This Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken is a treat! Juicy chicken gets a sweet twist with fruity peaches and a splash of bourbon for a yummy glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
I love making this dish when the weather’s nice! It’s perfect for summer BBQs. Just grill, brush on the sauce, and enjoy. Plus, the smell is so good, it might make your neighbors a bit jealous! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken wings or drumettes are perfect for grilling due to their crispy skin and juicy meat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which also stay moist and tender.
Peach Puree: Fresh peaches bring a lovely sweetness to the sauce. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use store-bought peach puree or even canned peaches (just drain them well). Don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits like mango for a different twist!
Bourbon: Bourbon gives the sauce a rich depth. If you’d rather avoid alcohol, try a splash of apple juice or peach nectar for sweetness, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
Ketchup: Ketchup is a key base in BBQ sauces. If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, sugar-free ketchup works well. Alternatively, try tomato sauce mixed with a bit of sugar and vinegar.
How Do I Get Crispy Grilled Chicken?
Getting crispy chicken on the grill is all about the preparation and technique. Start by patting the wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up nicely on the grill.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the chicken.
- Grill the wings for about 20-25 minutes, turning them often to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- During the last 10 minutes, apply the BBQ sauce. This allows the sugars to caramelize without burning.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Following these tips will yield perfectly crispy, flavorful chicken that everyone will love!
Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 lbs chicken wings or drumettes
- 1 cup fresh peach puree (about 2 ripe peaches, peeled and blended)
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare the sauce and chicken, plus 20-25 minutes of grilling time. For a total of 30-35 minutes, you will have delicious, BBQ-infused chicken ready to be served!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh peach puree, bourbon, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps it thicken slightly and allows the flavors to meld together. Once it’s ready, remove it from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them to crisp up on the grill. Toss the wings in olive oil and lightly season with salt and pepper for added flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken wings on the grill grates. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally. This will help them cook evenly and develop those lovely grill marks.
5. Baste with Sauce:
During the last 10 minutes of grilling, be sure to brush the chicken generously with the peach bourbon BBQ sauce. Continue to turn and baste the chicken in the sauce to build up amazing layers of flavor while caramelizing the sauce just a bit.
6. Check for Doneness:
Remove the chicken from the grill once it’s cooked through; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. You’ll know it’s done when it’s juicy and the sauce is nicely caramelized.
7. Serve It Up:
Arrange the grilled chicken on a serving plate, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a nice pop of color, and serve with any remaining peach bourbon BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your sweet, smoky, and tangy Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken! Perfect for BBQ gatherings or a fun family dinner!
FAQ About Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the frozen chicken completely before grilling. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. Place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can replace it with peach nectar, apple juice, or even a splash of soda for sweetness. While the flavor will differ slightly, it will still add a nice taste to your BBQ sauce!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave until heated through. If possible, add a little splash of sauce to keep it moist!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach bourbon BBQ sauce a day in advance. Just let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to grill, you can warm it gently on the stovetop before using it to baste the chicken.
