This Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat for your summer BBQs! Sweet peaches and a dash of bourbon make a flavorful sauce that kisses the chicken as it grills.
One bite and you’ll feel like a grill master—even if it’s your first time! I like to serve it with a side of corn on the cob. Perfect for outdoor fun with friends and family! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken wings or drumettes are great for grilling because they cook quickly and become crispy. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work well but may need less cooking time.
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring sweetness and flavor. If it’s not peach season, feel free to use canned peaches in juice, just be sure to drain them well before blending!
Bourbon: The bourbon adds depth to the sauce. If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, replace it with apple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water for a tangy flair.
Ketchup: While ketchup is essential for the BBQ sauce, you could swap it out with barbecue sauce of your choice for a quick fix or try tomato paste mixed with a bit of water for a fresher take.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky but don’t worry! Here are some key tips to ensure it comes out juicy and flavorful:
- Make sure your grill is preheated and hot to get a nice sear on the chicken.
- Keep the grill covered while cooking; this helps maintain a consistent temperature.
- Rotate the chicken often to prevent burning but avoid flipping too frequently, as this can prevent good grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
These steps will help you achieve that perfect grilled chicken with beautiful marks every time!
Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings or drumettes
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes for grilling, making a total time of around 45-50 minutes. Most of that time is spent grilling and letting the sauce thicken, so you can relax while your chicken cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped peaches, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Cook the Sauce:
Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring often. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened. Once it’s thickened, remove from heat and set it aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 375-400°F / 190-205°C). To keep everything from sticking, be sure to oil the grill grates.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up. Toss them in olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper, making sure they’re well-coated.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken wings on the grill. Let them cook for about 20–25 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes. This helps prevent burning and makes sure they cook evenly.
6. Baste with Sauce:
During the last 10 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with the peach bourbon BBQ sauce. Turn and baste the chicken frequently to create a glossy, caramelized coating.
7. Check for Doneness:
Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully charred (but not burnt!), remove the chicken from the grill.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your delicious chicken with chopped green onions and extra sliced peaches if you like. Serve hot with any remaining BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your juicy, sweet, and smoky Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken! It’s sure to impress your friends and family! 🍑🔥
FAQ for Easy Peach Bourbon BBQ Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before grilling. Thawing overnight is best. If you’re short on time, you can use a sealed plastic bag in cold water to thaw it more quickly. Just be sure to pat it dry before grilling.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper in the sauce or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce when basting the chicken. For a milder version, you can omit the cayenne altogether or even reduce the amount of smoked paprika, as it can contribute to the spice level as well.
Can I Make the BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare 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, and give it a good stir!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or place it in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of water or leftover sauce to keep it moist. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
