Cherry Bomb Chicken

A Spicy and Flavorful Grilled Delight

Introduction

If you love bold flavors and a touch of heat in your meals, then this Cherry Bomb Chicken recipe is for you! This dish perfectly balances the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the fiery kick of habanero peppers. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a new way to spice up your weeknight dinner, this recipe will be a showstopper on your table.

With a unique brining process that infuses every bite with a sweet and spicy punch, this grilled chicken is juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is perfect for those who:

  • Enjoy bold, spicy flavors with a touch of sweetness.
  • Want a juicy and tender grilled chicken recipe.
  • Are looking for an impressive yet simple meal to make for family and friends.
  • Love grilling and outdoor cooking.

Whether you’re a grilling pro or a beginner, this Cherry Bomb Chicken is easy to master, and the results are well worth it!

Ingredients

  • 1 quart cold water
  • ½ cup white sugar
  • ⅓ cup kosher salt
  • 1 (4-pound) whole chicken, cut into 4 pieces
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 3 habanero peppers, seeded
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons prepared Thai sweet chili sauce

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Blender (for making the tomato brine)
  • Large bowl or lidded container (for brining the chicken)
  • Saucepan (for dissolving the sugar and salt)
  • Grill (outdoor preferred, but an indoor grill pan works too)
  • Tongs (for flipping the chicken)
  • Basting brush (for applying the oil and seasoning mixture)
  • Instant-read thermometer (to check doneness)
  • Paper towels (for patting dry the chicken)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

  1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine water, sugar, and kosher salt. Stir and cook until the sugar and salt dissolve (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Score and Marinate the Chicken

  1. Using a sharp knife, lightly score the skin side of each chicken piece (about 1/8-inch deep). Place the chicken in a large bowl or container.
  2. In a blender, combine cherry tomatoes, habanero peppers, garlic, and allspice with the cooled brine mixture. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour the tomato brine over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 4-6 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken for Grilling

  1. Remove the chicken from the brine, shaking off any excess. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
  2. Preheat an outdoor grill to high, indirect heat, and lightly oil the grate.
  3. In a small bowl, mix vegetable oil, thyme, cumin, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Brush onto the chicken pieces.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken skin-side down on the hot grill for 1-2 minutes to get a nice sear.
  2. Flip the chicken and move it to indirect heat. Cook until well-browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 30-35 minutes.
  3. Brush with Thai sweet chili sauce and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cherry Bomb Chicken with:

  • Coconut rice for a tropical twist.
  • Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn.
  • A fresh mango salsa to balance the heat.
  • Cold beer, lemonade, or a chilled white wine to complement the spicy notes.

Storage & Leftovers

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Leftover chicken can also be shredded and used in tacos, sandwiches, or salads.

Recipe Variations & Tips

  • Milder Version: Substitute habanero peppers with jalapeños or reduce the number of habaneros used.
  • Oven Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes for crispy skin.
  • Extra Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the spice mix.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use the marinade on grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms.

FAQ

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! You can marinate it overnight, but don’t exceed 12 hours as the acidity may begin breaking down the meat too much.

How do I make this less spicy?

Reduce or omit the habanero peppers and use milder chili varieties like serranos or poblanos.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs will cook faster (about 15-20 minutes total).

What if I don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce?

You can substitute it with a mix of honey and sriracha for a similar sweet-heat effect.

Conclusion

This Cherry Bomb Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and grilled perfection. The combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy elements makes it an instant favorite for any barbecue or weeknight dinner.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow food lovers and subscribe for more delicious, high-flavor recipes. Happy grilling! 🔥🍗

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