Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Save this recipe on:

Sticky, sweet, smoky, and utterly irresistible—this Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is a celebration of bold summer flavors with a twist of southern charm. Perfectly grilled or oven-roasted chicken is coated in a luscious homemade BBQ sauce made with ripe peaches, smoky bourbon, and just the right kick of spice. The glaze caramelizes into a golden, tangy-sweet finish that clings beautifully to each bite of tender meat. Whether served at a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dish brings warmth and depth to your table.

The bourbon adds a rich, oaky complexity that elevates the peach’s natural sweetness, while the BBQ sauce’s savory layers soak into the chicken to create juicy, flavorful bites. Paired with charred edges and soft chunks of roasted peaches, the entire dish comes together with a balance of sticky, spicy, and sweet that tastes like summer in every bite.

---

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

• Unique Flavor Fusion: Sweet peaches and smoky bourbon make an unforgettable BBQ sauce you won’t find in a bottle.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a surefire hit for cookouts, potlucks, and weeknight dinners alike.
• Versatile Cooking: Great on the grill, baked in the oven, or cooked in a skillet.
• Juicy and Tender: The marinade ensures the chicken is full of flavor and never dry.
• Easy to Scale: Make it for two or twenty—it’s simple to double or triple.
• Perfect for Summer: Bursting with peachy goodness and BBQ vibes, it screams warm-weather dining.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment & the Importance of Each Tool)

To make the most out of your Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken, preparation is everything. From marinating the chicken to crafting the rich, sticky glaze, having the right tools ensures smooth execution and better flavor absorption.

Essential Tools:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan
  Ideal for achieving a beautiful sear and caramelization on the chicken while locking in juices. If grilling outdoors, a traditional BBQ grill works perfectly too.
• Blender or Food Processor
  For blending the peach BBQ sauce into a silky texture that clings well to the chicken.
• Medium Saucepan
  Crucial for simmering the bourbon peach sauce to concentrate flavors and achieve a thick, sticky glaze.
• Mixing Bowls
  You’ll need these for marinating the chicken with spices or the initial portion of the sauce.
• Tongs
  Helps flip the chicken easily and safely, whether grilling or pan-searing, to get an even cook.
• Basting Brush
  To generously coat the chicken with the BBQ glaze while it cooks or before serving.
• Meat Thermometer
  Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.

---

Preparation Tips

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight) to let the bourbon and spices deeply infuse.
• Use Ripe, Juicy Peaches: Fresh, in-season peaches will give the sauce a natural sweetness and more intense fruit flavor. If unavailable, canned peaches in juice (not syrup) are a reliable backup.
• Simmer the Sauce Low and Slow: Let the sauce cook down gently to develop deeper flavor and a glossy, sticky consistency.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Whether you’re grilling or pan-searing, aim for that slight char. It adds a smokiness that balances the sweet peach glaze.
• Baste Frequently: Reapply the sauce as the chicken cooks for maximum flavor layering and that glossy, caramelized finish.

---

Ingredients for This Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken

Creating the perfect Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken starts with gathering fresh, flavorful ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to make both the juicy chicken and the luscious bourbon peach barbecue sauce:

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless, skin-on for more flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling or searing)

For the Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce:

• 2 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned peaches in juice, drained)
• ½ cup bourbon (use a decent-quality brand for best flavor)
• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• Salt, to taste

Garnish (optional but recommended):

• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
• Extra peach slices, grilled or roasted

---

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning and glaze stick better. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If using skin-on chicken, ensure seasoning gets underneath the skin for maximum flavor. Set aside while you prepare the sauce or marinate for 2–4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.

---

Step 2: Make the Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped peaches, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the peaches soften and the sauce thickens.

---

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened and the peaches are tender, remove it from the heat. Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it cool slightly—this will thicken more as it rests.

---

Step 4: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Heat a grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and slightly charred. If using thick cuts, you may need to finish cooking them in the oven at 375°F for about 10–15 more minutes or until internal temp hits 165°F.

---

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

During the last few minutes of cooking, generously brush the chicken with the bourbon peach BBQ sauce. Flip and baste both sides a couple of times, letting the sauce caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful coating.

---

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices. Garnish with chopped herbs and grilled peach slices for an extra touch.

