Honey Bourbon Barbecue Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich, smoky flavors of bourbon with the sweet tang of honey and barbecue sauce. This sauce, made from a blend of ketchup, brown sugar, and spices, coats the chicken perfectly, creating a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s irresistible. Whether grilled or baked, the chicken remains juicy and tender, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or any time you crave something savory with a hint of sweetness. This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
Honey Bourbon Barbecue Chicken Recipe
Whether grilled or baked, the chicken remains juicy and tender, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or any time you crave something savory with a hint of sweetness. This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken
For the Honey Bourbon Barbecue Sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Honey Bourbon Barbecue Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, bourbon, honey, and brown sugar.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- For grilling: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with the honey bourbon barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- For baking: Place the chicken in a baking dish and brush generously with the honey bourbon barbecue sauce. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, brush with additional sauce before serving.
- Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 600kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Cholesterol 55mg19%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 69g23%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 23g
- Protein 23g46%
- Calcium 100 mg
- Iron 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Chicken Cuts: You can use chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks for this recipe. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the cut.
- Bourbon: The bourbon adds depth and a subtle smoky flavor to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute with apple juice or chicken broth.
- Sauce Consistency: Simmering the sauce helps thicken it. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
- Marinating: Marinating the chicken in some of the sauce for a few hours will intensify the flavor, but be sure to keep some sauce separate for basting and serving.
- Grill vs. Oven: Grilling the chicken will add a smoky char that complements the bourbon flavor, while baking is a convenient option if you don’t have access to a grill.