Delicious Memorial Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken Recipe

Catch the aroma of smoky bourbon mingling with succulent chicken sizzling on the grill—this is what Memorial Day dreams are made of. Picture friends and family gathered around, laughter echoing through the air as you serve up your signature dish that is sure to steal the show at any gathering.

Memorial Day isn’t just about honoring those who served; it’s also about firing up the grill and indulging in mouthwatering flavors. And what better way to celebrate than with a zesty and sweet bourbon-infused BBQ chicken that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Trust me; it will be love at first bite.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for a family get-together. My uncle Bob took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s when I knew I had struck gold in my culinary adventures!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicier than breasts and hold up wonderfully during grilling.
• Bourbon: Choose a smooth bourbon; its sweetness enhances the marinade beautifully.
• Brown Sugar: This adds caramelization and a hint of sweetness that balances out the tangy ingredients.
• Ketchup: It serves as a great base for your sauce, giving it that classic BBQ flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of this adds a refreshing tanginess that brightens the dish.
• Garlic Powder: Use this for a subtle garlicky punch without overwhelming flavors.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika brings out bold flavors and adds depth to your sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning that amplifies everything else in your marinade!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Marinade :Start by combining bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until well-blended—your taste buds will start doing happy dances already!

Marinate The Chicken :Place the boneless skinless thighs into a resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour half of the marinade over them and seal or cover tightly. Let them soak in those rich flavors for at least 1 hour—overnight works wonders too!

Preheat Your Grill :While you wait impatiently (it’s torture!), preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This should be around 375°F (190°C). The anticipation makes it more exciting!

Grill That Chicken :Remove the chicken from its cozy marinade bath and discard any remaining marinade. Place them on the grill grates and cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until they’re cooked through and have those lovely grill marks.

Baste For Extra Flavor :During the last few minutes of grilling, brush on some of the reserved marinade to add an extra layer of flavor. You’ll know it’s ready when you’ve got a caramelized glaze forming—it’s like magic!

Serve It Up :Once done, transfer your beautiful bourbon BBQ chicken onto a platter. Let it rest for about five minutes before serving—it helps keep all those juicy goodness locked inside.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this sensational meal! Grab some sides like coleslaw or grilled veggies to complete your plate.

This delightful dish is bound to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every finger-licking bite!

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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate flavors beautifully and bring vibrant aromas to your dish. I once used wilted herbs and regretted every bite.

Marinate Overnight: Allowing chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor penetration significantly. My sister forgot this step once; her chicken tasted like cardboard!

Monitor Grill Temperature: Keeping an eye on your grill temperature prevents overcooking and ensures juicy results. I learned this after serving dry chicken at last year’s BBQ.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear your chicken first for that smoky flavor, then cook on indirect heat until juicy perfection is achieved.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup or add smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven.

I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; they devoured it and asked for seconds—it felt great!

FAQ

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Try turkey or even firm tofu for a tasty alternative.

How long should I marinate my chicken?

Marinating for at least 4 hours maximizes flavor but overnight is best!

What sides pair well with Memorial Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken?

Corn on the cob and coleslaw are perfect compliments to this delightful dish.

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Memorial Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken

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A flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor celebrations.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

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• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup smooth bourbon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate chicken thighs in half of the marinade for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
4. Discard used marinade and grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked with nice grill marks.
5. Brush reserved marinade on chicken during the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.
6. Let the chicken rest for five minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to brighten flavors.
•  For smoky depth, add a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade.
•  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (170g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 110mg