Cherry Bomb Chicken

Cherry Bomb Chicken is a fiery yet flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of cherry tomatoes with the heat of habanero peppers for an unforgettable grilling experience. The secret to this recipe’s juiciness lies in the brining process, ensuring each piece of chicken comes out tender and packed with flavor. This recipe isn’t just for spice lovers — it’s for anyone who enjoys bold, delicious meals with a touch of sweetness and heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The brining process takes this chicken to the next level, infusing it with moisture and flavor, so every bite is juicy and tender. The cherry tomatoes add a surprising sweetness that balances out the fiery kick from the habanero peppers. The grilling technique creates a crispy, flavorful skin, and the Thai sweet chili sauce adds an extra layer of richness. This dish offers the perfect combination of heat, sweet, and savory, making it ideal for grilling season or any time you crave something special.

Ingredients

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

• 1 quart cold water

• ½ cup white sugar

• ⅓ cup kosher salt

• 1 (4-pound) whole chicken, cut into 4 pieces

• 1 container 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

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and kosher salt. Heat over low heat for 4 to 5 minutes until the sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and set aside to cool to room temperature.

2. Score the skin side of the chicken pieces 2 to 3 times, about ⅛-inch deep, and place them in a large bowl or lidded container.

3. In a blender, combine the cherry tomatoes, habanero peppers, garlic, and allspice with the cooled sugar-salt mixture. Blend until smooth.

4. Pour the tomato brine over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are covered. Cover the bowl or container and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours.

5. After brining, remove the chicken pieces from the brine, shaking off excess. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with paper towels and pat dry.

6. Preheat an outdoor grill for high, indirect heat and lightly oil the grate.

7. In a small bowl, combine the vegetable oil, thyme, cumin, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Brush this mixture onto the chicken pieces.

8. Place the chicken pieces on the grill over direct heat, skin side down, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Flip the chicken and move to indirect heat. Cook for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is well-browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

9. Brush the chicken with Thai sweet chili sauce and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Additional time: 4 hours 40 minutes (for brining)

• Total time: 5 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Milder Cherry Bomb Chicken: Reduce or omit the habanero peppers for a less spicy version of the dish.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or thick slices of eggplant, brined and grilled with the same seasoning.

• Sweet and Spicy Kick: For added sweetness, drizzle extra Thai sweet chili sauce on the chicken just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it on the grill, but be careful not to dry it out.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they will cook faster. Be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

How can I make this recipe less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, use fewer habanero peppers or replace them with a milder pepper like a bell pepper or poblano. You can also reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.

Can I make the brine ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brine in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it come to room temperature before using it for brining the chicken.

Can I grill this chicken on a gas grill?

Yes, you can use a gas grill. Just be sure to set up two zones: one for direct heat and one for indirect heat, as specified in the directions.

How do I prevent the chicken skin from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is preheated and oiled before placing the chicken on it. Also, avoid moving the chicken too soon — let it cook for a minute or two before flipping.

Can I use a different type of chili sauce?

You can substitute the Thai sweet chili sauce with other types of sweet chili sauce, or even a homemade version, for a different flavor profile.

How long should I let the chicken rest before serving?

Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender bite.

Can I brine the chicken overnight?

Yes, you can brine the chicken overnight, but be mindful of the time as too long in the brine may make the chicken too salty. Ideally, aim for 4 to 6 hours.

Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Cherry Bomb Chicken brings together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The brining process ensures a juicy and tender chicken that’s full of bold flavors, while the grilling method gives it that delicious charred crispness. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just craving something exciting for dinner, this recipe will surely impress. Enjoy the fiery kick and juicy goodness with every bite!