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Best Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken Skewers

bourbon peach chicken skewers - featured image

These Best Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken Skewers are the kind of thing you make when you want people to stop talking mid-bite and just nod at you with wide eyes. The bourbon adds that warm, oaky depth, the peach brings a sweet-tart brightness, and the grill gives everything that perfect smoky char.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/2 cup peach preserves
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Fresh peach slices (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, peach preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Set aside about 1/4 cup of this mixture in a separate small bowl for basting.
  2. Cut the chicken thighs into 1 1/2-inch chunks. Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade (not the reserved glaze) over the chicken, toss to coat, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  4. When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Thread the chicken chunks onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper, red onion, and fresh peach slices if using. Leave a tiny bit of space between pieces.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F to 450°F). Clean the grates well and oil them lightly.
  6. Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the reserved glaze over the skewers.
  7. Transfer the grilled skewers to a platter and let them rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Don’t rush the marinade; overnight is best. Keep the glaze separate to avoid cross-contamination. Oil the grates, not the food. Watch the sugar content as it caramelizes quickly. Let the skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon peach chicken skewers, BBQ chicken skewers, grilled chicken skewers, party appetizer, summer grilling