Fried chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—is a comfort food that many love. But frying it indoors can get messy, with grease splattering and the lingering smell. Enter the Blackstone griddle, a versatile outdoor cooking tool that has gained popularity for its ability to handle everything from breakfast to fried delights. In this article, we’ll explore how you can make mouthwatering fried chicken on a Blackstone griddle, walking through the steps, tips, and variations for success. Along the way, we’ll uncover expert techniques to help you achieve perfectly crispy chicken, all while keeping your kitchen clean. Ready to fry up some fun? Let’s get started!
Understanding the Blackstone Griddle
What Is a Blackstone Griddle?
A Blackstone griddle is a flat-top grill designed for outdoor cooking. Unlike traditional grills with grates, the Blackstone features a smooth, solid surface, making it perfect for cooking foods that might otherwise slip through the cracks—like pancakes, vegetables, and, yes, fried chicken. Available in various sizes, this griddle uses propane burners to create even heat, ensuring consistent cooking results.
Its large surface area lets you cook for a crowd, making it a favorite for backyard gatherings. But the real star? Its ability to replicate the experience of cooking in a professional kitchen, right in your backyard. Plus, its versatility means you can fry chicken and sauté sides like veggies or potatoes, all in one go.
Why Use a Blackstone Griddle for Fried Chicken?
Cooking fried chicken on a Blackstone griddle offers several advantages. First, it’s an outdoor-friendly solution—no more dealing with oil splatters and lingering grease smells in your kitchen. Second, its wide surface makes it easy to heat a cast iron skillet or oil pan evenly, ensuring your chicken cooks to perfection.
Moreover, the griddle’s ability to handle high heat is crucial for frying. With proper setup, you can achieve crispy chicken while keeping the frying mess outside. Whether you’re using a cast iron pan for traditional deep frying or opting for a shallow frying technique directly on the griddle, the Blackstone makes it easy to experiment and customize your cooking.
Preparing to Make Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle
Essential Equipment and Tools
To make perfect fried chicken on a Blackstone griddle, having the right tools at your side is non-negotiable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A cast iron skillet or grease pan: This ensures even heating and retains the oil at the right temperature.
- Cooking thermometer: Monitoring oil temperature is critical for frying success. Keeping it between 350°F and 375°F is key to getting crispy chicken without burning it.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon: These tools make flipping and removing chicken easy without damaging the coating.
- Paper towels or a wire rack: Draining excess oil helps maintain that coveted crunch.
These items may already be in your kitchen, but using them on a Blackstone griddle transforms outdoor cooking into a fun and mess-free experience.
Ingredients for Success
What’s the secret to amazing fried chicken? It’s all about the ingredients. Start with quality chicken—legs, thighs, wings, or breasts. For the crispiest results, use a mix of flour and cornstarch in your breading. Add buttermilk for a tender, flavorful soak before frying, and don’t skimp on seasonings! A blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne creates a bold flavor profile.
The type of oil matters, too. Peanut oil or vegetable oil works best for frying because they have high smoke points and won’t break down at high temperatures. Make sure to have enough oil to submerge the chicken completely for even cooking.
Safety Tips for Griddle Cooking
When working with hot oil on a Blackstone griddle, safety is essential. Always place the griddle on a level surface to prevent spills. Use heat-resistant gloves to handle hot pans, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby—just in case. Finally, avoid overcrowding the pan; frying chicken in small batches ensures consistent cooking and helps maintain the oil’s temperature.
With your tools, ingredients, and safety measures ready, you’re set to create a fried chicken masterpiece. But how exactly do you cook it? Let’s break it down step-by-step in the next section.
How to Make Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle: Step-by-Step Guide
Prepping the Chicken
Before you even heat the griddle, preparation is key. Start by washing and patting the chicken dry—this helps the coating stick better. Trim any excess fat, then slice large pieces into manageable portions if needed. Next, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least an hour (overnight is even better). The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds flavor, ensuring juicy bites every time.
While the chicken marinates, mix your breading. Combine flour, cornstarch, and your preferred seasonings in a large bowl. Coat the marinated chicken evenly, pressing the mixture onto the surface for extra crunch.
Setting Up the Griddle
Now it’s time to fire up the Blackstone griddle. Preheat it to medium-high heat, and place your cast iron skillet or grease pan on the surface. Add enough oil to the skillet to fully submerge the chicken, and let it heat until it reaches 350°F. A thermometer will help you monitor this step—too hot, and the chicken burns; too cool, and it turns soggy.
