The Allure of Griddle-Cooked Chicken Fried Rice
Let’s be honest—chicken fried rice on Blackstone is one of those dishes that you crave every now and then, right? Tossing it on a Blackstone griddle takes this classic to a whole new level! Cooking chicken fried rice on a griddle isn’t just about making a meal—it’s about the experience. Picture this: the sizzling sound of rice hitting the hot surface, the aroma of garlic and soy sauce wafting through the air, and that perfect charred edge that’s impossible to replicate in a regular pan. Mouthwatering, isn’t it?
What really sets griddle-cooked fried rice apart is the combination of high heat and ample cooking space. You can spread out the ingredients, allowing them to caramelize beautifully without overcrowding. This means your rice stays fluffy, your chicken sears perfectly, and every bite has that signature smoky flavor (a.k.a. “wok hei”) that you usually only get from your favorite takeout spot.
Plus, cooking on a griddle is a social event! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a backyard party, everyone loves watching the process. It’s like being your own hibachi chef—without the pressure of flipping shrimp into hats (unless you want to, of course).
Why Choose a Blackstone Griddle for This Dish?
If you’ve never cooked on a Blackstone griddle before, let me just say, you’re in for a treat. First off, the sheer size of the cooking surface makes it a no-brainer for chicken fried rice. Unlike a stovetop pan, the Blackstone griddle gives you enough room to cook everything at once: chicken, veggies, eggs, and rice. No need to juggle multiple pans or batches. It’s all right there in front of you.
Then there’s the heat control. The griddle’s flat-top design evenly distributes heat across the surface, so you don’t end up with hot spots or undercooked bits. That means your chicken gets a gorgeous golden crust while your rice gets that light, crispy texture that’s just chef’s kiss.
Oh, and cleanup? A breeze. Since the griddle is flat and wide, scraping off stuck bits and wiping it down is much easier than dealing with a pile of greasy pans. Plus, you can add water to the hot surface to deglaze it—fancy, right?
Lastly, let’s talk versatility. With a Blackstone griddle, you can throw down some extra proteins (shrimp, steak, or even tofu) or whip up side dishes like garlic noodles or fried eggs, all on the same surface. It’s like having a portable restaurant-grade setup right in your backyard. So, yeah, if you’re serious about upping your fried rice game, the Blackstone griddle is the way to go!
Basic Ingredients and Preparation Method Chicken Fried Rice on Blackstone
Cooking chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle starts with nailing the prep work. Let’s face it: the better organized you are, the smoother (and more fun) your cooking process will be. From picking the right ingredients to prepping them for the griddle, this section breaks it all down.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before you fire up the griddle, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got everything ready to go. Fried rice is all about balance—each ingredient adds its own flavor, texture, and color to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy and flavorful, but chicken breast works too if you prefer a leaner option.
- Rice: Day-old, cooked white rice (jasmine or long-grain) is key. Fresh rice will clump together and turn mushy.
- Vegetables: Classic options include diced carrots, peas, and onions, but feel free to throw in bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini if you’re feeling creative.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs add a nice richness to the dish.
- Soy Sauce: Go for regular soy sauce for flavor and a splash of dark soy sauce for that deeper color (optional but recommended).
- Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle nuttiness that ties everything together.
- Garlic and Ginger: Minced garlic and ginger are your flavor powerhouses. Don’t skip these!
- Cooking Oil: Use a neutral oil like canola, avocado, or vegetable oil for the high heat.
- Optional Add-Ons: Toss in some chopped green onions, pineapple chunks, or even a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Ingredients for preparing fried rice with chicken on Blackstone
Prep work is the secret to fried rice success. Because everything cooks quickly on the griddle, having your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go is non-negotiable. Here’s how to get started:
The Importance of Using Day-Old Rice
This might be the most crucial tip. Day-old rice is drier and firmer, which helps it crisp up on the griddle. If you don’t have leftovers, don’t panic—cook fresh rice and spread it out on a baking sheet to cool in the fridge for at least an hour. Trust me, this little step makes all the difference.
