Best Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Bourbon Chicken is a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, bourbon-infused sauce.

This popular takeout-style dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or entertaining guests, this Bourbon Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Bourbon Sauce

1. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and water until well combined.
2. Cook the Sauce: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, pour the bourbon sauce mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and the alcohol from the bourbon has cooked off.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken pieces evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
2. Serve: Serve the Bourbon Chicken hot over a bed of cooked rice or with steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Fried Rice: Pair your Bourbon Chicken with fried rice for a complete takeout-style meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: A healthy and fresh side that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls make a great appetizer or side dish.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: A classic and refreshing option that pairs well with the sweet and savory flavors.
• Sake: For an interesting twist, pair your meal with a glass of chilled sake.
• Bourbon Cocktail: Enhance the bourbon flavor with a bourbon-based cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Bourbon

• What Kind of Bourbon to Use: While any bourbon will work, choosing a mid-range bourbon ensures you get good flavor without breaking the bank. Avoid using very cheap bourbon, as the quality can affect the taste of the dish.

Controlling the Sweetness

• Adjusting the Sugar: If you prefer your Bourbon Chicken less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey. You can also balance the sweetness with a bit more vinegar or soy sauce.

Cooking the Chicken

• Browning the Chicken: Make sure your skillet is hot enough to brown the chicken, which adds depth of flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.

Conclusion

This Bourbon Chicken recipe brings together the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and rich flavors, making it a dish that’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this takeout favorite in the comfort of your home. Serve it over rice, with vegetables, or with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Bourbon Chicken without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Is Bourbon Chicken spicy?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Can I freeze Bourbon Chicken?

Yes, Bourbon Chicken freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Yield: 4

Best Bourbon Chicken Recipe

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Bourbon Chicken is a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, bourbon-infused sauce. This popular takeout-style dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you're cooking for a family meal or entertaining guests, this Bourbon Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
   
2. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the bourbon and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
   
3. Thicken the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet, stirring constantly, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
   
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
   
5. Serve:
   Serve the bourbon chicken over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions.

Notes

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts can also be used if desired.

Bourbon: The alcohol content in the bourbon will cook off, leaving behind a rich, smoky flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute with apple juice or chicken broth.

Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.

Spice Level: The red pepper flakes add a mild heat; feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a side of green beans, or even a simple salad for a complete meal.