Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

The sweet, smoky aroma of grilling chicken wafts through the air, beckoning you to the backyard. This Grilled Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is a delightful combination of juicy chicken thighs and a vibrant peach-infused barbecue sauce that delivers a flavor fusion you’ll crave. With only a short preparation and grilling time, this dish captures the essence of summer in every bite.

This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner. For those who plan ahead, the bourbon peach barbecue sauce can be made in advance and stored for later use.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, sweet, and smoky flavor.
• Juicy peaches caramelize beautifully on the grill, adding a unique texture.
• The bourbon enhances the sweetness while providing a subtle depth of flavor.
• Quick to prep and grill, it’s a perfect choice for busy evenings.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this dish:

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 Sauce

• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup barbeque sauce
• 3 tbsp bourbon

For the Spice Rub

• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Substitutions available for most ingredients as needed.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breasts.
• Use any barbecue sauce you prefer.
• Replace bourbon with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor if desired.

How to Make It

Creating this delicious dish is easy with these simple steps.

Mix the Spice Rub

Combine the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with this spice mixture.

Simmer the Sauce

In a saucepan, bring the diced peach and sugar to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.

Add the Sauce Ingredients

Stir in the barbeque sauce and bourbon, then allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes.

Puree the Sauce

Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the sauce until smooth. Set aside for later use.

Preheat the Grill

Turn on the grill and preheat to medium-high heat. Once heated, place the chicken thighs on the grill.

Grill the Chicken

Grill the chicken thighs for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Brush with Sauce

Generously brush the chicken with the bourbon peach BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 1 minute on each side. Repeat this step for an extra layer of flavor.

Grill the Remaining Peaches

While the chicken is resting, brush the remaining quartered peaches with the bourbon peach BBQ sauce and grill for 1-2 minutes on each side.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture of grilled chicken does not hold well.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the grill is properly preheated to get a good sear on the chicken.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to maintain juiciness.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper for your preferred spice level.
• Consider marinating chicken in the rub overnight for deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
• Enjoy alongside cornbread for a true Southern feast.