep dream, especially for family gatherings or summer cookouts.

Retains Moisture in Chicken
Unlike open-flame grilling that can dry out the meat, the flat top traps in moisture, especially when paired with the right oil and cooking temperature. This is key for keeping chicken thighs and breasts succulent. Add a quick marinade or seasoning rub, and you’ve got tender, flavorful chicken every time.

Easy Cleanup
No more wrestling with grill grates or scrubbing stubborn residue. The smooth surface of a Blackstone allows you to scrape off food bits easily with a spatula. After a quick wipe and re-seasoning with oil, your griddle is good to go for the next cooking session.

What Types of Chicken Work Best?

Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly on the Blackstone, making them perfect for weeknight dinners. However, they can dry out if not handled properly.

Cooking Time and Thickness Considerations:

• Pound thicker pieces to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
• Grill each side for 6–8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

To retain juiciness, try brining the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking or using a marinade packed with moisture-locking ingredients like olive oil and lemon.

Chicken Thighs
For those who love tender, flavorful meat, chicken thighs are a standout. Thighs retain more moisture due to their higher fat content, making them less likely to dry out.

Why They’re Great for Grilling:

• They’re forgiving if slightly overcooked.
• Bone-in thighs deliver a rich, smoky flavor, while boneless thighs cook faster and absorb marinades better.

Boneless vs Bone-In Cuts
When it comes to grilling chicken, the choice between boneless and bone-in often boils down to preference.

Pros and Cons for Each:

• Boneless Chicken: Cooks faster and is easier to cut for fajitas or salads.
• Bone-In Chicken: Takes longer to cook but rewards you with deeper, juicier flavors. The bones act as insulators, helping the meat cook more evenly from the inside.

Preparation Tips Before Cooking Chicken on a Blackstone

Marinating Tips for Juicy Chicken
A good marinade not only boosts flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken.

• For tangy flavors: Use ingredients like citrus, vinegar, and yogurt.
• For savory blends: Try soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but avoid marinating for too long, as acidic ingredients can break down the meat’s texture if left overnight.

Best Seasoning Blends for Grilled Chicken

• Classic garlic-herb seasoning (garlic powder, parsley, thyme)
• Lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty kick
• Smoky paprika blend with cumin and chili powder for BBQ-inspired chicken

How to Oil the Blackstone Properly
Oiling your griddle is crucial to prevent chicken from sticking. Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like avocado or vegetable oil.

• Preheat the griddle, then use a paper towel or heat-resistant brush to spread a thin, even layer of oil across the surface.

This step also helps maintain the Blackstone’s non-stick seasoning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken on a Blackstone

Preheating the Blackstone

• Turn the burners to medium heat and let the griddle preheat for 5–10 minutes.
• The surface should reach around 375°F–400°F for optimal grilling.

Proper Temperature Settings for Chicken

• Chicken needs to cook at a steady heat to reach 165°F internally, which is the USDA-recommended safe temperature for poultry.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and avoid undercooking.

Searing and Flipping Technique

• Place the chicken on the hot griddle and let it sear without moving for 4–6 minutes to form a golden crust.
• Flip only once and cook for another 4–6 minutes until fully cooked through.

Resting the Chicken for Optimal Juiciness
Once you remove the chicken from the griddle, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dry, chalky meat.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Overcrowding the Griddle
Don’t be tempted to throw all your chicken pieces onto the griddle at once. Overcrowding reduces the heat distribution, causing the meat to steam instead of sear. Aim for a bit of space between each piece for proper caramelization.

Cooking at Too High or Low Temperatures

• Too high: You risk burning the exterior while the inside remains undercooked.
• Too low: The chicken may cook unevenly and turn rubbery.

Maintain a medium heat setting for consistent, even cooking.

Not Monitoring Internal Temperature
Relying solely on timing without checking the internal temperature can lead to dry or raw chicken. A quick-read meat thermometer is your best friend when grilling chicken on a Blackstone—ensuring it’s cooked to perfection.

Best Chicken Recipes for the Blackstone

When it comes to making the most out of your Blackstone griddle, having a lineup of delicious chicken recipes is a must. From quick weekday meals to party favorites, these recipes will make you the grill master of every gathering. Let’s dig into some mouthwatering dishes you can whip up on your Blackstone!

