There’s something about cooking on a Blackstone griddle that brings out the chef in me! It could be the even heat, the large cooking surface, or just how fun it is to whip up a dinner that everyone loves. One of my all-time favorite dishes to make on my trusty Blackstone is a vibrant and juicy Chicken Thighs recipe. Not only are these thighs incredibly easy to prepare, but they also explode with flavor and wickedly satisfying char-grilled goodness. Plus, they always remind me of those sunny weekend cookouts I had with my family growing up, where everyone gathered around the grill sharing stories and laughter.
As I sizzle those chicken thighs on the griddle, the savory aroma fills the outdoor space, reminding me of the hum of summer and the joyful chatter of loved ones. What I particularly adore about this recipe is how versatile it is; you can change up the spices to suit your taste or get creative with sides. Whether you’ve got a family gathering coming up or just a dinner for one, this dish is bound to be a hit!
What’s in Delicious Blackstone Chicken Thighs?
Let’s chat about the stars of the show – the ingredients! I like to keep it simple yet tasty, so here’s the rundown:
Chicken Thighs: The foundation of this recipe! I prefer using bone-in, skin-on thighs for that extra juiciness and flavor. You can use boneless thighs if you’re looking for something a bit lighter.
Olive Oil: This helps maintain moisture and achieve that lovely sear on the chicken. I always choose extra-virgin olive oil for its fruity flavor.
Garlic Powder: I’m a huge fan of garlic—it elevates the entire dish! Garlic powder gives a concentrated taste without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic.
Onion Powder: This one adds a mild sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Great flavor booster that’s easy to use!
Paprika: Whether you go for sweet, smoked, or hot, paprika adds a rich dimension and gorgeous color to the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential! These seasonings enhance all the flavors.
Is Delicious Blackstone Chicken Thighs Good for You?
Absolutely! The health benefits of this dish depend largely on how you season and serve it.
Chicken Thighs: While they may have a bit more fat than chicken breasts, the richness of chicken thighs offers more flavor and moisture. They are a great source of protein, iron, and zinc, making them a nourishing choice for a balanced diet.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat is packed with monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels. Plus, it’s rich in antioxidants!
However, if you’re watching your saturated fat intake, simply trim excess fat from the thighs before cooking or consider substituting some skinless chicken.
Ingredients List
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika (your preference)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead!
How to Make Delicious Blackstone Chicken Thighs?
1. **Prep the Griddle:** Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking!
2. **Season the Chicken:** In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well with the seasoning mixture.
3. **Cook the Thighs:** Place the chicken thighs skin side down on the hot griddle. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
4. **Flip and Continue Cooking:** Carefully flip the thighs over and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. **Rest and Serve:** Once cooked, let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes to retain their juices. Serve with your favorite sides!
Grill Master Tips for Success!
– **Avoid Moving the Chicken:** Resist the urge to flip and move the chicken around too much. Letting it sear properly helps to achieve that lovely crispy skin.
– **Experiment with Marinades:** If you want to up the flavor ante, marinate your chicken thighs overnight in your favorite marinade. Soy sauce, honey, and ginger make for a delightful combo!
– **Serve with Sides:** Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad pairs exquisitely with these chicken thighs. Think of colorful summer veggies to keep it lively.
Now that you have the juicy details on this delightful recipe, I’d love for you to give it a try! The Chicken Thighs are so easy, and I can almost guarantee they’ll become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any personal twists you added. Happy cooking!
