Print

Flavorful Peach Bourbon BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

peach bourbon bbq chicken drumsticks - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy summer cookout recipe featuring chicken drumsticks glazed with a tangy, sweet peach bourbon BBQ sauce that delivers smoky, caramelized flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on, bone-in
  • 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and chopped (or frozen peaches as substitute)
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky, slightly tangy, store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add chopped peaches, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until peaches soften and release juices.
  4. Pour in bourbon carefully and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly and peaches break down.
  5. Stir in BBQ sauce and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use an immersion blender for a smoother sauce if desired.
  6. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat with a little oil. Sear drumsticks 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
  7. Transfer seared drumsticks to a preheated grill at medium heat. Grill for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. Begin basting with peach bourbon BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes every few minutes.
  8. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Skin should be sticky, caramelized, and slightly charred.
  9. Remove drumsticks from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Start basting sauce after 10-15 minutes on the grill to prevent burning. Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. For oven option, bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: peach bourbon BBQ chicken, chicken drumsticks, summer cookout recipe, BBQ chicken glaze, bourbon chicken, peach BBQ sauce

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/flavorful-peach-bourbon-bbq-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-easy-and-best-for-summer-cookouts/