Description
This Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs brushed with a homemade bourbon-infused peach BBQ sauce. The sauce balances sweetness from peach preserves with tangy ketchup and a smoky, slightly spicy kick from smoked paprika and cayenne. This dish can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared, making it flexible for any cooking preference. It’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a festive weekend gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup peach preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine peach preserves, ketchup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat while stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and aid in browning.
- Cook the Chicken: Choose one of the following methods:
Grilling: Preheat grill to medium heat and grease grates to prevent sticking. Grill chicken 6-8 minutes per side, brushing with the bourbon peach BBQ sauce during the last few minutes, cooking until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during the final 10 minutes until fully cooked.
Pan-Searing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side, basting with BBQ sauce in the last minutes until cooked through. - Serve: Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices. Drizzle additional bourbon peach BBQ sauce on top. Serve alongside roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy: Savor the sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors of this Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken, perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier option.
- The bourbon in the sauce adds depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version; consider substituting with apple juice or additional vinegar.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level or omit if sensitive to spice.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).
- This sauce can be made in advance and stored refrigerated for up to 5 days.
