Ingredients for Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The hearty base for this Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken. Thighs stay juicy and flavorful. Pat dry for best searing.
• 1 ½ cups Dr Pepper (original, not diet): The star ingredient, providing a unique sweet and spiced foundation. Use original for proper caramelization and flavor depth.
• ½ cup cherry preserves: Delivers the vibrant cherry flavor and sticky sweetness essential for the glaze. All-fruit preserves work beautifully here.
• ¼ cup ketchup: Adds tangy depth and a classic BBQ sauce consistency to the glaze. A good quality brand enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Boosts umami, adds savory depth, and helps tenderize the chicken. Low-sodium is great for better salt control.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Cuts through the sweetness, balancing the rich flavors and tenderizing the chicken. Essential for brightness.
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar: Contributes to the sticky glaze and adds a molasses-rich sweetness. Essential for that perfect caramelized crust.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides pungent aromatic depth, a foundational flavor builder for any savory dish. Freshly minced garlic is always best.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a concentrated, sweet onion flavor without the moisture. A convenient way to add savory complexity.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex, savory, and slightly tangy note, deepening the marinade’s flavor profile. Don’t skip this secret weapon.
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Introduces a warm, zesty, and slightly peppery kick that complements the cherry beautifully. Grate finely for even distribution.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors in this grilled chicken. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle peppery warmth and a touch of spice. Freshly ground provides superior aroma and flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a beautiful smoky aroma and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the grilled flavor. A must for depth.

How to Make Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken

Mix Liquids:

In a bowl, combine Dr Pepper, cherry preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. This forms the delicious base for your Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken marinade. Whisk well to ensure everything is incorporated smoothly.

Whisk Spices:

Now, whisk in the brown sugar, minced garlic, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and grated fresh ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves and all the aromatic flavors are fully blended into the liquid mixture.

Marinate Chicken:

Pour half of the marinade over the chicken thighs in a shallow dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, letting the chicken soak up those delicious flavors. This ensures a tender Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken.

Simmer Glaze:

Transfer the remaining half of the marinade to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a sticky, glossy glaze. This concentrated goodness is key for your Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken.

Grill & Baste:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, basting frequently with the reduced glaze during the last few minutes. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is beautifully caramelized.

Rest & Serve:

Remove the grilled Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, flavorful results. Garnish as desired and serve immediately.

How to Store Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken

Cooked Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken should be refrigerated promptly. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days to keep them fresh. Leaving it out too long can lead to spoilage – a mistake I’ve made! Discard if it smells sour or feels slimy, ensuring food safety.

You can marinate chicken up to 4 hours ahead. The glaze can be made and refrigerated for 2 days; gently reheat before basting. For optimal flavor and texture, grill the chicken fresh just before serving.

Store chicken and extra glaze separately. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

What to Serve with Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken

To serve this delicious Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken, simply slice and arrange it on a platter. It’s perfect for any gathering. Garnish with fresh cherries or parsley for a vibrant touch. This dish is best enjoyed warm and pairs wonderfully with a crisp coleslaw or a light green salad.

I personally love to serve it pulled into sliders on brioche buns with extra glaze; it’s perfect for sharing! You can also enjoy it alongside roasted sweet potatoes, as their earthy sweetness truly complements the sticky glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute regular soda for Dr Pepper in this grilled chicken recipe?

No, I strongly recommend using original Dr Pepper. Diet soda won’t caramelize properly, leading to a runny glaze. Other sodas will alter the unique flavor profile of this grilled chicken. Trust me, the original is essential here.

→ How do I prevent the Cherry Dr Pepper glaze from burning on the grill?

To prevent the Cherry Dr Pepper glaze from burning, only baste the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling. The high sugar content can caramelize quickly. Keep a close eye on it and adjust heat if needed; burnt sauce is bitter!

→ Can I freeze leftover Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken for later meals?

Yes, you can freeze cooked Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat, though the texture might be slightly softer.

→ What if I don’t have an outdoor grill to make this chicken?

If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can cook this chicken in a hot oven or on a grill pan. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, basting often until cooked through. It won’t have the smoky flavor, but is still delicious.

→ Can I easily double the ingredients for more servings of this recipe?

Absolutely, you can easily double the ingredients for more servings of this Flavor-Packed Cherry Dr Pepper Grilled Chicken. Just ensure you have a large enough marinating dish and a bigger saucepan for the glaze. Adjust grilling time slightly if cooking more pieces.