Marinating the Chicken for Optimal Taste
Want juicy, flavorful chicken? A quick marinade will do the trick. Combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil in a bowl, and let the chicken sit for at least 15–20 minutes. (Pro tip: If you have time, let it marinate for a few hours in the fridge for even more flavor.)
Chopping Veggies and Prepping Extras
Dice your vegetables into small, uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set them aside. Have all your sauces, oils, and seasonings within arm’s reach. This way, you’re not scrambling (pun intended) while your rice is sizzling on the griddle.
With everything prepped, you’re ready to move on to the cooking process. (Spoiler alert: It’s gonna be quick, so make sure that griddle is fired up and ready to go!)
Step-by-Step Chicken Fried Rice on Blackstone Cooking Guide
Alright, here’s where the magic happens! Cooking chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle is fast-paced, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll feel like a pro hibachi chef. Let’s break it down step by step.
Setting Up Your Blackstone Griddle
Before you start tossing rice and veggies, make sure your griddle is ready for action.
Preheating and Choosing the Right Oil
First things first, preheat your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear but not so hot that things burn before they cook through. A good rule of thumb? Splash a few drops of water on the griddle—if they sizzle and evaporate immediately, you’re good to go.
Next, add a generous amount of oil (about 2–3 tablespoons) to the surface. Use a high-smoke-point oil like canola, avocado, or vegetable oil to handle the griddle’s intense heat. Avoid olive oil since it burns too quickly.
Cooking the Chicken Chicken Fried Rice on Blackstone
Start with the chicken since it takes the longest to cook.
Achieving the Perfect Sear
Spread your marinated chicken pieces evenly on the hot griddle. You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle—that’s your cue that the griddle is doing its job! Let the chicken sit for a minute or two without moving it to develop a nice golden crust. Then, flip and cook the other side until the pieces are cooked through (internal temp of 165°F). Once done, push the chicken to a cooler zone or a side area of the griddle to keep warm.
Cooking the Veggies and Rice
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
Sautéing Vegetables to Perfection
Add another splash of oil to the griddle if needed, and toss on your diced veggies (onions, carrots, peas, etc.). Stir them frequently using a spatula, letting them cook until they’re slightly softened but still have a bit of crunch—about 3–4 minutes. If you’re adding garlic and ginger, toss them in now for that aromatic boost.
Adding Rice and Mixing it All Together
Next, spread your cooled, day-old rice across the griddle. Use your spatulas to break up any clumps and ensure even heating. Add a drizzle of soy sauce (and dark soy sauce if using) over the rice for flavor and color, then stir to coat.
Once the rice is warmed through, mix it with the sautéed veggies. Keep stirring and flipping the mixture to combine everything evenly.
The Final Touches
Here’s where it all comes together!
Scrambling the Eggs
Make a little space on the griddle, add a touch more oil, and pour in the beaten eggs. Let them set slightly, then scramble them using your spatula. Once the eggs are cooked, mix them into the rice and veggie blend.
Reuniting the Chicken with the Rice
Finally, grab the cooked chicken from earlier and toss it into the rice mixture. Give everything a good stir to combine. At this point, taste your fried rice and adjust the seasoning—add a pinch of salt, a splash more soy sauce, or a drizzle of sesame oil if needed.
Serving Your Masterpiece
Your chicken fried rice is ready to plate! Garnish it with chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or even a dash of sriracha if you like a little heat. Serve it straight off the griddle for that freshly cooked vibe everyone loves.
With this step-by-step guide, you’ve turned simple ingredients into an impressive, restaurant-style dish—all from the comfort of your backyard. Ready to take it a step further? In the next part, we’ll explore ways to customize your fried rice to make it truly your own.
Tips to Customize Chicken Fried Rice on Blackstone
One of the best things about making chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle is how easy it is to tweak the recipe to fit your cravings or dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, experimenting with new flavors, or just trying to clean out the fridge, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Let’s dive into some fun ways to make this dish your own!