---

Notes

• Use Skin-On Chicken for More Flavor: Skin-on cuts render beautifully when grilled or seared, creating a crispy exterior that locks in moisture and adds texture.
• Alcohol Content: The bourbon will mostly cook off during the simmering and grilling process, leaving behind flavor without the alcohol. However, for a completely alcohol-free version, substitute with apple juice or peach nectar.
• Make Ahead Tip: The peach BBQ sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed jar. Just reheat gently before basting or serving.
• Double the Sauce: This glaze is so good, you’ll want extra for dipping or drizzling. Consider doubling the sauce recipe if you’re feeding a crowd.
• Try Smoking It: For even more depth, consider smoking the chicken low and slow with hickory or fruitwood chips before glazing.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Especially with breasts, it’s easy to dry them out. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is the magic number.
• Boiling the Sauce Too Aggressively: High heat can scorch the sugars in the sauce, making it taste burnt. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Skipping the Blending Step: Whole peach pieces won’t give you that smooth, lacquered texture. Blend until velvety for a professional finish.
• Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking causes the juices to run out. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
• Using Unripe Peaches: They’ll lack the sweetness and juice needed for a balanced sauce. Go for peaches that are soft to the touch and fragrant.
• Applying Sauce Too Early: Brushing the glaze on too soon can cause burning due to the sugar content. Wait until the last few minutes of cooking.

---

What to Serve With Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken?

This dish is packed with bold, sticky-sweet and smoky flavors, so pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal. Whether you’re throwing a summer BBQ or cooking a cozy dinner at home, here’s what goes beautifully with it.

8 Recommendations

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   A smoky, buttery ear of corn pairs wonderfully with the caramelized peach glaze. Add chili-lime butter for an extra kick.
2. Creamy Coleslaw
   The crisp, tangy slaw helps cut through the sweetness and adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm chicken.
3. Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
   Smooth and savory, these soak up the extra BBQ sauce like a dream.
4. Peach and Arugula Salad
   Tie the flavors together with a refreshing salad that echoes the peach notes, finished with goat cheese and a light vinaigrette.
5. Skillet Cornbread
   Slightly sweet and soft inside with crispy edges, cornbread complements the BBQ sauce’s texture and flavor perfectly.
6. Smoked Baked Beans
   Rich and hearty, these bring a bold, umami balance that fits the southern BBQ vibe.
7. Grilled Asparagus or Green Beans
   Light, fresh greens offer a crisp bite and a vibrant counterpoint to the sticky chicken.
8. Mac and Cheese
   The creamy indulgence of mac and cheese contrasts deliciously with the tangy, smoky glaze on the chicken.

---

Storage Instructions

Properly storing your Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken ensures you can enjoy leftovers that are just as flavorful the next day—or even later in the week.

Refrigeration:

• How to Store: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container.
• Shelf Life: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating Tips: Warm it in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second bursts until heated through.

Freezing:

• Freezing Chicken: You can freeze the cooked chicken (with or without sauce) for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freezing Sauce: The bourbon peach BBQ sauce can also be frozen separately in a mason jar or zip bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pro Tip:

For best results, store sauce and chicken separately if freezing. This allows you to refresh the glaze after reheating for a freshly-cooked finish.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on a 6-serving yield, using skinless chicken thighs and full sauce portion):

• Calories: ~385
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Sugar: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 460mg

Nutrition values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes. For a lighter option, use chicken breast and reduce sugar or honey in the sauce.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without bourbon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with apple juice, peach nectar, or even chicken broth for an alcohol-free version that still delivers rich, fruity depth.

---

2. Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Yes. Canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) or thawed frozen peaches work well when fresh peaches are out of season. Just drain them thoroughly before use.

---

3. What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks are ideal for flavor and juiciness. However, boneless breasts or thighs also work—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

---

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Definitely. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baste with the sauce during the final 10 minutes.

---

5. Is the sauce spicy?

Not by default. It’s sweet and smoky with optional red pepper flakes for heat. Add more if you like a spicier kick, or omit entirely for a mild version.

---

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s even better when the flavors have time to meld. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

---

7. What bourbon should I use?

A mid-range bourbon like Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, or Woodford Reserve offers good flavor without being overly expensive. No need for top-shelf!

---

8. How can I tell when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. The juices should run clear when pierced.

---

Conclusion

Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken is a standout dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something deeply satisfying and packed with summer soul. The sweet ripeness of peaches, the oaky warmth of bourbon, and the tangy, sticky BBQ glaze turn tender chicken into a masterpiece. Whether you’re grilling under the sun or cooking indoors, this dish brings family and friends together around bold flavors and comforting textures.

Best of all, it’s versatile, forgiving, and unforgettable—perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard parties, or meal prep. So grab those peaches, fire up your pan (or grill), and get ready to enjoy a meal that tastes like sunshine on a plate.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: