Grilled peach and bourbon BBQ chicken recipe that celebrates summer’s best produce and packs in bold, smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. 🍑🔥

Grilled Peach & Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil for brushing

For the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

• 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup bourbon

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil or mint

• Grilled peach slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the BBQ Sauce:

   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine diced peaches, ketchup, bourbon, vinegar, honey, mustard, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.

   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peaches soften and the sauce thickens.

   • Blend the sauce with an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) until smooth.

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let cool.

2. Prep the Chicken:

   • Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.

   • Brush lightly with olive oil.

3. Grill the Chicken:

   • Preheat grill to medium heat (350–375°F).

   • Place chicken skin-side down over indirect heat. Grill for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.

   • Brush generously with the peach bourbon BBQ sauce and move over direct heat.

   • Grill another 5–10 minutes, basting frequently, until caramelized and the internal temp hits 165°F.

4. Optional: Grill Peach Slices

   • While the chicken rests, grill halved peaches cut-side down for 2–3 minutes until charred and sweet.

5. Serve:

   • Top chicken with fresh herbs and serve with grilled peach slices and extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Side: Grilled corn salad, watermelon feta salad, or herb potato wedges

• Drink: Bourbon lemonade, iced tea with mint, or a light rosé