Bourbon Infused BBQ Chicken Recipes

Oh boy, are you in for a treat! Looks like we’re busting you out of that chicken dinner snooze fest with something that’s gonna knock your socks off – bourbon. Yeah, you heard right, bourbon! It’s not just for sipping anymore; it’s your chicken’s new best friend. We’re talking about slathering your BBQ chicken in a bourbon-infused BBQ sauce that’s a game changer. Sweet, smoky, with a hint of booze, it’s like a party for your taste buds.

We’ve got 20 Bourbon Infused BBQ Chicken Recipes lined up for you, each with its own twist on this boozy BBQ magic. From the kick of a Spicy Bourbon BBQ Chicken to the unexpected delight of Coffee-Bourbon BBQ Chicken, we’ve got flavors that’ll make your palate do a happy dance. So, chuck those boring old recipes out the window and get ready for a flavor explosion. Apron on, tongs ready, and bourbon in hand – it’s time to elevate your BBQ game to legendary status. Who’s ready to make their chicken the talk of the town? Let’s dive into these clucking awesome bourbon-infused BBQ chicken recipes and set your dinner table ablaze with flavor!

What Are the Best Bourbon Infused BBQ Chicken Recipes Ideas?

As we venture into the realm of bourbon-infused BBQ chicken, let’s highlight the standout recipes in different categories based on flavor, ease of preparation, and that spicy kick we all love.

The Steps To Prepare Chicken Pre-BBQ

The journey to achieving mouthwatering, bourbon-infused BBQ chicken begins even before your grill is fired up. This critical phase—marinating—is where the chicken starts to soak up all the flavorful goodness, resulting in a succulent, finger-licking feast. Here, I’m sharing my time-tested process to prep the chicken for your BBQ endeavors.

1. The Clean Sweep: Start by cleaning the chicken. Rinse it under cold running water and pat dry using paper towels. This step ensures that you start with a clean canvas.
2. The Trim and Primp: Trim off any excess fat or loose skin. This step is not just about aesthetics; removing these parts can help prevent flare-ups when you’re grilling.
3. The Season Salute: Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper. This will enhance the chicken’s natural flavors and help the marinade to penetrate deeper.
4. The Marinade Soak: Create your chosen bourbon-infused marinade and immerse your chicken in it. The longer it marinates, the better, as this allows the flavors to fully permeate the chicken. A minimum of 30 minutes is a good starting point, but overnight marination can yield even more flavorful results.
5. The Chill Drill: Place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator. The cold environment allows the marinade to infuse without risking bacterial growth.
6. The Room-Temp Rest: Before you’re ready to grill, take out the chicken and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures even cooking when it hits the grill.

Preparation is key in the art of BBQ, and by giving your chicken this royal pre-BBQ treatment, you’re setting the stage for a bourbon-infused spectacle that’s bound to impress. Now that you’ve seen how to get your chicken BBQ-ready, let’s get into the recipes!

1. Spicy Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup Bourbon
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

2. Maple-Bourbon Glazed Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 2 cups maple syrup
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, maple syrup, apple cider, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

3. Citrus Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken thighs
• Juice and zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, orange juice, and zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

4. Smoky Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 2 cups smoky BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, smoky paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

5. Sweet and Tangy Bourbon Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

6. Bourbon-Chipotle BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken thighs
• 2 cups chipotle BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine Chipotle BBQ sauce, bourbon, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

7. Caramelized Onion and Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

8. Garlic-Herb Bourbon Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons mixed dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano)
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

9. Tropical Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken thighs
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, lime juice and zest, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

10. Sticky Bourbon and Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

11. Ginger-Soy Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

12. Peach-Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken thighs
• 1 cup peach jam
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, peach jam, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

13. Honey-Dijon Bourbon Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, honey, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

14. Smoky Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups smoky BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, bacon, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

15. Spicy Apple Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

16. Pomegranate Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 1 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, pomegranate juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

17. Coffee-Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, coffee, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

18. Mustard and Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup whole grain mustard
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

19. Spicy Pineapple Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken quarters
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, pineapple, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

20. Vanilla-Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, vanilla, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes—overnight is better.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F to 400°F).
4. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 40-50 minutes).
5. Baste with the remaining sauce in the last 15 minutes of grilling.
6. Let it rest before serving.

