Father’s Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the scent of chicken marinating in a rich bourbon sauce while the grill sizzles away. Picture juicy pieces of chicken bathed in a sweet and tangy glaze that dances on your taste buds. If you’re anything like me, you can already hear the sound of laughter and see happy faces gathered around the grill on Father’s Day.

Growing up, my dad was the king of the grill. His secret? A homemade bourbon BBQ sauce that made every cookout feel like a celebration. This Father’s Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken recipe is not just another dish; it’s a tribute to those cherished moments spent together over smoky flavors and hearty laughs.

I remember one Father’s Day when I accidentally spilled half the bourbon into the marinade—let’s just say we ended up with “extra special” chicken that year! My dad laughed it off while devouring every last bite.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many guests you have; they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
• Bourbon: Choose a good-quality bourbon; it adds depth and richness to your sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor that balances the acidity perfectly.
• Ketchup: This common ingredient brings sweetness and tanginess; choose your favorite brand for best results.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds brightness to balance out the sweetness; be sure to use fresh vinegar for maximum zing.
• Garlic Powder: Use this for convenience; it delivers robust flavor without any chopping required.
• Onion Powder: Enhances depth in flavor while keeping things simple—no tears involved!
• Paprika: Go for smoked paprika if you want an extra dimension of flavor; it gives a lovely smokiness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that you should adjust according to your taste preferences.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preparing Your Marinade

Begin by creating your marinade. In a bowl, combine bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth—this marinade should be gloriously sticky!

Marinating the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal tightly or cover well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible—this lets those flavors soak in beautifully.

Preheating Your Grill

While you’re waiting (impatiently), preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). You want that perfect sear! Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking because nobody likes an incomplete chicken disaster.

Grilling Time

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes until grill marks appear and juices run clear—use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure (165°F/74°C is ideal).

Basting with Sauce

As you flip your chicken during grilling time, brush some reserved marinade onto each piece. This adds layers of flavor while creating a beautiful glaze as it caramelizes on the heat—yum!

Serving Your Creation

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into it. Serve with remaining marinade on the side—it’s like giving every bite an encore performance!

Enjoying Father’s Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating memories around food filled with laughter and joy. So fire up that grill and get cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken overnight, then preheat your grill. Sear the chicken on high heat for a crispy skin before reducing to medium heat for thorough cooking.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick or swapping brown sugar with honey for natural sweetness. Feel free to experiment!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain moisture.

Memories flood back as I recall my first attempt at grilling this dish—everyone loved it! My dad declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” and I felt like a culinary rockstar.

FAQ

What can I substitute for bourbon in this recipe?

Use apple juice or orange juice for a sweet alternative that pairs well with BBQ flavors.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Thighs and drumsticks work wonderfully and stay juicy while cooking.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate it safely for up to 24 hours without losing flavor or texture.

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Father’s Day Bourbon BBQ Chicken

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Delight your dad this Father’s Day with this succulent BBQ chicken recipe that combines sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for grilling and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup apple juice
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix apple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C) and oil the grates.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill each side for about 6-8 minutes until juices run clear (165°F/74°C).
5. Brush reserved marinade on the chicken while grilling for added flavor.
6. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For an extra tangy kick, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade.
•  Substitute brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat gently in the oven at 350°F.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 95mg