This Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken is a tasty twist on summer grilling! The sweet peach and rich bourbon create a tangy sauce that makes each bite so good.
Honestly, who can resist juicy chicken coated in a yummy glaze? I love serving it with a side of corn on the cob—it’s a perfect summer meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings or Drumettes: This dish is great with wings, but you can also use thighs or breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster.
Fresh Peaches: If peaches aren’t in season, canned peaches or peach preserves work well too! You could even use apricots for a different fruity twist.
Bourbon Whiskey: Looking for a substitute? You can use apple juice or a splash of vinegar for a non-alcoholic version. For a different flavor, try rum or whiskey.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought sauce is perfectly fine. If you want a lighter touch, look for low-sugar or organic options.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to keep them juicy while grilling. Ensure the grill is preheated to get that nice sear—it’s all about sealing in those juices!
- Cook on medium-high heat and keep an eye on them. Turn occasionally for even cooking.
- Brush with peach bourbon BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes to get that caramelized glaze.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (74°C) is your magic number!
These steps will help you achieve delicious, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy your grilling!
Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken wings or drumettes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
For the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and chopped (or peach puree)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus 20-25 minutes for grilling. You’ll spend a little time cooking the sauce, but once that’s done, the grilling goes quickly and is so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped peaches (or peach puree), barbecue sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. You want it to thicken up and make the peaches nice and soft, which will take about 10-15 minutes. If you’d like a smooth sauce, you can use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend it all up. Set the sauce aside when done.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings or drumettes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will help keep the chicken juicy and add flavor. Don’t forget to save about 1/4 cup of the peach bourbon BBQ sauce for when you’re ready to serve.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Alright, it’s time to fire up the grill! Heat it to a medium-high temperature, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). This will give your chicken that nice char you want!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is ready, place the chicken on there and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to turn the chicken occasionally so that it cooks evenly on all sides. During the last 10 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with the peach bourbon BBQ sauce. This adds a delicious glaze to the chicken!
5. Serve:
Once your chicken is fully cooked (check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), remove it from the grill. Garnish with chopped green onions to add a bit of color and flavor. Serve it up with the reserved BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken feast!
Pair this dish with some fresh sides like coleslaw or a corn salad for a perfect summer meal!
FAQ for Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed first! Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. Once thawed, proceed with marinating and grilling as directed in the recipe.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more brown sugar or a splash of honey to the mix while cooking the sauce. Taste it as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate!
Can I Make the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before using it to brush on the chicken.
What Should I Serve with This Chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce!
