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Cozy Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken Skewers

bourbon peach chicken skewers - featured image

Sweet and smoky chicken skewers with a bourbon peach BBQ glaze, grilled to perfection in under 30 minutes. A quick and easy summer dinner that feels special without the stress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup peach preserves
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 ripe peaches (fresh or frozen, thawed and patted dry if frozen)
  • 1 red onion
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Make the Bourbon Peach BBQ Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine peach preserves, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Whisk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside half for serving.
  2. Prep the Chicken and Fruit: Cut chicken thighs into 1.5-inch chunks. Pat dry with paper towels. Cut peaches into wedges (6-8 per peach). Cut red onion into chunks, separating layers slightly.
  3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread chicken, peach wedges, and onion chunks onto skewers, alternating and leaving a little space between pieces. Start and end with chicken. Makes about 6-8 skewers.
  4. Season and Oil the Skewers: Brush skewers lightly with olive oil on all sides. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  5. Grill the Skewers: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Clean and oil grates. Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature) and peaches are softened with char marks.
  6. Glaze in the Final Minutes: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush reserved glaze generously over skewers. Flip and brush the other side. Let caramelize slightly, watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Serve with reserved glaze on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Use ripe but firm peaches. Glaze at the end to avoid burning the sugar. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with apple juice and a splash of vanilla extract. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

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