Bourbon Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Bourbon Chicken is a delicious and easy dish you can prepare at home. It combines sweet and savory flavors that are satisfying and comforting. The mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and bourbon creates a rich sauce that enhances the tender chicken. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, it pairs well with rice, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Bourbon Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, garlic, ginger, and black pepper to create the sauce.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
6. Serve over rice and garnish with green onions.

How to Serve Bourbon Chicken

Bourbon Chicken is best served hot, right after cooking. Place a scoop of rice on a plate and top it with the Bourbon Chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. This dish is great for lunch or dinner, and you can enjoy it alone or with a side of vegetables.

How to Store Bourbon Chicken

To store leftover Bourbon Chicken, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Bourbon Chicken

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the sauce for 1-2 hours before cooking.
• Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.
• If you like your sauce thicker, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variation

You can make Bourbon Chicken with different types of meat, such as chicken breasts or even shrimp. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using a low-sodium soy sauce. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use other types of alcohol instead of bourbon?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with other liquors like whiskey or rum. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor a bit.

Is Bourbon Chicken spicy?
No, Bourbon Chicken is not typically spicy. It has a sweet and savory flavor profile, but you can add some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Bourbon Chicken ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Bourbon Chicken

This Bourbon Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce with a hint of bourbon. It's a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful blend of Asian-inspired flavors.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings 4 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• large skillet
• mixing bowls

Ingredients

  

Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

Sauce

• 0.5 cup bourbon
• 0.5 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 0.25 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water for slurry

Garnish (Optional)

• sesame seeds for garnish
• chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

 

Prepare the Chicken

• Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces, pat them dry, and toss with flour until lightly coated.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side; remove chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using.
• In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
• Add the sauce mixture to the same skillet and bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.

Combine and Serve

• Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired, and serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but adjust cooking time to avoid over-drying. Serve with steamed rice or noodles and a side of your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.