Mildly Sweet Whiskey Chicken is a deliciously balanced dish that combines the deep, smoky notes of whiskey with a hint of sweetness from honey and brown sugar. The chicken is marinated and then glazed as it cooks, resulting in juicy, tender meat with a caramelized, slightly sticky exterior. The addition of garlic and a splash of soy sauce gives this dish an extra depth of flavor, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, adding a subtle warmth to your table with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup whiskey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the whiskey, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
- Cook the Chicken:
- If grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the leftover marinade, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If baking, transfer the chicken and marinade to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway through.
- Glaze and Serve:
- As the chicken cooks, the marinade will form a slightly sticky, caramelized glaze. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Mildly Sweet Whiskey Chicken is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, making it a mouthwatering choice for family dinners or special occasions. Its balanced flavor profile is sure to be a hit!