Easy Bourbon Chicken

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Description

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful, sticky, sweet-savory dish inspired by Chinese-American takeout classics. Despite the name, this recipe doesn’t always require bourbon—though it adds depth if included. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a glossy sauce made from soy, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of bourbon (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version). It’s quick to make and perfect for serving over rice for a satisfying dinner.

🥘 Ingredients for Easy Bourbon Chicken

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • ¼ cup bourbon (or apple juice as a substitute)

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar

  • 2 tbsp ketchup

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

  • Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

  2. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and mostly cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

  3. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. Stir in soy sauce, bourbon (or apple juice), chicken broth, brown sugar, ketchup, and vinegar. Bring to a simmer.

  5. Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in sauce.

  6. Mix cornstarch slurry and slowly add it to the sauce. Simmer until sauce thickens and coats the chicken (about 3–4 minutes).

  7. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

  8. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

📝 Notes

  • Bourbon adds a subtle smoky-sweet depth, but apple juice works well for a family-friendly version.

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts.

  • Sauce can be doubled if you like extra for rice.

  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

💡 Tips

  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.

  • Add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a stir-fry twist.

  • Use honey instead of brown sugar for a lighter sweetness.

  • If you prefer spicier, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add sriracha.

🍽 Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

  • Serving size: About 1 cup chicken + sauce

📊 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 380

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 25g

  • Sugars: 18g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Saturated Fat: 3g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 680mg

🌟 Benefits

  • High in protein – supports muscle growth and satiety.

  • Flavorful yet simple – satisfies takeout cravings at home.

  • Customizable – can be made alcohol-free, spicier, or veggie-packed.

  • Quick & easy – ready in about 30 minutes.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make bourbon chicken without alcohol?
A: Yes, simply replace bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a delicious non-alcoholic version.

Q: What goes best with bourbon chicken?
A: Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables make perfect sides.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but thaw fully before cooking for best texture.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add extra red pepper flakes, chili paste, or sriracha to the sauce.

Q: Can I meal-prep bourbon chicken?
A: Absolutely. Store in airtight containers with rice and veggies for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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