Michigan Cherry Bourbon BBQ Chicken on the Grill

Introduction

Enjoy juicy, flavorful Michigan Cherry Bourbon BBQ Chicken grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The rich cherry-bourbon glaze caramelizes beautifully over the open flame, ensuring every bite is packed with smoky-sweet goodness.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup Michigan cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to build.
5. Wait about 20 minutes until the cooktop reaches optimal temperature.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Bourbon BBQ Sauce

1. On the Arteflame’s flat cooktop, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the cherries and cook until they start to break down.
3. Stir in bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer the sauce directly on the cooktop, stirring occasionally until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter on the cooktop.
3. Place the chicken skin-side down on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
4. Sear for about 2 minutes per side to develop a deep golden crust.

Step 4: Finish Grilling the Chicken

1. Move the seared chicken to the flat cooktop to continue cooking indirectly.
2. Brush the chicken generously with the cherry bourbon BBQ sauce.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally and reapplying sauce.
4. Monitor the internal temperature; remove from heat when it reaches 160°F.
5. Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes so it reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Brush with more BBQ sauce before serving.
2. Pair with grilled vegetables, corn, or roasted potatoes.
3. Enjoy your juicy, smoky Michigan Cherry Bourbon BBQ Chicken!

Tips

• Use fresh Michigan cherries for the best flavor.
• For extra smoky flavor, choose hardwood like cherry or hickory.
• Let the chicken rest to ensure juicy, tender meat.
• Grill extra sauce for a thicker, caramelized glaze.
• Keep an eye on caramelization to avoid burning the sugars.

Variations

1. Spicy Cherry Bourbon Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Honey Mustard Cherry Chicken: Replace brown sugar with honey and add 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard.
3. Smoky Maple Cherry Chicken: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup and add an extra dash of smoked paprika.
4. Applewood Cherry Chicken: Use applewood smoke and add a splash of apple juice for a fruity twist.
5. Balsamic Cherry Chicken: Replace apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a richer depth.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet corn with butter
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Grilled asparagus with parmesan
• Homemade coleslaw
• Chilled bourbon lemonade

Conclusion

Grilling Michigan Cherry Bourbon BBQ Chicken on the Arteflame ensures a perfectly seared and flavorful dish with an irresistible smoky-sweet glaze. Enjoy this dish with your favorite grilled sides for a memorable meal!