Ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering about the perfect cooking time for bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle? Join the club; this culinary puzzle stumped me, too. Let’s find out how long it takes to cook bone-in chicken thighs on blackstone griddle?

Recognizing that cooking duration deeply impacts our beloved chicken’s juiciness and flavor, I decided to dig deeper into my foodie research. In this article, you’ll glean insights on mastering prep techniques, unraveling ideal cook times and temperatures, cracking the secret to crispy skin, and even discovering mouth-watering serving suggestions for your grilled chicken thighs.

So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to make those killer bone-in chicken thighs!

Key Takeaways

• Choose high-quality bone-in chicken thighs and ensure they are safely defrosted.
• Select a Blackstone griddle that is large enough to fit all your chicken thighs without overcrowding them.
• Preheat the griddle to medium – high heat and grease the surface before placing the chicken on it.
• Cook the bone-in chicken thighs for 10–15 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Preparing Bone-In Chicken Thighs for the Blackstone Griddle

To prepare bone-in chicken thighs for the Blackstone griddle, start by choosing high-quality chicken and ensuring it is safely defrosted. Then, select the right Blackstone griddle for your needs and set it up according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Don’t forget to season your chicken thighs with your preferred spices or rubs before placing them on the preheated griddle.

Why bone-in chicken thighs are a great option

Bone-in chicken thighs earn their spot as a top choice in grilling circles due to several irrefutable advantages. They are known for their rich, juicy flavor that stems from the bones and marbling of the meat itself.

This combination not only guarantees an unbeatable taste but also makes these thighs harder to overcook compared to boneless varieties. Bone-in chicken thighs are less expensive than boneless alternatives, making them a great option for cost-conscious foodies who love hearty meals.

Their ability to withstand longer cooking times allows them to absorb those deep, smoky flavors we all crave from grilled dishes. Furthermore, they yield crispy skins—a sought-after delight among barbecue enthusiasts! Finally yet importantly, it’s this same feature that ensures even distribution of heat during cooking on your Blackstone Griddle—perfectly balancing texture and flavor in every bite.

Choosing the right Blackstone griddle

To cook bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle, it’s important to choose the right griddle for the job. Look for a griddle that is large enough to fit all your chicken thighs without overcrowding them.

A larger cooking surface will give you more space to work with and ensure even cooking. Additionally, consider getting a griddle with adjustable temperature controls so you can easily maintain the heat needed for perfectly cooked chicken.

Look for a durable and easy-to-clean griddle made of high-quality materials that will last through many cooking sessions.

Setting up your Blackstone griddle

To set up your Blackstone griddle for cooking bone-in chicken thighs, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the griddle: Fire up your Blackstone griddle and preheat it to medium-high heat.
2. Grease the surface: Brush the griddle surface with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Place a heat-resistant mat: If you’re concerned about potential damage to your countertop or outdoor surface, place a heat-resistant mat underneath the griddle.
4. Adjust the temperature control: Make sure the temperature control knobs are set according to your desired cooking temperature.
5. Close the lid: For more even cooking, close the lid of the griddle while preheating and cooking.
6. Check for hot spots: Before placing chicken thighs on the griddle, check for any hot spots by sprinkling a few drops of water across the surface. If they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s a sign of an even temperature.
7. Arrange chicken thighs: Place bone-in chicken thighs skin-side down on the preheated griddle, ensuring they have enough space between them for even cooking.
8. Cook until golden brown: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown on one side before flipping.
9. Flip and cook evenly: Use tongs to carefully flip each thigh and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
10. Check internal temperature: To ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a meat thermometer to measure its internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) before being removed from the griddle.

Seasoning Options

To enhance the flavor of your bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle, here are some seasoning options to consider:

1. Marinades: Try marinating the chicken thighs in your choice of marinade before cooking. Options include teriyaki, barbecue, lemon herb, or spicy chili.
2. Dry Rubs: Create a flavorful dry rub by combining herbs and spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Massage the rub onto the chicken thighs before placing them on the griddle.
3. Herb Infusion: Mix fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, oregano, and parsley with olive oil or melted butter. Brush this mixture onto the chicken thighs while they cook for an added burst of flavor.
4. Citrus Zest: Grate the zest from lemons, limes, or oranges and sprinkle it over the chicken thighs during cooking to add a tangy twist.
5. Seasoning Blends: Use pre-made seasoning blends like Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, or poultry seasoning for quick and convenient flavoring.

The Perfect Cooking Time for Bone-In Chicken Thighs

When it comes to cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle, getting the perfect cooking time is key. Read on to discover the ideal temperature, cooking time, and how to avoid undercooking or overcooking your chicken thighs.

Ideal temperature

The ideal temperature for cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle is 375°F. This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through evenly while also allowing the skin to become crispy and delicious.

It is important to preheat your griddle before cooking to ensure that it reaches the desired temperature. Cooking at this ideal temperature will result in juicy, tender chicken thighs with a flavorful outer crust.

To achieve this ideal temperature, you can use a thermometer to check the surface of the griddle or adjust the heat according to your griddle’s settings. Remember, maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process is key to ensuring perfectly cooked bone-in chicken thighs every time.

Cooking time

Bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle typically require about 10–15 minutes per side to cook. It’s important to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to close the griddle lid while cooking. Start by placing the chicken skin-side down and cooking for approximately 5-7 minutes before flipping.

Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the chicken is fully cooked through. Bone-in thighs take longer than boneless, skinless thighs, and cooking times may vary depending on their size and thickness.

For better control, try cooking the chicken on the cooler side of the griddle surface. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes (about 2½ minutes per side) until reaching the desired internal temperature.

Avoiding undercooking or overcooking

To avoid undercooking or overcooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle, it’s crucial to follow the recommended cooking time and temperature. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which ensures that it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature accurately.

Additionally, make sure to cook the chicken with the griddle lid closed for even heat distribution. This will help prevent any hot spots and ensure that each thigh cooks evenly. Remember to flip the thighs after cooking them skin-side down for 5-7 minutes, and then continue cooking for another 5 minutes per side until they reach the desired internal temperature.

Achieving Crispy Skin

By now, I hope you know how long to cook bone-in chicken thighs on blackstone griddle! Let’s move forward.

To achieve crispy skin on bone-in chicken thighs cooked on the Blackstone griddle, there are a few techniques you can try. Brining the chicken before cooking helps to retain moisture and enhance flavor, while also ensuring that the skin crisps up nicely.

Additionally, using spices and rubs on the chicken adds extra flavor and creates a delicious crust when grilled. Finally, rubbing the chicken with oil or marinating it before grilling can help create that sought-after crispiness you desire.

Brining

Brining is a great technique to use when cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle. Brining involves soaking the chicken in a solution of water, salt, and sometimes other flavors like herbs or spices.

This process helps to season the meat from the inside out and also helps to keep it juicy and tender during cooking. To brine your chicken thighs, simply mix together water and salt until the salt dissolves, then add any additional flavorings you desire.

Place the chicken thighs in the brine solution for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before cooking them on your Blackstone griddle.

By brining your chicken thighs before griddling them, you’ll enhance their flavor while also ensuring they stay moist throughout the cooking process. The salt in the brine will help to break down muscle fibers, resulting in tender meat that’s full of delicious seasoning.

Spices and rubs

I love experimenting with different spices and rubs when cooking bone-in chicken thighs on the Blackstone griddle. Here are some flavorful options to try:

1. Cajun seasoning: Give your chicken thighs a spicy kick with a Cajun seasoning blend. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and other herbs and spices will add depth of flavor to your dish.
2. Lemon pepper rub: For a citrusy and zesty flavor, try a lemon pepper rub. The tanginess of lemon combined with the warmth of black pepper creates a delicious marinade for your chicken thighs.
3. Garlic and herb marinade: Create a simple yet delicious marinade by combining minced garlic, dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano, salt, and olive oil. This will infuse your chicken with aromatic flavors.
4. Barbecue spice rub: If you’re craving that classic smoky barbecue taste, use a barbecue spice rub on your chicken thighs. A mixture of brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder will give your chicken that irresistible charred flavor.
5. Teriyaki glaze: For an Asian-inspired twist, brush your chicken thighs with a teriyaki glaze while cooking. This sweet and savory glaze adds an exotic touch to your dish.

Oil and marinade

To enhance the flavor and juiciness of your bone-in chicken thighs, consider using oil and marinade. Here are some options to try:

• Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil before seasoning them. This will help prevent sticking to the griddle and add a light, savory taste.
• Marinade the chicken thighs in a mixture of your choice. Try a marinade with lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices for a tangy and aromatic flavor.
• For a smoky twist, use a barbecue sauce marinade. Let the chicken thighs soak in the sauce for at least an hour before cooking for maximum flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the perfectly cooked bone-in chicken thighs with a variety of delicious side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes. Enhance the flavors even further by offering a range of tasty sauces like barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or garlic butter.

Side Dishes

When cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle, it’s important to consider the side dishes that will complement the flavorful main course. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside your perfectly cooked chicken thighs:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, and onions in olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on the griddle. Cook until they are slightly charred and tender.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Cut potatoes into cubes and toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until golden brown and crispy.
3. Cornbread: Whip up a batch of homemade cornbread to serve as a comforting side dish. It pairs well with the smoky flavors of grilled chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A fresh and tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar, sugar, and spices adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
5. Baked Beans: Serve up some classic baked beans as a hearty side dish that complements the rich flavors of grilled chicken thighs.
6. Garlic Bread: Toast slices of crusty bread on the griddle until golden brown, then rub them with fresh garlic cloves for a fragrant side dish option.
7. Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your favorite dressing provides a light counterpart to the rich and savory chicken thighs.
8. Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge in comfort food by serving creamy macaroni and cheese alongside your grilled chicken thighs for a satisfying meal.

Sauces

I love serving bone-in chicken thighs on the Blackstone griddle with delicious sauces. Here are a few options to enhance the flavors:

1. Barbecue Sauce: Brush the cooked chicken thighs with a tangy and smoky barbecue sauce for that classic grilled flavor.
2. Teriyaki Glaze: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought teriyaki glaze over the chicken for a sweet and savory Asian-inspired twist.
3. Honey Mustard: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of vinegar to create a creamy and slightly tangy sauce that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
4. Chimichurri Sauce: Blend together fresh herbs like parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and some chili flakes to create a vibrant and zesty chimichurri sauce.
5. Buffalo Sauce: Toss the cooked chicken thighs in spicy buffalo sauce for those who crave some heat.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about how long to cook bone-in chicken thighs on a blackstone griddle.

1. What is the ideal cooking time for bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle?

To get tasty and juicy chicken thigh dishes, it usually takes around 10–15 minutes per side when cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle.

2. How often should I flip the chicken thighs on my grill or griddle?

Flipping your grilled bone-in chicken thighs about every 5 minutes helps them cook evenly without burning.

3. Does the temperature of my griddle affect how long I need to cook my bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes! The temperature of your griddle can change how long it takes to cook bone-in chicken thighs. A medium-high heat—around 350 degrees Fahrenheit—is best for getting crispy skin and ensuring juicy, fully cooked meat.

4. Can I use marinades or seasoning with this recipe?

Absolutely! Using a Blackstone griddle allows you plenty of options to create flavorful teriyaki, barbecue, or other seasoned grilled bone-in chicken thigh dishes according to taste preferences.

5. Is there any specific technique required while using a Blackstone Griddle for Chicken Thigh Recipes?

Blackstone griddles are optimized for even heating, making it simple to place marinated or seasoned chickens based upon preferred methods and timings, ensuring desired results from such stovetop girdle recipes!

6. Can we try these recipes on both standard and flat-top varieties of black stone grills and griddles ?

Definitely! Whether you are looking forward to cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a flat top grill or griddle, following the same instructions would result in equally delicious outcomes.

Conclusion

Cooking bone-in chicken thighs on a Blackstone griddle is a breeze once you know the right cooking time. Remember to cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

With these guidelines and a meat thermometer handy, you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked chicken thighs with crispy skin in no time.