Fireball Chicken

Fireball Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a sweet and spicy glaze made from Fireball Cinnamon Whisky. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a kick to their grilled chicken, making it an excellent choice for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of cinnamon whisky and jalapeño pepper jelly creates a sweet and spicy glaze that’s unlike any other.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling or baking, this recipe adapts to your preferred cooking method.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Its distinctive flavor makes it a conversation starter at gatherings and parties.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
• ½ cup ketchup
• ⅓ cup jalapeño pepper jelly
• ¼ cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, jalapeño pepper jelly, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, butter, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cooled sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 425°F (220°C).
5. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 7-9 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste with Sauce: During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved sauce to enhance the flavor.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Version: Add extra jalapeño pepper jelly or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
• Alcohol-Free: Substitute the Fireball Cinnamon Whisky with apple juice and a pinch of ground cinnamon for a non-alcoholic version.
• Different Cuts: Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts for a juicier alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

What is Fireball Cinnamon Whisky?

Fireball Cinnamon Whisky is a Canadian whisky infused with cinnamon flavor, known for its sweet and spicy taste.

Can I use a different type of whisky?

Yes, but the unique cinnamon flavor of Fireball adds a distinctive taste to the dish. Using a different whisky will alter the flavor profile.

Is the alcohol content a concern?

The alcohol in the whisky cooks off during the grilling process, leaving behind the flavor without the alcohol content.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the marinated chicken for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What sides pair well with Fireball Chicken?

Consider serving with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad to complement the flavors.

How can I make the dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of jalapeño pepper jelly or substitute it with a milder jelly like apricot or peach.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Is it necessary to marinate overnight?

While overnight marination enhances the flavor, marinating for at least 2 hours will still yield delicious results.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in pieces take longer to cook through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Fireball Chicken offers a delightful twist on traditional grilled chicken, infusing it with a sweet and spicy glaze that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers both taste and simplicity. Enjoy the unique combination of flavors and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

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