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Crispy Bourbon BBQ Glazed Chicken Thighs

bourbon bbq glazed chicken thighs - featured image
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This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, smoky chicken thighs with a sticky bourbon BBQ glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and full of bold flavor. Easy to prepare and perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (60 ml)
  • 3/4 cup smoky BBQ sauce (180 ml), recommended Stubbs Smokey Mesquite
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until sugar dissolves. Set aside. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  3. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. If using a grill, prepare for direct heat cooking. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. (Approx. 3-4 minutes)
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down carefully in the hot skillet or on the grill. Press gently with tongs to ensure even contact. Cook for about 7-9 minutes without moving to develop a golden, crispy crust. The skin will naturally release from the pan when ready. (Approx. 8 minutes)
  5. Flip the chicken thighs and cook the other side for 5 minutes. Then reduce heat to medium or move thighs to indirect heat on the grill. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  6. Brush a generous layer of the bourbon BBQ glaze over the chicken. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize, then brush again. Repeat glazing 2-3 times for sticky, layered flavor. Watch closely to avoid burning. (Approx. 8-10 minutes total)
  7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If not there yet, cover loosely and cook a few minutes longer. (Approx. 2-3 minutes)
  8. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired before serving. (Approx. 5 minutes)

Notes

Pat chicken dry thoroughly for crispy skin. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning. Apply glaze after flipping the chicken to prevent burnt sugar. Manage flare-ups on the grill with a spray bottle of water. Let chicken rest before serving for juicy results. Optionally finish cooking in a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes if not using a grill.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon chicken, BBQ chicken thighs, crispy chicken, grilled chicken, bourbon BBQ glaze, smoky chicken, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/crispy-bourbon-bbq-glazed-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-smoky-char/