Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a burst of flavor. This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with a spicy rub and tangy barbecue sauce, creating a finger-licking good meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this chicken dish stands out for its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The sweet bourbon peach sauce perfectly complements the savory spices, making each bite unforgettable.
• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish on the grill in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with grilled veggies, over rice, or in a sandwich for different meal ideas.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends; it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe balances indulgence with health.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Saucepan
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smokiness that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
• Saucepan: Essential for preparing the bourbon peach sauce to ensure it thickens properly.
• Immersion blender: Makes pureeing the sauce easy without transferring it to another container.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredients

Sweet, sticky bourbon peach BBQ chicken made with fresh peaches, a spice rub and glazed with barbeque sauce. It’s finger licking good!

For the Chicken

• 6 chicken thighs (boneless, skin on or off)

For the Peaches

• 3 peaches (cored, quartered)
• 1 peach (skin off, cored, diced)

For the Spice Rub

• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup barbeque sauce
• 3 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tsp each onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub

Mix together all the spices in a bowl. Coat each chicken thigh evenly in the spice rub to ensure full flavor saturation.

Step 2: Make the Bourbon Peach Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine one diced peach and sugar. Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 5 minutes until soft.
Then:
1. Add barbeque sauce and bourbon to the pan.
2. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill on medium-high heat while you prepare your chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place chicken thighs on the grill:
1. Grill for 3-5 minutes on each side until they develop nice grill marks.
2. Brush generously with bourbon peach BBQ sauce during grilling.
3. Cook for an additional minute on each side after applying sauce.
4. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing from grill.

Step 5: Grill Additional Peaches

While chicken rests:
1. Brush remaining quartered peaches with more bourbon peach BBQ sauce.
2. Grill peaches for 1-2 minutes on each side until caramelized.

Serve immediately with extra bourbon peach BBQ sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling! Enjoy your delicious Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Serving Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is an opportunity to showcase its sweet, smoky flavors. Pair it with complementary sides and garnishes for a delightful meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes can balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Peach and Goat Cheese Salad: Combine fresh peaches with creamy goat cheese for a refreshing contrast.

On a Bun

• BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Serve the grilled chicken on a toasted bun topped with coleslaw for added crunch.
• Peach Slaw Burger: Use the bourbon peach BBQ chicken as a filling in a burger with a peach slaw topping for extra flavor.

With Grilled Peaches

• Grilled Peach Slices: Serve alongside warm grilled peaches brushed with bourbon sauce for a harmonious pairing.
• Peach Salsa: A fresh peach salsa can add zest and brightness, enhancing each bite of chicken.

How to Perfect Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Perfecting your Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken is delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peaches and high-quality barbecue sauce enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight absorbs more flavor from the spice rub and sauce.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat to achieve that perfect sear without drying out the chicken.
• Baste Frequently: Brush more bourbon peach BBQ sauce on the chicken while grilling for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices in the rub according to your taste preferences, adding more heat or sweetness as desired.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken.

1. Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
2. Baked Beans: A hearty side that adds sweetness and depth, making it an ideal partner for BBQ chicken.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the tender, juicy chicken.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes work well as a comforting side dish alongside this flavorful entrée.
5. Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad can balance out the sweetness of the bourbon peach sauce.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling can be a fun experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for when making Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken.

• Skipping the Spice Rub: Not coating the chicken with the spice rub can lead to bland flavor. Always ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Leaving chicken on the grill too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ignoring Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Using Unripe Peaches: Ripe peaches enhance the sweetness of the sauce. Choose peaches that yield slightly to pressure for the best results.
• Not Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If your bourbon peach BBQ sauce is too thick, it won’t glaze well. Add a bit of water or extra bourbon to get your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep any remaining bourbon peach BBQ sauce in a separate container.

Freezing Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Label and date your containers before placing them in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, heat over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Cover and cook for about 5-10 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken spicier?

You can add more cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce into your spice rub or sauce mixture for an extra kick.

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?

Yes! You can substitute peaches with nectarines or plums, which will also give a sweet flavor profile.

What should I serve with Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken?

This dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables, making it perfect for summer barbecues.

How do I store leftover bourbon peach BBQ sauce?

Keep any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is great for meal prep. It holds up well throughout the week and tastes delicious reheated.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to impress family and friends. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with different spices or side dishes based on your preferences. Give it a try at your next gathering—you won’t be disappointed!