If you’re looking for a flavor-packed meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, this Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki is your perfect match. Juicy chicken thighs get a rich marinade treatment of teriyaki, honey, and spices, and then sizzle to caramelized perfection on the Blackstone griddle. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the dinner table.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend cookouts, this dish brings savory-sweet Asian-inspired flavors to your backyard. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s an effortless way to serve a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal right at home. Garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, every bite is a burst of bold and satisfying taste.
Full Recipe:
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons ginger powder
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your Blackstone griddle or a large flat top grill to medium-high heat.
Drizzle vegetable oil onto the griddle surface and spread it around.
Add the marinated chicken to the griddle and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki
Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the sweet and savory tastes of traditional teriyaki with the smoky essence of griddle cooking. Perfectly juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich blend of teriyaki sauce, soy, honey, and spices are seared to caramelized perfection on a Blackstone griddle. This method gives the chicken an irresistible char while locking in moisture, making it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, outdoor gatherings, and casual cookouts. It’s a fast and easy way to bring a restaurant-quality Asian-inspired dish straight to your own backyard.
This dish is not only simple but also incredibly versatile, allowing home cooks to customize flavors, toppings, and sides according to personal preference. Whether you’re an experienced griddle enthusiast or trying it out for the first time, Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki promises a mouthwatering experience with minimal effort.
Why Cook Chicken Teriyaki on a Blackstone Griddle?
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle has become increasingly popular because of its even heat distribution and large cooking surface. Unlike traditional indoor stovetops, the griddle allows you to sear large amounts of food quickly without overcrowding. This is crucial for recipes like Chicken Teriyaki, where you want the marinade to caramelize beautifully without the meat steaming.
The griddle’s open, flat surface allows the chicken to develop a gorgeous char while maintaining a juicy interior. Plus, the slight smokiness from the high-heat searing adds another depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate indoors. It’s also fun—standing outside, flipping sizzling chicken with the smell of sweet teriyaki sauce filling the air is an experience that turns ordinary cooking into an event.
The Appeal of Teriyaki Flavors
Teriyaki, a Japanese cooking technique and flavor profile, is beloved worldwide for its balance of sweet, salty, and umami tastes. The word “teriyaki” translates to “glossy broil,” referencing the shiny glaze the sauce gives to meats as it cooks.
In this Blackstone version, the teriyaki sauce combines with honey for added sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, and garlic and ginger for warmth and complexity. The result is a thick, syrupy marinade that coats the chicken and caramelizes beautifully under high heat.
The flavors are bold but accessible, making it a crowd-pleasing choice for both picky eaters and adventurous food lovers alike. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to love at first bite, with layers of flavor that feel both comforting and exotic.
Tips for Making the Perfect Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki
To make sure your Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki turns out perfectly every time, there are a few expert tips to keep in mind. First, make sure the griddle is preheated properly. Starting with a hot surface ensures the chicken sears rather than steams, leading to that beautiful caramelization.
Another key point is not to overcrowd the griddle. Leaving some space between the chicken pieces allows the heat to circulate evenly, achieving a better sear and more consistent cooking. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Marination is also crucial. While you can get away with just 30 minutes, letting the chicken soak up the marinade for a few hours or even overnight will intensify the flavors dramatically. Always reserve a small portion of marinade (not used with raw chicken) to brush on the meat while cooking for extra flavor and shine.
Lastly, consider garnishing your finished dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. These simple additions add freshness, a pop of color, and a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, depending on your mood and the occasion.
For a classic pairing, serve it over a bed of steamed white rice or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for a vibrant, nutritious meal.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, consider serving the teriyaki chicken with cauliflower rice or a crisp Asian slaw. It’s also fantastic tucked into lettuce wraps with a sprinkle of shredded carrots and a drizzle of spicy mayo.
If you’re entertaining, create a build-your-own teriyaki bowl station. Offer different bases like rice, noodles, and greens along with a selection of toppings like pickled vegetables, edamame, and extra sauce. It’s interactive, fun, and allows guests to customize their plates.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best parts about making Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki is how adaptable it is. You can easily tweak the recipe based on what’s available or your dietary preferences.
For a spicier kick, add some Sriracha or a few dashes of chili oil to the marinade. If you prefer a tangier flavor, a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime can brighten up the sauce beautifully.
You can swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. However, keep in mind that breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
Want to add more veggies? Toss some pineapple chunks, sliced onions, or bell peppers on the griddle alongside the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll soak up some of that delicious teriyaki flavor and provide a wonderful contrast.
Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or even meal-prepping lunches for the week ahead, Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki fits the bill. It’s quick to prepare, cooks in under 10 minutes, and has a flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
The portability of the Blackstone griddle also means you can take this recipe on the road. It’s perfect for tailgating, camping trips, or beach barbecues where you want an easy but satisfying meal that feels a little special.
Meal prepping? This chicken stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days and can be reheated without losing its juicy tenderness. It’s great on salads, in wraps, or simply reheated with a side of veggies and rice.
Conclusion
Blackstone Chicken Teriyaki is the kind of recipe that effortlessly combines simplicity with sensational flavor. It captures the beloved teriyaki taste we all know and love, while the Blackstone griddle cooking method elevates it with a rich smokiness and perfect char. With just a few pantry staples, a handful of minutes, and a trusty griddle, you can create a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and versatile enough for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned Blackstone user or just beginning your griddle cooking journey, this recipe is a must-try. Its ease, adaptability, and universally appealing flavors make it a staple you’ll come back to again and again. Add it to your weekly rotation, serve it up at your next barbecue, or whip it up for a busy weeknight dinner—you won’t be disappointed!