The Blackstone griddle offers a unique way to cook chicken thighs, delivering juicy, flavorful results with beautiful grill marks. Whether you're a seasoned griddle chef or a beginner, this guide provides delicious and versatile Blackstone chicken thigh recipes to tantalize your taste buds. We'll cover everything from simple preparations to more complex flavor profiles, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Why Blackstone Griddle for Chicken Thighs?
The large surface area of a Blackstone griddle allows for even cooking, preventing overcrowding and ensuring each thigh cooks uniformly. The high heat sears the chicken beautifully, creating a crispy skin and locking in the juices. Unlike traditional grills, the flat surface makes it easier to manage multiple pieces of chicken simultaneously. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Simple & Delicious: Classic Blackstone Grilled Chicken Thighs
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Place the chicken thighs on the preheated griddle, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
- Remove from the griddle and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Blackstone Chicken Thighs with BBQ Glaze
Elevate your classic grilled chicken thighs with a tangy and smoky BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Your favorite BBQ sauce (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-4 from the "Classic Blackstone Grilled Chicken Thighs" recipe.
- Once the chicken is cooked through but not quite finished, brush generously with BBQ sauce.
- Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes per side, allowing the sauce to caramelize and create a delicious glaze.
- Remove from the griddle, let rest, and serve.
Blackstone Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
For a lighter and brighter flavor profile, try this lemon herb recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano – or a combination)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium heat.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and herbs.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken on the griddle and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Spicy Blackstone Chicken Thighs
Add a kick to your meal with this spicy chicken thigh recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat.
- Combine olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
- Place the chicken on the griddle and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs on a Blackstone Griddle?
The cooking time for chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle depends on the thickness of the thighs and the heat of the griddle. Generally, it takes 6-8 minutes per side for boneless, skinless thighs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Can I Cook Bone-In Chicken Thighs on a Blackstone?
Yes, you can absolutely cook bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle. However, you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in thighs will take longer to cook, typically 10-15 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What Temperature Should My Blackstone Be for Chicken Thighs?
The ideal temperature for cooking chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle is medium-high heat (around 350-400°F). This temperature allows for a nice sear while ensuring the chicken cooks through evenly.
These Blackstone chicken thigh recipes offer a variety of flavors and cooking styles. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to create your own signature dish. Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked to a safe temperature. Happy grilling!