Introduction
Craving something sweet, sticky, and savory all at once? You’re going to love Bourbon Chicken! This dish is a tasty mix of tender chicken coated in a glossy sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and a touch of bourbon (or a simple substitute if you prefer non-alcoholic).
Even though it sounds fancy, Bourbon Chicken is super easy to make at home. It’s a popular dish at food courts and Chinese takeout spots, but once you try this version, you might not want to order out again. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a winner. Let’s jump in and learn how to make this mouthwatering recipe step by step.
Ingredients – Bourbon Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Easy Bourbon Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or olive oil)
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup bourbon (you can use apple juice if you want it alcohol-free)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Step by Step Process – Bourbon Chicken
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious chicken dish. It only takes about 30 minutes total!
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are golden and fully cooked. Stir often so nothing burns.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, bourbon (or apple juice), brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour this sauce into the pan with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together so the chicken is well coated.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chicken and sauce simmer for about 10–12 minutes. This lets all the flavors mix and soak into the chicken.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry.
Pour this into the skillet and stir it in well. - Keep cooking for another 2–3 minutes, until the sauce gets thick and shiny. Now it should look just like takeout!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Your Easy Bourbon Chicken is ready!
- Serve it over white rice, brown rice, or even noodles. You can add some steamed veggies on the side if you want.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Fiber | 0.5g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does bourbon chicken contain alcohol?
Yes, traditional bourbon chicken includes bourbon whiskey. But during cooking, most of the alcohol cooks off due to heat. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, apple juice or chicken broth makes a great substitute.
Q2: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breasts work too if you prefer a leaner cut.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q4: Can I freeze bourbon chicken?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Q5: What sides go well with bourbon chicken?
Steamed white rice is the classic choice. You can also serve it with fried rice, noodles, or steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
Final Thoughts
Easy Bourbon Chicken is one of those meals that hits the spot every time. It’s sweet, a little salty, rich with flavor, and incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even meal prepping for the week, this dish is always a good idea.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a chef to pull it off. Just grab a pan, toss in the chicken, mix up the sauce, and let the magic happen. Serve it with some fluffy rice, and you’ve got a dinner that everyone will ask for again and again.
So next time you’re not sure what to cook — give this Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
