This Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken is a summer favorite! Juicy chicken thighs are slathered in a sweet and tangy peach bourbon sauce that makes every bite delicious.
I love how the grill adds a nice smoky flavor and the peach gives it a fun twist! Perfect for cookouts, just make sure to save some sauce for dipping—it’s that good! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings or Drumettes: I like using wings for that crispy texture! If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs or breasts instead. Just adjust the cooking time, as they may need longer.
Fresh Peach Puree: Fresh peaches make the sauce extra special, but you can use canned peach puree if needed. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to control the sauce’s sweetness.
Bourbon Whiskey: Bourbon adds depth, but if you want to skip it, try using apple juice or apple cider for a non-alcoholic twist. You won’t get the same flavor, but it will still be tasty!
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup, but reduce the added liquid in the sauce a bit.
How Do I Make the Perfect Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
Making a great BBQ sauce at home is simple! Start by mixing all the ingredients in a saucepan and let it simmer. The key is cooking it low and slow to thicken and deepen the flavors.
- Keep stirring occasionally to avoid burning the sauce.
- If you like it spicy, add more cayenne or even a dash of hot sauce!
- Don’t forget to let it cool before using, as this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
How Can I Grill Chicken Without Burning It?
Grilling can be tricky, but with the right technique, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken! Start with medium-high heat and keep the grill lid down as much as possible.
- Remember to flip the wings only once to avoid sticking. Baste only after turning them over.
- If you have flare-ups, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill momentarily to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—165°F (74°C) means they’re done!
Enjoy crafting a delicious batch of Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken that will impress your family and friends!
Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 to 3 pounds chicken wings or drumettes, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh peach puree (about 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and pitted)
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook on the grill. Plus, you’ll need some extra time to simmer the sauce, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Overall, you can enjoy this meal in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
Start by making the BBQ sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix together the fresh peach puree, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer, then turn down to low and let it cook gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken nicely. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your sauce is cooling, get your chicken ready. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely. Lightly brush each wing with olive oil and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This seasoning will enhance the flavors as they grill.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Next, fire up your grill! Set it to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F, 190-204°C). Make sure to have both direct and indirect heat zones on your grill so the chicken can cook evenly without burning.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the chicken wings on the grill and let them cook for about 10 minutes on one side. When they’re nicely browned, flip them over and baste them generously with your peach bourbon BBQ sauce using a brush. Then grill them for another 10-12 minutes, basting occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are slightly charred and caramelized. Yum!
5. Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, transfer the wings to a serving plate. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for garnish and a burst of freshness. Don’t forget to serve some extra peach bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!
And there you have it! Enjoy your sweet, smoky, and tangy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken, perfect for summer cookouts or any casual meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken wings in the fridge overnight or by submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning and grilling to ensure they crisp up nicely!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the BBQ Sauce?
If you’d like to reduce the heat, simply skip the cayenne pepper. For those who enjoy a spicier sauce, you can add more cayenne or even a splash of hot sauce to the mix while cooking, adjusting to your taste!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the peach bourbon BBQ sauce up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before using it for basting or dipping!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it moist when reheating, warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in a microwave with a splash of water or sauce to create steam.
