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Flavorful Peach Bourbon BBQ Glazed Chicken Thighs

peach bourbon bbq glazed chicken thighs - featured image

Sweet, smoky, and with a kick of bourbon, these glazed chicken thighs are perfect for summer grilling, delivering juicy, tender meat with a sticky, caramelized peach bourbon BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 large fresh peaches, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark)
  • 1 cup smoky, slightly spicy BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peach Bourbon BBQ Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine diced peaches, bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until peaches soften and sauce reduces to a thick, glossy glaze, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Blend the Sauce: Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree the sauce until smooth. Return the sauce to the pan and keep warm on very low heat.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour about half of the warm peach bourbon glaze over them, coating well. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour (optional).
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (around 375°F/190°C). Brush grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook about 6-7 minutes per side, basting frequently with reserved glaze. Avoid flare-ups by moving chicken if needed. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is crispy and caramelized.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes off heat before serving to redistribute juices.

Notes

Baste often and flip regularly to prevent sugar in the sauce from burning. Marinating is optional but recommended for deeper flavor. If glaze thickens too much while resting, warm gently and add a splash of water or bourbon to loosen. For smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips to grill. Frozen peaches can be used if fresh are unavailable. Substitute bourbon with whiskey or apple juice for non-alcoholic version. Use gluten-free BBQ sauce for gluten-free diet.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach bourbon BBQ chicken, grilled chicken thighs, summer grilling, BBQ glaze, bourbon chicken, peach BBQ sauce