Adding Protein Variations from Chicken Fried Rice on Blackstone
Chicken is a classic, but it’s not the only option. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
Shrimp Fried Rice
Shrimp cooks super quickly on a Blackstone griddle, making it a great protein choice. Marinate peeled and deveined shrimp in garlic and soy sauce, then sear them for 2–3 minutes per side before mixing them into your rice.
Steak or Pork Fried Rice
If you’ve got leftover steak or pork, slice it thin and toss it on the griddle with some sesame oil and soy sauce for a flavorful twist. For a heartier bite, cube the meat and sear it alongside the veggies.
Vegetarian or Vegan Options
Skip the meat altogether and load up on extra veggies like mushrooms, broccoli, or tofu. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with scrambled tofu or leave them out entirely. You can even add chickpeas for a boost of plant-based protein.
Incorporating Unique Flavors
Want to take your fried rice to the next level? Try these flavor boosters:
Spice Things Up
If you like heat, mix in chili flakes, sriracha, or diced jalapeños. Sambal oelek (a spicy chili paste) is another great option for adding some kick.
Sweet and Savory Combos
Add a tropical twist by tossing in pineapple chunks or a splash of teriyaki sauce. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory soy sauce and garlic.
International Twists
- Thai-Inspired Fried Rice: Swap the soy sauce for fish sauce and lime juice, then toss in some fresh basil for a bright, fragrant dish.
- Korean-Inspired Fried Rice: Add a dollop of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and sesame oil for bold, smoky flavors.
Adding Crunch and Garnishes
Sometimes, it’s the little extras that take your dish from good to amazing.
Crunchy Additions
For some added texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts, cashews, or fried shallots over your fried rice. You can also toss in bean sprouts right at the end for a fresh, crunchy bite.
Fresh Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Chopped green onions, cilantro, or a drizzle of sesame oil can brighten the dish. Want to get fancy? Add a fried egg on top and let the yolk run into the rice for extra richness.
Adjusting for Dietary Preferences
Whether you’re watching calories or carbs, there are easy swaps to make this dish work for you:
Low-Carb Fried Rice
Replace white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. It cooks similarly, but be careful not to overcook—it only needs a few minutes to soften.
Healthy Ingredient Swaps
- Use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
- Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on salt.
- Load up on extra veggies like spinach or kale to sneak in more nutrients.
Making It a One-Pan Meal
The beauty of cooking on a griddle is that you can do it all in one spot. Add side dishes right on the griddle—think grilled asparagus, zucchini, or even garlic bread for a fun fusion twist.
FAQ and Conclusion
To wrap things up, let’s answer some of the most common questions about making chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle. Plus, I’ll leave you with a quick recap and some encouragement to give this recipe a try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some popular questions people ask when cooking chicken fried rice on a griddle:
How long does it take to cook chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle?
From start to finish, cooking chicken fried rice on a Blackstone griddle usually takes about 15–20 minutes. That includes cooking the chicken, sautéing the veggies, and mixing everything together. Prep time adds another 10–15 minutes, depending on how fast you chop!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Frozen chicken will release water as it thaws on the griddle, which can make your fried rice soggy. For best results, defrost the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
How do I make chicken fried rice healthier?
Use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of white rice to increase fiber and cut down on carbs. Swap out regular soy sauce for low-sodium soy sauce, and load up on fresh veggies like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Can I cook this dish with leftover fried rice?
Absolutely! Leftover fried rice works perfectly—it’s already firm and dry, making it even easier to crisp up on the griddle. Just make sure your rice hasn’t been sitting in the fridge for more than a few days to avoid spoilage.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Double-check that any other sauces or seasonings you use are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
And there you have it—everything you need to know to make delicious chicken fried rice on your Blackstone griddle! With its smoky flavor, crispy textures, and endless customization options, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests at a backyard cookout.
Whether you keep it classic or experiment with new ingredients, the griddle’s large surface and even heat make cooking chicken fried rice fun, fast, and downright delicious. So, fire up your Blackstone, grab your spatulas, and get ready to wow your family and friends.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to snap a picture of your masterpiece before everyone digs in. Trust me, it’s Instagram-worthy!
Now it’s your turn—get out there and give this recipe a try. I promise it’ll become a go-to in your household!