This Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat full of sweet and smoky flavors. Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with a yummy peach and bourbon sauce that’s super simple to make!
I love firing up the grill for this dish because the aroma fills the air with a hint of summer! Serve it with grilled veggies for a colorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using wings or drumsticks for this recipe because the skin helps keep the chicken juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use skinless chicken thighs or boneless chicken breasts. They may cook differently, so adjust the cooking time.
Peaches: Fresh peaches make the sauce burst with flavor, but you can substitute with canned peaches in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid watering down the sauce.
Bourbon: For a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice or a combination of apple cider vinegar and extra brown sugar to replicate the sweetness and tang without alcohol. For something stronger, consider using a whiskey with a favorite flavor.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds depth, while cayenne gives a kick. If you want less heat, skip the cayenne or reduce the amount. You can also use chili powder instead of cayenne if that you have it on hand!
How Do I Get the Chicken Grill Just Right?
Grilling chicken requires a delicate balance of high heat and careful cooking. Here’s how to ensure it’s cooked perfectly every time:
- Preheat your grill properly to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken, locking in juices.
- Pat the chicken dry to promote browning and crisp skin. Season well with salt and pepper before grilling.
- Turn the chicken every 5 minutes to keep it cooking evenly and prevent burning. This also helps avoid flare-ups.
- Brush on that peach bourbon BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of grilling. This prevents the sugars from burning during the cooking process.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.
Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings or drumsticks, skin-on
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and chopped (about 1 large peach)
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil (for grilling)
- Green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare with an additional 30 minutes for cooking and simmering the sauce. In total, plan for about 40 minutes to enjoy this delicious grilled chicken!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, add the chopped fresh peaches and bourbon whiskey. Blend until smooth. Pour the peach-bourbon mixture into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a BBQ sauce consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Pat the chicken wings or drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly oil the grill grates or brush the chicken lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken onto the preheated grill. Grill for about 20-25 minutes total, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. During the last 10 minutes of grilling, generously brush the chicken on both sides with the peach bourbon BBQ sauce. Keep turning and basting until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred in places. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
4. Serve:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving plate and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve with extra peach bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your meal!
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this tender, flavorful peach bourbon BBQ grilled chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before grilling. The best way to thaw chicken is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Make the BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach bourbon BBQ sauce up to three days in advance. Simply cool it down after cooking, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before basting your chicken!
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
If bourbon isn’t available, you can substitute it with apple juice for a non-alcoholic option, or use a higher-quality whiskey for a similar flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more brown sugar to balance the taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or on the stove over low heat, adding a small amount of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. You can enjoy the chicken cold on salads or sandwiches too!
