Recipe for honey bourbon barbecue chicken

If you’re searching for a delicious meal that combines sweetness and smoky undertones, look no further than honey bourbon chicken. This mouthwatering dish brings together the bold flavors of bourbon and soy sauce with the natural sweetness of honey and brown sugar. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prepping, this recipe is both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you grill it outdoors or cook it in your kitchen, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home.

With a balance of tender, juicy chicken and a sticky, flavorful glaze, this recipe suits various diets and occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or preparing meals for the week, this chicken recipe has you covered.

If you’re in the mood for other delicious dinner ideas, check out our Dinner Recipes category for more inspiration.

recipe for honey bourbon barbecue chicken

Ingredients Overview

The magic of this dish lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:

Chicken breasts: These provide a lean, high-protein base for the recipe. If you want a juicier cut, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative.
Honey: Adds sweetness and helps form the signature sticky glaze.
Bourbon: Gives a subtle warmth and depth to the marinade. Don’t worry—the alcohol will cook off, leaving only a delicious, rich flavor.
Soy sauce: Adds umami flavor, balancing the sweetness of the honey and brown sugar while giving the chicken a beautiful, rich color.
Brown sugar: Helps caramelize the glaze, adding a deep, rich sweetness to the dish.

Substitutes: For those who are gluten-sensitive, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce. If you’re avoiding alcohol, apple cider can replace the bourbon, adding a similar depth of flavor.

For more recipes featuring these ingredients, visit our Lunch section.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of the essential kitchen tools and equipment you’ll need to make your honey bourbon chicken:

Large Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Cast iron pan or grill: These tools help you achieve that perfect caramelized crust on the chicken.
Tongs: Use these to flip the chicken without puncturing the meat, keeping the juices intact.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients like honey, bourbon, and soy sauce.

Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a nonstick skillet or oven-safe pan to cook the chicken. An oven broiler can also give you a nice char.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large Ziploc bag, combine ¼ cup honey, ¼ cup bourbon, ⅓ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and a pinch of black pepper.
Add 4 chicken breasts to the bag, seal it, and gently shake to evenly coat the chicken with the marinade.
Refrigerate the bag for at least 2 hours or, for best results, let it marinate overnight.

Step 2: Prepare to Cook

Preheat your grill or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off, and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while the grill or pan heats up.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grill or cook the chicken breasts in the pan for 6-7 minutes on each side, until they have a nice golden-brown crust.
If you have extra marinade, baste the chicken as it cooks to intensify the flavors.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the heat and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Flavor Variations and Additions

This honey bourbon chicken recipe is flexible, allowing for various customizations to suit different tastes:

Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herb-infused: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or cilantro for a fresh, herbal flavor.
Vegan alternative: For a plant-based version, swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly dish.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Here are some expert tips to ensure your honey bourbon chicken comes out perfectly every time:

Marinate overnight: For the richest flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavors penetrate.
Pound the chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for faster, more uniform cooking.
Baste the chicken: As the chicken cooks, brush on any remaining marinade to intensify the flavor and achieve a beautifully sticky glaze.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

This honey bourbon chicken recipe provides a healthy balance of protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories: ~320 per serving
Protein: 27g per serving
Fat: 9g per serving
Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

The honey adds a natural source of energy, while the chicken breast delivers lean protein to keep you full and satisfied. Soy sauce contributes essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

Learn more about the health benefits of soy sauce from this trusted article.

Serving Suggestions

To make this meal even more memorable, consider serving your honey bourbon chicken with:

Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts.
A side of mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread.
A refreshing green salad for a light and balanced meal.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a pan over low heat or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Freezing: The chicken can be frozen, either marinated or cooked, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can this recipe be made ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for meal planning.

What if I don’t have bourbon? No worries! You can substitute apple cider, additional soy sauce, or a splash of apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.

Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Conclusion

The sweet and smoky combination of honey, bourbon, and soy sauce makes honey bourbon chicken a standout dish. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking inside, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. With options for customization and variations, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Ready to elevate your dinner game? Try this recipe tonight and share your experience in the comments!