Cooking chicken breast on a Blackstone griddle is a fantastic way to get juicy, flavorful meat with a delicious sear. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griddle pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master chicken breast on your Blackstone griddle.
Why Use a Blackstone Griddle for Chicken Breast?
The Blackstone griddle offers a large, flat cooking surface that heats evenly, making it perfect for cooking chicken breasts. It allows you to get a nice crust while locking in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy chicken every time. Plus, it’s versatile and easy to clean, making it a favorite for backyard cooks.
Preparing Your Chicken Breast
Before you start cooking, preparation is key:
– Trim and Dry: Rinse your chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat or skin.
– Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts gently to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents some parts from drying out.
– Season or Marinate: You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs, or marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse more flavor. A marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works beautifully.
Preheating the Blackstone Griddle
– Turn on your Blackstone griddle and preheat it to medium-high heat, aiming for about 375°F to 400°F.
– Let it heat for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure even temperature across the surface.
– Apply a thin layer of oil (avocado, olive, or vegetable oil) to prevent sticking and help with browning.
Cooking the Chicken Breast
- Place the Chicken: Lay your seasoned chicken breasts on the hot griddle, leaving enough space between each piece for even cooking.
- Cook Time: Cook for about 5-7 minutes on the first side without moving them. This helps develop a nice sear.
- Flip and Finish: Flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the griddle and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Tips for Perfect Blackstone Chicken Breast
– Don’t Overcrowd: Give each piece room to cook evenly and prevent steaming.
– Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
– Oil the Griddle Well: Since chicken breast is lean, oiling the surface prevents sticking and helps with browning.
– Season Generously: Chicken benefits from bold seasoning or a flavorful marinade.
– Let it Rest: Resting is crucial for juicy chicken.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Classic Herb: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme or rosemary.
– Spicy Kick: Paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper.
– Citrus Herb Marinade: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs.
– BBQ Glaze: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of cooking for a sticky, flavorful crust.
Serving Suggestions
Sliced Blackstone chicken breast is perfect for salads, sandwiches, tacos, or served alongside grilled veggies and rice. Its juicy texture and flavorful crust make it a versatile protein for any meal.
Cooking chicken breast on a Blackstone griddle is quick, easy, and delivers delicious results every time. With a little prep and these simple steps, you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy inside and beautifully seared outside.