If you are searching for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe is an absolute winner. This recipe brings juicy strips of tender chicken coated in a luscious bourbon sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the griddle, marrying a hint of heat from sriracha with the mellow sweetness of brown sugar and apple juice. Every bite feels vibrant and comforting, making it a delightful meal whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends. Plus, cooking it all on the griddle keeps things quick and ensures those gorgeous seared edges that make this recipe truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet essential to create that signature flavor and texture in the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe. Each one plays a starring role in bringing harmony between sweetness, acidity, and spice, while also adding brightness and a wonderful balance of textures.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips): The lean protein base that soaks up all the delicious sauce and cooks evenly on the griddle.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a slight crispiness when cooked.
- 6 mini sweet bell peppers (chopped): Adds a pop of color and natural sweetness, balancing the savory flavors.
- ½ medium onion (chopped): Gives a subtle sharpness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- 1 green onion (sliced for garnish, optional): Offers a fresh, mild bite that brightens the finished dish.
- 2 tbsps cooking oil: Needed to achieve that perfect sear on the griddle without sticking.
- ½ cup chicken stock: Adds savory depth and moisture to the sauce.
- â…“ cup low sodium soy sauce: Infuses rich umami and saltiness while keeping the flavors balanced.
- ½ cup bourbon: The star ingredient that lends complexity, sweetness, and warmth.
- ¼ cup apple juice: Provides natural fruity sweetness to complement the bourbon.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that cuts through richness perfectly.
- â…“ cup packed brown sugar: Balances spicy and tangy elements with molasses-like sweetness.
- 2 tbsps ketchup: Adds a mild tomato flavor and bright color to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp sriracha: Offers just the right amount of heat and garlic notes.
- ½ tbsp minced garlic: Enhances the savory profile with its fragrant punch.
- ¼ tsp minced ginger: Lends subtle warmth and zest to round out the sauce.
How to Make Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing the chicken strips with the cornstarch. Letting them sit for about 20 minutes not only allows the cornstarch to coat the chicken evenly but also ensures it will crisp beautifully on the griddle when cooked. This simple step helps set the stage for juicy, tender bites with just a touch of delightful crunch.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce
In a separate bowl, blend the chicken stock, soy sauce, bourbon, apple juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, sriracha, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisking everything until smooth creates a perfect marriage of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that will simmer down into a rich, glossy glaze. This sauce is what truly sets the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe apart.
Step 3: Preheat the Griddle
Heat your griddle to a toasty 400-425 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly oil the surface. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful browned edges that add so much character and extra flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken strips on the hot griddle and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until they’re perfectly cooked through and start to caramelize. The high heat seals in the juices while giving them a mouthwatering texture.
Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped bell peppers and onions to the griddle with the chicken. Sauté everything together for about 3 minutes to soften the veggies slightly while keeping them vibrant and adding a fresh crunch contrast.
Step 6: Add the Sauce and Thicken
Pour your prepared bourbon sauce over the chicken and vegetables, then let it simmer right on the griddle for another 4 to 5 minutes. During this time, the sauce thickens beautifully and clings to all the ingredients, coating each piece in a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s irresistible.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Once your sauce is thick and glossy, remove the chicken and veggies from the griddle and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot for maximum flavor and texture pleasure.
How to Serve Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe
Garnishes
Scattering thinly sliced green onions on top adds a fresh, mild crunch that brightens every bite. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty flavor and appealing texture contrast. These simple garnishes elevate the dish’s presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This bourbon chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice that soaks up all the sauce. For a low-carb or veggie boost, serve alongside stir-fried greens or roasted broccoli. The rich sauce can also complement creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles if you prefer a heartier base.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe into a tasty wrap by stuffing it inside warm tortillas with crisp lettuce and a squeeze of lime. Alternatively, pile it over a bowl of quinoa and roasted veggies for a vibrant, healthful meal bowl. Serving it family-style on a large platter invites everyone to dig in and share the joy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover bourbon chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Freezing
If you want to keep your bourbon chicken longer, freezing is totally doable. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it covered to keep the chicken moist and the sauce luscious. Adding a splash of water or chicken stock can refresh the sauce, preventing it from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would add even more richness and juiciness to the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe. Just be sure to slice them thinly, so they cook evenly and quickly on the griddle.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon?
If you prefer to skip the alcohol, you can replace bourbon with apple juice combined with a splash of vanilla extract to mimic the sweetness and depth. This keeps the flavor profile close while keeping it kid-friendly.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop skillet instead of a griddle?
Yes, a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan works perfectly if you don’t have a griddle. Just make sure to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and get a nice sear on each piece.
How spicy is the dish with sriracha?
The sriracha adds a gentle warmth that enhances the flavors without being overpoweringly spicy. You can adjust the amount to your heat preference or omit it altogether if you want it milder.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce can be whisked together a day before cooking and refrigerated. This can save you time on the day you make the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe and allow the flavors to blend even more deeply.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe is a keeper you’ll return to again and again. It’s easy, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with anyone who loves a little sweet, smoky, and spicy kick. Give it a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bourbon Chicken on the Griddle recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to perfection with a flavorful bourbon sauce, complemented by sweet bell peppers and onions. The dish is quick to prepare and boasts a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner served over rice or your favorite side.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Vegetables
- 6 mini sweet bell peppers, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ½ medium onion, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 green onion, sliced for garnish (optional)
Bourbon Sauce
- ½ cup chicken stock
- â…“ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup apple juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- â…“ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsps ketchup
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- ½ tbsp minced garlic
- ¼ tsp minced ginger
Other
- 2 tbsps your favorite cooking oil
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Toss the sliced chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and let them marinate for 20 minutes. This helps to tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce later.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together chicken stock, low sodium soy sauce, bourbon, apple juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, sriracha, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined.
- Preheat Griddle: Heat your griddle to 400-425°F and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Place the marinated chicken strips on the hot griddle and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped sweet bell peppers and onion to the griddle with the chicken. Continue to sauté for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Add Sauce and Simmer: Pour the prepared bourbon sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Cook together for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
- Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve hot over cooked rice or your preferred side dishes.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control salt levels in the dish.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the sriracha.
- Ensure the griddle is properly preheated for even cooking and better sear on the chicken.
- Substitute bourbon with a non-alcoholic option such as apple cider for a milder flavor.
- This dish pairs well with steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
