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Grilled Bourbon Chicken

A delicious and easy recipe for grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and smoky bourbon glaze that delights the taste buds.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Grilled
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/2 cup low sodium or gluten-free soy sauce Adds depth and umami flavor without excessive salt.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce Provides natural sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion Contributes aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 3 cloves garlic Adds a fragrant, savory quality.
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil Serves as a base for the marinade.
  • 1/2 cup bourbon Infuses sweetness and complexity.
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce Enhances flavor with sweetness and tanginess.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Balances sweetness with acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar Enhances sweetness and caramelizes during grilling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adds a hint of heat.
  • 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth Helps to thin the sauce.
Main Ingredient
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Main protein ensuring a tender and juicy result.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons sliced scallions Used for freshness and color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pound the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a Ziploc bag and pound to an even thickness.
  2. Make the marinade by mixing soy sauce, apple sauce, onion, ginger, garlic, oil, bourbon, BBQ sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
  3. Marinate the chicken by reserving 1/3 cup of marinade and adding the remainder to the bag with chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
  4. Preheat the grill over medium-high heat.
Cooking
  1. Discard the marinade and grill chicken for 4 minutes per side until cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  2. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain juices.
  3. Prepare the sauce by heating the reserved marinade with chicken broth in a saucepan until boiling, then reduce heat and thicken for 5-6 minutes.
  4. Serve the chicken topped with sauce and garnished with scallions.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Ensure the grill is hot before adding the chicken for a great sear. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—165°F internally.