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.
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.