How to Make Philly Cheese Chicken on a Blackstone Griddle
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle brings an entirely new level of excitement to meal preparation. It’s not just about creating a delicious dish—it’s about the experience. The sizzling sound, the beautiful browning of ingredients, and the joy of cooking with family or friends make it an unforgettable event. One dish that brings together all these elements beautifully is Philly Cheese Chicken. Combining tender chicken, melty cheese, and flavorful sautéed vegetables, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy. When made on a Blackstone griddle, this dish is taken to new heights. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make Philly Cheese Chicken on a Blackstone griddle that will have your taste buds thanking you!
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need to create the perfect Philly Cheese Chicken on your Blackstone griddle. Preparation is key to ensuring the final dish is both flavorful and well-executed. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and tools you’ll need:
Ingredients
To make a delicious Philly Cheese Chicken, you’ll need a few basic yet essential ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for easy cooking. Both options work well, but breasts tend to be leaner while thighs offer more juiciness and flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers (red, green, yellow) not only add flavor but also give the dish a vibrant look.
- Onions: Yellow onions are the classic choice, adding a natural sweetness when cooked.
- Mushrooms (optional): While not traditional, mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella cheese is often used, but feel free to explore other varieties like cheddar or Swiss for a unique twist.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and optional paprika or chili flakes will bring the flavors together. Season generously to ensure the chicken and veggies are flavorful.
- Oil or Butter: You’ll need oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Butter adds extra richness, so it’s a great choice for added flavor.
Tools
In addition to the ingredients, you’ll need a few tools to cook your Philly Cheese Chicken:
- Blackstone Griddle: This is the star of the show. Whether you’re using a 17-inch or a 36-inch model, it provides the perfect surface for cooking your Philly Cheese Chicken.
- Spatula: A wide spatula will help you flip and move ingredients around the griddle easily.
- Tongs: Use tongs for handling the chicken and vegetables without disturbing the griddle surface.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the chicken, veggies, and any additional toppings.
- Measuring Spoons: To ensure you’re using the right amount of seasoning.
By ensuring you have all the right ingredients and tools, you set yourself up for success and make the process smooth and efficient.
Preparing Your Philly Cheese Chicken Ingredients
Now that you’ve gathered everything you need, it’s time to start prepping the ingredients. Proper prep ensures that each element of the dish cooks evenly and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 1: Slice and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips. This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly, allowing it to absorb the seasonings better. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes. Seasoning your chicken is crucial for bringing out its natural flavor, so don’t be afraid to add extra seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
Next, slice the bell peppers and onions. Thin slices are key because they will cook faster and caramelize beautifully on the griddle. If you’re adding mushrooms, slice them up as well. Mushrooms can sometimes release moisture, so keep an eye on them to avoid excess liquid on the griddle.
Step 3: Organize Your Ingredients
Having everything prepped and within reach ensures a smooth cooking experience. Organize your ingredients into separate bowls or plates, making it easy to access each component as you move through the cooking process. This organization also helps prevent unnecessary delays and keeps your cooking area clean.
Grilling on the Blackstone Griddle: Step-by-Step
Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to fire up your Blackstone griddle and start cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the best Philly Cheese Chicken you’ve ever had.
Step 1: Preheat the Griddle
Before anything goes onto the griddle, make sure to preheat it. Turn the burners to medium-high and let the griddle heat for 5-10 minutes. You want it hot enough so the chicken sears properly without sticking. Add a generous amount of oil or butter to the griddle to coat the surface evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken strips onto the griddle in a single layer. Allow the chicken to cook for 5-7 minutes without moving it around too much, so it can achieve a nice golden-brown sear. Stir occasionally to make sure all pieces cook through. You’ll know the chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
While the chicken cooks, it’s time to sauté your veggies. Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms (if using) to the griddle. Stir them every few minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. This should take around 5 minutes. If you want them to soften more, you can cover them with a lid for a minute or two.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Veggies
Once both the chicken and veggies are cooked, mix them together on the griddle. This helps meld the flavors and ensures that every bite is a perfect combination of chicken, peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Now comes the best part—melting the cheese. Lay slices of provolone or mozzarella over the chicken and veggie mixture. Let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes, covering the griddle with a lid if you have one. This will result in a gooey, cheesy layer that brings the dish to life.
How to Serve Your Philly Cheese Chicken
Now that your Philly Cheese Chicken is ready, it’s time to decide how you want to serve it. This versatile dish works well in a variety of forms, so choose what suits your style!
Classic Philly Cheese Chicken Sandwich
Toast up some hoagie rolls or sandwich buns and pile your cheesy chicken and veggie mixture inside. Top with a few extra slices of cheese for that extra indulgent touch. You’ll get a crispy, melty sandwich that’s packed with flavor.
Philly Cheese Chicken Bowl
For a low-carb alternative, serve the Philly Cheese Chicken over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes. This makes for a hearty, filling meal that still packs all the deliciousness of the original dish, without the bread.
With a Side of Fries or Chips
No meal is complete without a side, and fries or chips go perfectly with Philly Cheese Chicken. They add a crunchy contrast to the soft, cheesy chicken and veggies, making the meal even more satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Philly Cheese Chicken
Even experienced cooks can fall into a few traps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Philly Cheese Chicken on your Blackstone griddle:
- Overcrowding the Griddle: If you try to cook too much at once, the chicken and veggies won’t cook properly. It’s better to cook in batches if needed.
- Not Using Enough Oil: A dry griddle will cause your food to stick, leading to uneven cooking. Be generous with the oil or butter.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken and veggies! Seasoning enhances the natural flavors and ensures the dish isn’t bland.
- Not Preheating the Griddle: Always preheat your griddle for the best sear on your chicken. This step helps lock in juices and creates that perfect golden crust.
Nutritional Information for Philly Cheese Chicken
For those looking to keep track of nutritional content, here’s an approximate breakdown of what to expect from a serving of Philly Cheese Chicken:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 per serving |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
The nutritional content may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use, but this gives you a solid idea of what to expect.
FAQ: Your Philly Cheese Chicken Questions Answered
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. They work perfectly in this dish, just make sure they’re boneless and skinless.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready, just reheat on the griddle and melt the cheese for a quick and easy meal.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Definitely! While provolone and mozzarella are the go-to cheeses, feel free to use cheddar, gouda, or even Swiss for a unique twist.
Conclusion: Time to Enjoy Your Philly Cheese Chicken
Now that you have everything you need to make Philly Cheese Chicken on a Blackstone griddle, it’s time to get cooking! With its tender chicken, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a sandwich, a bowl, or with a side of fries, it’s the ultimate comfort food that brings joy to every meal. So grab your griddle, fire it up, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious creation. Happy cooking!