Name: Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Chicken Thighs (1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless: Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.); Cornstarch (2 tbsp: For a light coating to make the chicken crispy.); Bourbon (1/4 cup: Adds depth and flavor. Substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic option.); Soy Sauce (1/3 cup: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier twist.); Brown Sugar (1/3 cup: Swap with honey or coconut sugar for a natural alternative.); Garlic (3 cloves, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.); Ginger (1 tsp, grated: Use ground ginger if fresh isn’t available.); Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp: Adds a tangy balance to the sweetness.); Ketchup (2 tbsp: For a mild tomato base.); Chicken Stock (1/3 cup: Adds a savory depth.)

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If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor, this Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe has you covered. Bursting with a sweet and savory glaze, tender chicken bites, and a hint of bourbon, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Whether you’ve tried it in a food court or are new to bourbon chicken, this recipe will make you come back for more. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe anyone can master.

Cooking Time Breakdown

For busy cooks, time management is everything. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan efficiently when whipping up this bourbon chicken dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Time-Saving Tips:

Pre-chop your chicken and vegetables ahead of time for quicker preparation.
Measure your sauce ingredients before you start cooking to keep things seamless.

With just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools

Having the right kitchen tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe a breeze.

Non-Stick Skillet: Perfect for preventing sticking and getting evenly cooked chicken.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: These are essential for dicing chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Mixing Bowls: Great for preparing and combining your sauce ingredients.
Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the chicken and sauce without scratching your pans.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps ensure accurate proportions for the perfect flavor balance.

Having these kitchen essentials on hand will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a detailed list of everything you need to make this bourbon chicken recipe. Don’t worry if you don’t have a specific ingredient; we’ve included some handy alternatives!

Chicken Thighs (1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless): Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Cornstarch (2 tbsp): For a light coating to make the chicken crispy.
Bourbon (1/4 cup): Adds depth and flavor. Substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic option.
Soy Sauce (1/3 cup): Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier twist.
Brown Sugar (1/3 cup): Swap with honey or coconut sugar for a natural alternative.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Ginger (1 tsp, grated): Use ground ginger if fresh isn’t available.
Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a tangy balance to the sweetness.
Ketchup (2 tbsp): For a mild tomato base.
Chicken Stock (1/3 cup): Adds a savory depth.

You can also enhance the dish with red pepper flakes for spice or pineapple juice for extra sweetness. These healthy and easy-to-find ingredients make this dish customizable to suit your taste buds.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy directions to learn how to cook bourbon chicken at home. Each step is straightforward, so even beginners will find it fun!

1. Prepare the Chicken

Dice the chicken thighs into small, even pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel for better browning. Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch to coat lightly. This will create a crispy texture.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then remove and set aside.

3. Whisk the Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup in a mixing bowl. If you like a thicker sauce, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water before cooking.

4. Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over. Stir well to coat every piece. Lower the heat to medium and allow the mixture to simmer for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken beautifully.

5. Finish and Serve

Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and color before serving.

You’ve just created a restaurant-quality dish at home!

Creative Serving Ideas

Wondering how to enjoy your delicious bourbon chicken best? Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or fried rice to soak up all the savory sauce.
Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or top it onto quinoa for a healthier twist.
Garnish with sesame seeds or finely chopped cilantro for added flavor and presentation.

Whether you like it with carbs, veggies, or a mix of both, this versatile dish is sure to impress.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bourbon Chicken

Take your bourbon chicken to the next level with these professional recipe tips and variations!

For a Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Make it Extra Crispy: Double-coat the chicken in cornstarch and shallow-fry it for a crunchier bite.
Add Veggies: Throw in bell peppers, onions, or snap peas while simmering the sauce for extra nutrients.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, toss in some sriracha, chili paste, or red pepper flakes.

A small tweak can totally transform the dish into something uniquely yours!

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (based on a 4-person meal):

Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g

This dish balances protein and flavor, making it a great option for a hearty yet moderate-calorie meal.

Storage and Leftover Hacks

Made too much? No worries! Bourbon chicken keeps beautifully for the next day.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the chicken (sauce included) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken stock to bring the sauce back to life.

With these meal prep tips, you can stretch one cooking session into multiple delicious meals!

Can I Make Bourbon Chicken Without Alcohol?

Absolutely! If you want to enjoy bourbon chicken without using alcohol, you can easily substitute the bourbon with apple juice for a sweet and fruity note. Another excellent option is a mix of water and vanilla extract, which maintains the dish’s rich and tangy flavor profile.

These swaps are perfect for families, health-conscious cooks, or those who prefer alcohol-free cooking while keeping the recipe deliciously satisfying.

What’s the Best Bourbon for Bourbon Chicken?

When choosing bourbon for your bourbon chicken recipe, go for a mid-range brand like Jim Beam or Maker’s Mark. These options provide great flavor depth without overpowering the dish.

Avoid overly expensive bourbons since their complexity might get lost during cooking, and steer clear of very cheap options that could add harshness. A balanced bourbon will enhance the savory-sweet sauce beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality meal.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes, frozen chicken works well in this recipe but requires proper preparation to ensure the best results. Fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before cooking, then pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess water.

This step ensures the chicken sears properly, giving you that golden, crispy finish. Using frozen chicken without thawing can lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable texture in your dish.