Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Craving a dish that's packed with bold flavors but doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further than Bourbon Chicken, a favorite at malls and takeout joints across the country. With its sweet, savory, and slightly tangy sauce, Bourbon Chicken is a perfect meal that combines the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of brown sugar and a hint of soy sauce. The best part? This dish is incredibly easy to make at home, and you don’t need any complicated ingredients! Keep reading for the complete recipe, step-by-step instructions, and a few tips to make it your own.

this Recipe

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What Is Bourbon Chicken?

Bourbon Chicken is a popular dish named after Bourbon Street in New Orleans, not necessarily because it contains bourbon whiskey (though it often does). It’s known for its juicy, tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet, sticky, and flavorful sauce made with bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. The dish is often served over rice for a complete, satisfying meal. Even if you're new to cooking, this simple recipe will help you master it at home in no time.

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Ingredients List for Bourbon Chicken

To make this easy Bourbon Chicken recipe, you'll need just a few basic pantry ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Bourbon Sauce:

• ¼ cup bourbon whiskey
• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth (optional, to thin the sauce if needed)

For Thickening (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (to make a cornstarch slurry)

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

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Substitutions and Variations

Want to adjust this recipe to your taste or what you have on hand? Here are some ideas:

• No Bourbon? If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can skip the bourbon and still get a delicious dish. Substitute with more chicken broth or even apple juice for a sweeter version.
• Chicken Breasts vs. Thighs: While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts work just as well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
• Add Vegetables: To make this a complete meal, stir in vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas when simmering the sauce.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up Bourbon Chicken in less than 30 minutes:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken thighs (or breasts) into bite-sized pieces. Season with a little salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches if your pan isn’t large enough. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bourbon Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it; you want those delicious browned bits), reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, pour in the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the ingredients together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes to allow the alcohol in the bourbon to evaporate and the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the sauce and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the bourbon sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve your Bourbon Chicken over steamed rice for a delicious, satisfying meal.

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

Here’s a quick guide to ensure your Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

1. Sear the Chicken First: Searing the chicken before simmering in the sauce locks in the juices and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
2. Simmer the Sauce: Allow the bourbon sauce to simmer for a few minutes so the alcohol can cook off and the sauce thickens and develops a rich flavor.
3. Adjust Sweetness and Salt: Taste the sauce as it simmers. If it’s too salty, add a little more brown sugar or water. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, work in batches if needed. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can dry out if overcooked, especially if using chicken breasts. Keep an eye on the cooking time and make sure the chicken remains tender.
• Not Letting the Sauce Reduce: Allow the sauce to reduce properly by simmering it for a few minutes. This will concentrate the flavors and give it that classic sticky texture.
• Skipping the Cornstarch: If you want a thick, sticky sauce like the one you get at restaurants, don’t forget to add the cornstarch slurry. It helps the sauce cling to the chicken.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Bourbon Chicken is best served with simple sides that let the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken shine through. Here are some serving ideas:

How to Serve Bourbon Chicken:

• Over Rice: Serve your Bourbon Chicken over a bed of steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Stir-Fried Veggies: Pair the chicken with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a well-rounded meal.
• In a Bowl: Create a bourbon chicken rice bowl by layering rice, chicken, and veggies, then drizzle with extra sauce.

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Presentation Ideas for Bourbon Chicken:

• Garnish with Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a fresh, colorful touch and a subtle oniony flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.
• Sprinkle Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: For a more rustic, casual presentation, serve the Bourbon Chicken directly from the skillet for a family-style dinner.

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Bourbon Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: Bourbon Chicken reheats beautifully. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce to drizzle over rice or veggies, consider doubling the sauce ingredients. You’ll be glad you did!
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in a bit of the bourbon sauce (before adding cornstarch) for 30 minutes before cooking.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Bourbon Chicken without alcohol?
Yes! You can skip the bourbon altogether and substitute it with chicken broth or apple juice. You’ll still get a delicious sweet and tangy sauce without the alcohol.

2. What’s the best cut of chicken to use for Bourbon Chicken?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best choice because they stay juicy and flavorful. However, chicken breasts work just as well — just be mindful of cooking time to avoid drying them out.

3. Can I freeze Bourbon Chicken?
Absolutely! Bourbon Chicken freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

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Conclusion

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a fantastic go-to meal for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even meal prep for the week. With its sticky, sweet, and savory sauce, tender chicken, and simple ingredients, it's no wonder this dish is a favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can make it with or without alcohol, add your favorite veggies, and adjust the sweetness or spice level to your liking. Serve it over rice, and you’ve got a quick, delicious dinner the whole family will love. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of the

food court home tonight!

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