Cooking the Chicken
Carefully place your coated chicken into the hot oil using tongs. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this drops the oil temperature and results in uneven cooking. Fry the chicken in small batches, flipping occasionally to ensure an even golden-brown crust. Each batch should take about 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. For food safety, it should reach 165°F at the thickest part. Once done, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Post-Cooking Care and Clean-Up
Once you’ve cooked your fried chicken, it’s time to wrap things up. Let the oil cool completely before disposing of it. If you plan to reuse the oil, strain it to remove leftover crumbs. Wipe down the Blackstone griddle with a damp cloth to remove grease splatters, and don’t forget to clean your skillet thoroughly.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle
Seasoning Secrets
One of the best ways to elevate your fried chicken game is by mastering the art of seasoning. A well-balanced seasoning mix ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. To achieve this, use a blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne for heat. Don’t forget to season both the chicken and the breading—this double-layer approach locks in flavor at every stage.
For added depth, consider marinating your chicken overnight in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and a touch of salt. This step not only tenderizes the chicken but also creates a subtle, tangy undertone that pairs beautifully with the crispy crust.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Noticed your coating isn’t sticking? Ensure the chicken is dry before breading, and don’t skip the buttermilk soak—it acts as a glue for the flour mixture. Is your chicken turning out soggy? The oil might be too cool. Always check that the temperature stays between 350°F and 375°F.
Another frequent issue is uneven cooking. This can happen if your oil isn’t deep enough or the chicken pieces are too large. To avoid this, fry smaller pieces or use a thermometer to confirm they’ve reached 165°F internally. With these tips, you’ll confidently answer the question, Can you make fried chicken on a Blackstone griddle? with a resounding “Yes!”
Variations of Fried Chicken Recipes on a Blackstone Griddle
How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle
If there’s a classic variation to try on your Blackstone griddle, it’s buttermilk fried chicken. The buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the breading stick perfectly. Begin by soaking the chicken in buttermilk mixed with a splash of hot sauce. Coat it in a seasoned flour mix, then fry until golden brown. The result? A perfectly crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful center.
Spicy Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Grill
For those who like a kick, spicy fried chicken is a must. Add cayenne, chili powder, or hot paprika to your flour mixture for a bold punch. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix some hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade for an extra layer of heat.
Crispy Chicken Wings Cooked on a Blackstone Griddle
Looking to switch things up? Chicken wings are a fantastic choice for your Blackstone griddle. They’re smaller, cook faster, and absorb flavors beautifully. Use the same steps as for larger cuts, but reduce the frying time. Wings are perfect for game day or as an appetizer.
Suggestion for Readers:
For more recipes to expand your cooking repertoire, check out the Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice Recipe on Kamala Recipes. It’s another exciting way to utilize your Blackstone griddle!
FAQs About Making Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle
Can You Make Crispy Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle Without a Pan?
Yes, you can! While using a cast iron skillet or grease pan is the most common method, you can fry chicken directly on the griddle surface. For this technique, keep the heat medium-high, and shallow fry the chicken in oil, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking. However, be mindful that this approach might not yield the same deep-fried crispiness as using a skillet. If you’re short on tools, this method still gets the job done, answering the age-old question: Can you make fried chicken on a Blackstone griddle?
What Temperature Is Best for Frying Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle?
Oil temperature is crucial. It should consistently stay between 350°F and 375°F for perfect frying. Too low, and your chicken turns greasy; too high, and the crust burns before the inside cooks. A cooking thermometer is your best friend for maintaining that sweet spot.
How Do You Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature While Cooking?
The secret is to fry in small batches and allow the oil to recover between batches. Overcrowding cools the oil quickly. Monitor the temperature regularly with a thermometer to ensure crispy, golden chicken.
Can You Reuse Cooking Oil After Frying Chicken on a Blackstone?
Yes, as long as it’s strained to remove crumbs and stored properly. Always check for signs of oil degradation, like a burnt smell or dark color, before reusing.
Final Thoughts on Making Fried Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle
Summarizing the Experience
Can you make fried chicken on a Blackstone griddle? Absolutely! With its even heating, outdoor convenience, and versatility, the Blackstone griddle is a fantastic tool for frying up golden, crispy chicken. Whether you’re using a cast iron skillet or trying shallow frying directly on the griddle, you can create restaurant-quality chicken without the indoor mess.
This guide walked you through the tools, preparation, and frying techniques needed to succeed. From mastering oil temperature to experimenting with variations like buttermilk or spicy chicken, the possibilities are endless.
Encouragement to Experiment
The beauty of cooking on a Blackstone griddle is its flexibility. After you’ve mastered fried chicken, why not try your hand at other recipes like chicken wings or even stir-fried dishes? The key is to embrace the process, enjoy the flavors, and make it your own.
For more inspiration, check out other griddle-friendly recipes online. With the right tips and a bit of practice, you’ll soon be the go-to grill master in your circle. So fire up your Blackstone and start cooking—you’ve got this!