Grilled Chicken Breast with Garlic Herb Rub

A classic choice, grilled chicken breasts with a garlic herb rub are packed with flavor and perfect for a light, healthy dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

Blackstone Chicken Fajitas Nutritional Facts (Per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount (per 100g)
Calories	150 kcal
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fats	6g
Saturated Fats	1g
Sodium	250mg
Fiber	1g

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Blackstone: Set to medium heat and let it reach around 375°F.
3. Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the griddle and cook for 6–8 minutes per side.
4. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Blackstone Chicken Fajitas

These sizzling chicken fajitas with onions and peppers are bursting with flavor, just like in Blackstone chicken recipes. and perfect for taco night.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
• Warm tortillas and toppings (like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Season the chicken strips: In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon oil and fajita seasoning.
2. Heat the Blackstone: Preheat the griddle to medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon oil.
3. Cook the veggies: Sauté the onions and bell peppers until tender and slightly charred. Push them to one side.
4. Grill the chicken: Spread the chicken strips on the griddle and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine and serve: Mix the veggies and chicken together. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

A savory-sweet dish, teriyaki chicken stir-fry is quick, delicious, and perfect for using fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken and let it marinate for 20 minutes.
2. Preheat the griddle: Set the Blackstone to medium heat and drizzle with sesame oil.
3. Stir-fry the vegetables: Sauté the broccoli and bell pepper for 2–3 minutes. Push them to the side.
4. Cook the chicken: Spread the marinated chicken on the griddle and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
5. Combine: Mix the veggies and chicken, then drizzle extra teriyaki sauce over everything before serving.

BBQ Chicken Thighs

If you’re craving a smoky, charred BBQ flavor, chicken thighs are your best bet. They’re juicy and perfect for that signature caramelized crust.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the Blackstone: Set it to medium heat and let it preheat for 5 minutes.
3. Grill the chicken: Place the thighs skin-side down and cook for 6–8 minutes, then flip and brush BBQ sauce on the top.
4. Caramelize the sauce: Let the sauce cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly sticky and charred.
5. Rest and serve: Remove the thighs from the griddle, let them rest, and serve with coleslaw or cornbread for a true BBQ experience.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

These tangy, flavorful chicken skewers are perfect for outdoor gatherings or family BBQs.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, pepper, and salt. Add the chicken cubes and let them marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Blackstone: Heat to medium-high.
3. Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
4. Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the griddle and cook for 8–10 minutes, rotating to brown all sides evenly.
5. Serve: Serve the skewers hot with a side of tzatziki or a cucumber salad for a refreshing touch.

From tender teriyaki stir-fry to bold BBQ thighs, these recipes showcase just how versatile chicken can be on a Blackstone.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Your Blackstone After Cooking Chicken

Cooking juicy chicken on your Blackstone is satisfying, but keeping the griddle clean and in top shape is just as important. A properly maintained Blackstone ensures longer durability, better cooking results, and prevents rust buildup. Here’s how you can clean and care for your griddle after whipping up those delicious chicken recipes.

How to Clean the Griddle After Cooking

Scraping Off Residue
After turning off the heat, let the griddle cool slightly—just enough to be safe to handle but still warm. Use a metal scraper or griddle spatula to gently remove leftover bits of food and chicken drippings from the surface.

Removing Oil and Food Debris
Dampen a paper towel or cloth with warm water (no soap!) and wipe down the surface to remove any grease or food debris. For tougher spots, you can add a splash of water while the griddle is warm to create a steaming effect, which helps loosen stubborn residue.

Conditioning the Griddle with Oil After Cleaning
Once the surface is clean, add a small amount of oil (like vegetable or canola oil) and spread it evenly with a paper towel. This step re-seasons the griddle, preventing rust and maintaining that slick, non-stick surface for your next grilling session.

Avoiding Rust and Maintaining the Non-Stick Surface

How to Store the Griddle Properly
To avoid rust, make sure your Blackstone is completely dry after cleaning. Cover the griddle with a weather-resistant cover if stored outdoors, or bring it indoors during rainy or humid seasons.

Avoiding Abrasive Cleaning Tools
Never use steel wool or harsh scrubbers on your Blackstone—they can damage the surface and strip away its seasoning. Instead, stick to scrapers and soft cloths.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Chicken on a Blackstone

Conclusion

Cooking chicken on a Blackstone griddle is a fantastic way to enjoy flavorful, juicy meals with minimal effort. From crispy chicken fajitas to tender BBQ thighs, the griddle’s even heat distribution and spacious surface make it an outdoor cooking essential.

By following proper preparation, seasoning, and cooking techniques, you can easily level up your grilling game. Don’t forget to clean and re-season your Blackstone to keep it in prime condition for your next meal!

So, fire up your Blackstone, experiment with marinades and rubs, and create unforgettable chicken dishes that’ll have your family and friends asking for seconds!