This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, sticky-sweet dishes. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken with a rich bourbon sauce that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly Option: You can easily modify the recipe to make it suitable for kids by omitting the bourbon without sacrificing flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Easy Bourbon Chicken:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pot: Essential for browning the chicken evenly and combining all ingredients in one place.
• Medium bowl: Useful for mixing cornstarch with seasonings before coating the chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, chopped into 1-inch pieces)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (plus ½ – 1 tablespoon extra, see notes)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or use sesame oil for more flavor)

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth (use low-sodium if you prefer less salt)
• ⅔ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if you prefer less salt)
• ⅓ cup apple juice
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup bourbon (see notes for a kid-friendly version)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or less, to taste)
• 1 cup brown sugar (dark or light)
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or use more for a spicy sauce!)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Easy Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons cornstarch with ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper.
2. Add the diced chicken to the bowl and toss well to completely coat each piece.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces without stirring them for about 3 minutes.
3. Turn each piece of chicken over and cook for an additional 3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked.
4. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set aside. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid crowding.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in all remaining sauce ingredients—from chicken broth through red pepper flakes—and stir well.
3. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and return the chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce reduces by half.

Step 5: Optional Thickening Step

1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine ½ – 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl.
2. Stir this mixture into the sauce and let it simmer for another 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Now your Easy Bourbon Chicken is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot over steamed rice for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

Serving Easy Bourbon Chicken can elevate your dinner experience and impress your guests. This flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich taste.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati rice works beautifully, absorbing the delicious bourbon sauce.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed broccoli or snap peas add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.

In a Wrap

• Serve the chicken in a tortilla wrap with lettuce and slaw for a delicious handheld meal.

Topped with Green Onions

• Chopped green onions sprinkle on top add a burst of freshness and flavor.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide into containers with rice and veggies for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Easy Bourbon Chicken

Perfecting your Easy Bourbon Chicken involves a few simple techniques to enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out just right:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality soy sauce will significantly improve the overall taste.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking chicken in batches prevents steaming, ensuring it gets that perfect golden-brown color.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use less ketchup in the sauce.

• Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce helps infuse flavors deeply into each piece.

• Consider Cornstarch Carefully: Use cornstarch sparingly when thickening; too much can make the sauce gummy instead of silky.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Complementing Easy Bourbon Chicken with side dishes enhances your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice that adds flavor and texture, making it a filling option.
2. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad balances the richness of the bourbon chicken.
3. Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up extra sauce, adding a delightful crunch.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort food vibes that pair well with savory chicken.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the dish.
6. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies stir-fried quickly keep things healthy while adding more nutrients.
7. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious alternative that’s hearty yet light, providing an excellent base for the chicken.
8. Asian Noodles: Tossed in sesame oil or soy sauce, these noodles make a tasty side that complements Asian flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Bourbon Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final dish. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too much chicken at once, it won’t brown properly. Cook in batches for better results.
• Ignoring the Sauce Reduction: Not allowing the sauce to simmer enough will result in a watery dish. Let it reduce to enhance the flavors.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Coating: This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. Don’t skip coating your chicken well before cooking.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you are watching your salt intake. Regular soy sauce can make the dish overly salty.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra vinegar or sugar can balance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for tracking freshness.

Reheating Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a sweet bourbon sauce. It mimics restaurant-quality meals right at home.

Can I make a kid-friendly version of Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Yes! Omit the bourbon and replace it with additional apple juice or chicken broth for sweetness without alcohol.

How do I serve Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Serve this dish over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also pair it with vegetables for added nutrition.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu as substitutes for those looking for variety or different protein options.

What can I customize in my Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or incorporating vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli into the stir-fry.

Final Thoughts

Easy Bourbon Chicken is not only delicious but also highly versatile. Its sticky sweet sauce makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or make it kid-friendly by omitting bourbon. Try this recipe today for a delightful dinner experience!

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Easy Bourbon Chicken

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, sticky bourbon sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe takes just 35 minutes to prepare and cook. The delightful blend of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that complements the chicken beautifully. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy a meal that will impress your family and friends alike. This dish is also versatile; you can easily modify it for kids by omitting the bourbon while maintaining its delicious flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (chopped)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ⅔ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup apple juice
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup bourbon (or substitute for apple juice)
• 1 cup brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a bowl; coat chicken pieces.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; brown the chicken in batches.
3. Sauté garlic in the same skillet; add remaining sauce ingredients and bring to a boil.
4. Return chicken to the skillet; simmer until sauce reduces by half.
5. For thicker sauce, combine cornstarch with water; add to the skillet and simmer briefly.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For a kid-friendly version, omit bourbon and increase apple juice. Serve with veggies or over rice for a complete meal.