Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Craving a flavorful, tender chicken dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors? This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe delivers all that and more! Named after Bourbon Street in New Orleans, not because it’s soaked in bourbon (though it does have a splash of it), this dish combines chicken with a delicious sticky glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The result is a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Best of all, it’s made in one pan, which makes cleanup a breeze. Read on for the full recipe and tips!

What is "Bourbon Chicken"?

Bourbon Chicken is a popular dish typically found in mall food courts and Chinese-American restaurants. It features tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a sweet and savory glaze made from a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and bourbon (or broth if you prefer to skip the alcohol). Despite its name, the dish isn’t overly boozy—the bourbon adds a subtle depth of flavor that balances the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce.

Ingredients List for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make Easy Bourbon Chicken at home:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• ¼ cup bourbon (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium is recommended)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (to mix with cornstarch)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, and you can adapt it based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat.
• No Bourbon? No Problem: If you want to skip the bourbon, you can replace it with chicken broth or apple juice for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, stir in sautéed veggies like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to make it a complete meal.
• Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha for some extra heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe comes together in just a few simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this helps with browning). Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan). Sear the chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet (with the browned bits still in the pan), reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is coated in the delicious bourbon sauce, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot over white rice, brown rice, or noodles, and enjoy!

How to Cook Easy Bourbon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

To make sure your Easy Bourbon Chicken comes out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

1. Use a Hot Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This will give the chicken a nice sear and help it develop a deep flavor.
2. Deglaze with Bourbon: After searing the chicken, deglaze the pan with the bourbon. This helps loosen all the flavorful browned bits (called fond) from the bottom of the skillet and adds depth to the sauce.
3. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you like a thicker sauce, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry. If you prefer a thinner glaze, simply let the sauce simmer down without thickening.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Easy Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you overcrowd the skillet, the chicken will steam rather than sear. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to get that golden-brown color.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts, in particular, can dry out if overcooked. Keep an eye on the chicken to make sure it’s cooked through but still tender.
• Skipping the Cornstarch: If you like your sauces thick and sticky, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry! It’s key to creating that luscious, glossy finish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a vibrant dish, and with a little extra effort, you can make it look as good as it tastes:

• Serve Over Rice: Bourbon chicken pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even fried rice. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• With Vegetables: Serve alongside or on top of stir-fried or steamed veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to add color and texture.
• Top with Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a fresh finish and an appealing presentation.

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

Once your Easy Bourbon Chicken is ready, serve it immediately while hot. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Over Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice for a classic take. White, jasmine, or even fried rice work well.
• With Noodles: Toss the chicken with rice noodles or egg noodles for a delicious spin.
• As a Bowl: Create a bourbon chicken bowl with a base of rice or quinoa, then add the chicken and sauce along with veggies like roasted broccoli or sautéed peppers.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Use a White Plate: Serve the bourbon chicken on a white plate or bowl to highlight the rich, caramel-colored sauce.
• Add Color: Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or parsley for a pop of green. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top for extra texture and presentation.
• Serve Family-Style: For a casual gathering, serve the chicken in a large skillet or bowl in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.

Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet, add the cooked chicken, and you’ve got a quick dinner ready to go.
• Leftovers: Store leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.
• Freeze It: Bourbon chicken freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe without bourbon?
Yes! If you’d prefer to skip the bourbon, you can replace it with chicken broth or apple juice. You’ll still get a delicious, sweet, and savory sauce.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breasts are leaner than thighs and cook a little faster, so be careful not to overcook them. Both cuts work well in this dish.

3. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for some extra heat. You can also serve it with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
If using chicken breasts, avoid overcooking by searing them until just done. Cooking the chicken in the sauce at the end also helps keep it moist and tender.

Conclusion

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to bring the sweet, savory, and sticky flavors of a takeout favorite into their own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining friends, this dish will not disappoint. With its tender chicken, delicious sauce, and quick cooking time, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious Easy Bourbon Chicken! 🍽

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