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recipe for honey bourbon barbecue chicken
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Recipe for honey bourbon barbecue chicken

Irresistible Honey Bourbon BBQ Chicken Recipe | Grill Master's Secret
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword recipe for honey bourbon barbecue chicken
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 2530kcal
Author Alice Ketty

Equipment

  • Large Bowl

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

For the honey bourbon barbecue sauce:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture all over the chicken. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • While the chicken is resting, make the barbecue sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). If using a charcoal grill, set it up for two-zone cooking with the coals on one side.
  • Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down. For a charcoal grill, place it on the cooler side. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Continue cooking, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 160°F for white meat or 170°F for dark meat.
  • In the last 5 minutes of cooking, start brushing the chicken with the honey bourbon barbecue sauce. Flip and brush every minute or so to build up a nice, sticky glaze.
  • Once the chicken is fully cooked and nicely glazed, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Serve the chicken with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

Tips for Grilling Success

Grilling can be an art form, and like any art, it takes practice to perfect. Here are some tips to help you achieve barbecue chicken perfection:

Keep the Lid Closed

It might be tempting to constantly check on your chicken, but resist the urge! Keeping the lid closed helps maintain a consistent temperature and allows the smoke to infuse the meat with flavor.

Use a Meat Thermometer

The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through without drying it out is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bones, for an accurate reading.

Don't Rush the Sauce

Adding barbecue sauce too early can lead to burning. Wait until the last few minutes of cooking to start glazing your chicken. This will give you a perfect, caramelized exterior without any bitter, burnt bits.

Let It Rest

After removing the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier, more flavorful chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 2530kcal | Carbohydrates: 164g | Protein: 224g | Fat: 108g | Fiber: 2g