What makes the Spicy Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs different from traditional BBQ chicken?

This recipe is special because it combines maple syrup and bourbon. This mix creates a unique flavor that's sweet, smoky, and a bit spicy. It's more complex and tasty than regular BBQ chicken.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can make it without a grill. You can use an oven or a cast-iron skillet. For the oven, cook at 425°F and then broil to get that sticky, caramelized outside.

How long should I marinate the chicken thighs?

Marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours for good flavor. But, for the best taste, marinate overnight (8-12 hours). This lets the sauce soak into the meat, making it tender and flavorful.

Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat level?

The recipe has a moderate heat level. You can make it milder by using less hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Or, add more chili flakes or hot sauce for more heat. It's easy to adjust to your liking.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Spicy Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs?

Pair the chicken with grilled corn, sweet potato wedges, or a summer slaw. For a full meal, try tangy coleslaw or a light salad. These sides match the sweet and spicy flavors.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep it crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent it from getting soggy.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can use chicken breasts, but they dry out faster. Cook them quickly and check the temperature to keep them moist. Thighs are better for their juiciness and flavor.

What type of bourbon works best in this recipe?

Choose a mid-range bourbon for the best flavor. Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey, or Buffalo Trace are good choices. The bourbon should add depth to the marinade without overpowering it.

Spicy Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs: 7 Amazing Grilling Secrets

Name: Spicy Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs - Ultimate Grilling Recipe Guide
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American BBQ
Ingredients: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/3 cup bourbon; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons New Hampshire maple syrup; 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Description

These Spicy Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs combine New Hampshire maple syrup with smoky bourbon for the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Perfect for summer grilling and backyard barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/3 cup bourbon

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons New Hampshire maple syrup

1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. Remove excess fat from chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels

2. In a non-reactive bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, ginger, garlic, and optional seasonings

3. Place chicken thighs in marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated

4. Marinate for minimum 2-4 hours, preferably overnight (8-12 hours) in refrigerator

5. Preheat grill to 1,000°F and create two-zone cooking setup (high heat and medium heat zones)

6. Remove chicken from marinade and let come to room temperature for 15 minutes

7. Sear chicken thighs over high heat zone for 2-3 minutes per side to create caramelized crust

8. Move chicken to medium heat zone and continue cooking, basting with reserved marinade

9. Cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F (about 15-20 minutes total)

10. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving

11. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately

Notes

For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they stay juicier than breasts

Choose mid-range bourbon like Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey, or Buffalo Trace for optimal flavor

Can be made in oven at 425°F if grill not available – broil at end for caramelization

Adjust spice level by adding more or less chipotle powder and hot sauce

Leftover chicken stores in refrigerator for 3-4 days in airtight container

Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispy texture – avoid microwave

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American BBQ

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 chicken thighs
Calories: 385
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 165mg