What Is BBQ Chicken?

BBQ chicken, in its most fundamental form, is chicken that’s been cooked using the heat and smoke of a grill or fire. The word ‘barbecue’ itself is a derivative of ‘barbacoa’, an ancient Caribbean term for a wooden framework used to smoke or cook meat. Over the centuries, BBQ has evolved into a universal culinary art, with each region and culture adding its unique flair to it.

The magic of BBQ chicken lies in its versatility. It’s a canvas open to a plethora of flavors—from smoky to sweet, tangy to spicy, and everything in between. A critical part of BBQ chicken’s allure is the BBQ sauce, a concoction that can vary greatly in ingredients and flavors. For example, a typical American BBQ sauce might include ketchup, vinegar, spices, and sweeteners, while Asian variants might incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and other regional flavors.

In the context of this guide, our BBQ chicken gets an indulgent twist with the inclusion of bourbon. The bourbon not only amplifies the flavors but also tenderizes the chicken, resulting in a beautifully charred exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. Combining BBQ chicken with bourbon truly embodies the spirit of quiet confidence and refinement, representing the essence of the leisurely, fine-dining experience we celebrate here.

Wrapping Up

Well, there you have it, folks – your guide to achieving the nirvana of bourbon-infused BBQ chicken. Remember, this is not just about chicken meeting bourbon in a deliciously fiery encounter. It’s about taking the ordinary and making it clucking extraordinary. It’s about treating your taste buds to a symphony of flavors and making your backyard the new hotspot for epicurean adventure.

In this gastronomic journey, you’ve not only armed yourself with the secret to preparing 20 different mouthwatering versions of BBQ chicken but also discovered the many ways this culinary craft can add richness to your life (and not just your sauce!).

As we wrap up this flame-kissed saga, remember this: in the world of BBQ, patience is the secret ingredient and bourbon, the magical elixir. Now, as the self-proclaimed Colonel Sanders of bourbon BBQ chicken, I encourage you to don your apron, grab that bottle of bourbon, fire up the grill, and let the aroma of your efforts waft through the neighborhood, inspiring envy and appetite in equal measure.

Because, my friends, life is too short for bland chicken and tasteless dinners. So, let’s raise a toast (preferably with bourbon) to the pursuit of BBQ perfection, the glory of bourbon, and the power of a good old chuckle as we embark on this delicious adventure. Until our next culinary rendezvous, stay saucy, folks!

FAQs:

• Q1: How long should I marinate the chicken in bourbon-infused BBQ sauce?
  A: While a minimum of 30 minutes can impart some flavor, for best results, it’s recommended to marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the bourbon and other flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, leading to a more flavorful result.
• Q2: Can I use any type of bourbon for these recipes?
  A: Yes, you can use any type of bourbon you prefer or have on hand. However, different bourbons will impart different flavors, so you might want to experiment and see which one you like the best.
• Q3: Is it safe to use bourbon in BBQ? I’m worried about flare-ups on the grill.
  A: While alcohol can indeed cause flare-ups, the amount used in these recipes is not enough to cause any significant risk. As always, you should monitor your grill and keep a safe distance when cooking.
• Q4: Can I substitute bourbon with something else in these recipes?
  A: If you prefer not to use bourbon or don’t have it available, you can try substituting it with another type of alcohol like rum or whiskey. Non-alcoholic substitutes could include apple juice, grape juice, or even coffee, although these will result in different flavors.
• Q5: Can I use these recipes with other types of meat?
  A: Absolutely! These bourbon-infused BBQ sauces would work great with other types of meat such as pork, beef, or even fish. Feel free to experiment and see what you like!

Happy grilling!