This chicken breast recipe on a Blackstone griddle is super easy and results in juicy, tasty meat every time. It’s seasoned just right and cooks quickly!
I love making this for lunch because it’s healthy and packed with flavor. It’s fantastic in wraps or salads—perfect for when I want something yummy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, thinly sliced chicken thighs can work too, providing more flavor and moisture.
Olive Oil: This oil adds richness and helps the spices stick. If you prefer, avocado oil is a great substitute for its high smoke point and similar flavor profile.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These give great depth to the chicken. You can substitute with fresh garlic and onion, just be aware that they may burn quicker on the griddle, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be used, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Italian Seasoning: Feel free to use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand. It adds a nice herbaceous note.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Cooks Evenly?
Flattening the chicken breasts is the key to even cooking. This step ensures that each part of the chicken cooks at the same rate, preventing any dry or undercooked spots. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness (about ¾ inch).
- Don’t apply too much force; just enough to flatten it without tearing.
Additionally, let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat when you slice it! Aim for that internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly safe and cooked through.
Perfect Blackstone Griddle Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate, plus approximately 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 55 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness. You can use a meat mallet or rolling pin for this. This step helps the chicken cook evenly, giving you that perfect texture throughout.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This blend of spices will give your chicken a delicious flavor.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Coat the flattened chicken breasts with the marinade, making sure they are well-covered. For the best flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, a couple of hours in the refrigerator will enhance the taste even more.
4. Heat the Griddle:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Be sure it’s hot enough to create a nice sear on the chicken!
5. Cook the Chicken:
Once the griddle is hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on it. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them—this will create a great sear! Then, flip them over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This is key to making sure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
6. Let It Rest:
When the chicken is done, remove it from the griddle and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more tender and juicy.
7. Serve:
Finally, slice the chicken breasts against the grain for the best texture. Serve with fresh lemon slices on the side for a little extra zing! Enjoy your perfectly cooked griddled chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will work just fine. They might need a slightly longer cooking time, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
How Can I Adjust the Spices in This Recipe?
Feel free to customize the spice blend to your taste! If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also reduce the smoked paprika for a milder flavor, or substitute fresh herbs for dried ones if you have them on hand.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal.
What Should I Serve with the Griddled Chicken?
This chicken goes great with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It also pairs excellently with rice or quinoa!
