Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Oh wow, you guys! I just made the juiciest chicken ever. It’s all sticky, sweet, and kinda fancy too.

I love how the peaches and bourbon come together. It’s like a little party in my mouth. Every bite makes me wanna do a happy dance.

You’ve gotta try this. It’s so easy, and your family will totally love it. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

So, wanna cook this bourbon peach BBQ chicken with me? Let’s fire up the grill. It’s gonna be so, so good!

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken Recipe

• Reader Favorite: Many of you have commented on how this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and smoky!
• Sweet & Tangy: The peaches and bourbon in the BBQ sauce give this chicken a unique twist that will make your taste buds dance.
• Tender & Juicy Chicken: With the right cooking techniques, this chicken comes out moist and tender every time.
• Quick & Easy: You only need about 30 minutes of prep time, and the chicken cooks up in no time.
• Perfect for Grilling or Stovetop Cooking: Whether you’re at the grill or indoors, this recipe is versatile enough to handle both cooking methods.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—perfect for salads, wraps, sandwiches, or just on its own.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before diving into the recipe, here’s a list of the kitchen tools you’ll need to get started:

• Grill or Stovetop Skillet: This recipe works perfectly on either the grill or a stovetop skillet.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Bowl: For mixing the marinade and BBQ sauce.
• Basting Brush or Spoon: To apply the BBQ sauce while grilling.
• Tongs: For flipping and handling the chicken on the grill.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For preparing the peaches and chicken.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering chicken (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: You can use bone-in or boneless chicken, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs will cook the quickest.
• Garlic Powder & Sweet Paprika: These spices will season the chicken and give it a flavorful base.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the other flavors.
• Fresh Peaches: Sweet, juicy peaches are the star of this dish. You’ll need four peaches—two for the sauce and two for grilling or garnish.
• Bourbon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the BBQ sauce.
• White Sugar: A touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the peaches.
• Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce will work fine, but feel free to use homemade BBQ sauce for an extra personal touch.

Variations for Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

• Add a Spice Kick: If you like heat, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños to the BBQ sauce for a spicy twist.
• Use Different Fruit: If peaches aren’t in season, try substituting with nectarines, apricots, or even plums.
• Make It Alcohol-Free: If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, you can skip the bourbon and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
• Use Different BBQ Sauces: Experiment with different BBQ sauce types, like a smoky, mustard-based sauce, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce for variety.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, mint, or thyme for a pop of freshness and extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Pro Tip: If you have a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and stay juicy.

2. Grill or Sear the Chicken

Grill Directions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F).
2. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before applying the sauce to keep it juicy.

Stovetop Directions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before adding the bourbon peach BBQ sauce.

3. Make the Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, it’s time to make the sauce. This bourbon peach BBQ sauce is the heart and soul of this recipe!

1. Prepare the Peaches: Slice two peaches and remove the pits. Dice them into small chunks.
2. Cook the Peaches: In a small saucepan, combine the diced peaches, bourbon, white sugar, and BBQ sauce. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches soften and break down into a chunky sauce.
4. Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
5. Finish the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more sugar for sweetness, more BBQ sauce for tang, or more bourbon for a richer flavor.

4. Baste the Chicken with the Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through, it’s time to coat it with that irresistible bourbon peach BBQ sauce. Brush the sauce generously over the chicken, ensuring every inch of the chicken is covered in that sweet, smoky glaze.

5. Serve and Garnish

Serve the bourbon peach BBQ chicken with the remaining grilled peaches, or slice the chicken and place it over a bed of rice, salad, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

This bourbon peach BBQ chicken is incredibly versatile and can be paired with many sides and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to make a complete meal:

• With Grilled Vegetables: Serve it alongside grilled vegetables like corn on the cob, bell peppers, or zucchini for a full summer meal.
• Over Rice: Pair it with cilantro lime rice or even a creamy risotto to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• On a Salad: Shred the chicken and add it to a fresh salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens. Top with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The richness of the BBQ sauce pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
• In Sandwiches or Wraps: Slice the chicken and serve it in a sandwich or wrap with some crisp lettuce and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.

Storing Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

• Marinated Chicken: If you’re prepping ahead, store the seasoned chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, just follow the grilling or stovetop directions.
• Cooked Chicken: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop to preserve moisture.
• Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce: Store the leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It also freezes well if you want to save some for later use.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for this Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken:

Nutrient	Amount per serving (4 oz chicken)
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	2g
Sugars	12g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	80mg
Sodium	380mg

Conclusion

This Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken recipe brings together the best of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors for a meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling in the summer or cooking indoors in the winter, this dish is versatile and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect choice for family dinners, BBQ parties, or meal prepping for the week. Give it a try, and watch your friends and family rave about it!