Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is a simple, flavor-packed recipe that delivers bold taste with minimal effort. This dish combines fresh ingredients and an easy cooking method to create a satisfying meal that works for busy days or relaxed dinners. It’s balanced, quick to prepare, and consistently delicious.

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This recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find and work well together for a balanced result.

• 6 chicken thighs, boneless, skin on or off
• 3 peaches, cored, quartered
• Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce:
• 1 peach, skin off, cored, diced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup barbeque sauce
• 3 tablespoons non-alcoholic bourbon alternative (or water for a simpler sauce)
• Spice Rub:
• 1 tsp each onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

You can swap ingredients based on what you have. Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu as the main protein. For a healthier option, reduce oil or use olive oil spray. Gluten-free users can choose certified gluten-free sauces. Dairy-free versions work easily by skipping butter or cream-based elements.

1. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Season the Chicken: Evenly coat the chicken thighs with the prepared spice rub.
3. Make the Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the diced peach and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until the peach softens.
4. Add the barbeque sauce and non-alcoholic bourbon alternative (or water) to the saucepan. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Puree the sauce using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Set aside.
6. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
7. Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until lightly browned.
8. Brush the chicken generously with the bourbon peach BBQ sauce. Grill for 1 minute on each side. Repeat with another coating of the sauce, grilling for an additional minute per side. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Grill the Peaches: While the chicken is resting, lightly brush the peach quarters with the remaining bourbon peach BBQ sauce. Grill for 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly softened and caramelized.
10. Serve: Serve the grilled bourbon peach BBQ chicken immediately with the grilled peaches and extra sauce on the side.

• Overcooking the protein can make it dry. Cook just until done.
• Skipping seasoning layers leads to bland flavor. Taste as you go.
• Not preheating the grill properly can lead to sticking and uneven cooking.
• Using unripe peaches will result in a tart sauce.

• Add vegetables like peppers, onions, or broccoli florets to the grill alongside the chicken and peaches for a complete meal.
• Make it spicier by adding extra cayenne pepper to the rub or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
• For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the spice rub.

• Serve with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or fresh corn on the cob.
• Pair with a light, crisp salad or a side of roasted summer vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• A simple side of coleslaw makes a great accompaniment.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bourbon peach BBQ sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before brushing on the chicken.

How do I store leftovers?

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned freezable containers for up to 2 months.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. They may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is a reliable, quick, and adaptable recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of sweet peaches, tangy BBQ sauce, and savory chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser, delivering consistent results every time you fire up the grill.

Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

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A summer-ready chicken recipe combining smoky barbeque flavors with sweet grilled peaches. Boneless chicken thighs are rubbed with a bold spice mix and glazed with homemade peach BBQ sauce. The non-alcoholic bourbon alternative adds depth without compromising dietary restrictions.

• Author: Clarice
• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 25
• Total Time: 40
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Ingredients

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6 chicken thighs, boneless, skin on or off
3 peaches, cored, quartered
1 peach, skin off, cored, diced
1 teaspoon sugar
½ cup barbeque sauce
3 tablespoons non-alcoholic bourbon alternative (or water)
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F)
In a small bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper
Rub spice mixture evenly over chicken thighs
Grill chicken 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred
While grilling, prepare sauce by blending diced peach, barbecue sauce, sugar, and non-alcoholic bourbon alternative
Return chicken to grill and brush with peach BBQ sauce during last 2-3 minutes
Grill peaches cut side down 3-4 minutes until softened

Notes

Use store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce
Adjust cayenne for heat level
Serve with grilled peaches as garnish
Marinate chicken 20 minutes at room temperature for better flavor
Leftovers keep in airtight container 3-4 days