Easy Bourbon Chicken

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. With its sticky sweet bourbon sauce and a blend of robust flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner or a casual get-together. Plus, this dish is simple enough for weeknight meals yet impressive enough to serve guests. You can also find notes for creating a kid-friendly version without bourbon!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates an addictively sweet and savory sauce.
• Versatile Cooking: Serve over rice, noodles, or even with veggies to customize each meal according to your preferences.
• Kid-Friendly Options: Easily adapt the recipe by omitting the bourbon for a version that the whole family will enjoy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings as it serves up to 8 people, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this delightful dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or pot: A large skillet allows even cooking and reduces the chances of overcrowding your chicken pieces.
• Medium bowl: Useful for mixing cornstarch and seasoning with chicken ensures thorough coating.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your bourbon sauce.

Ingredients

This easy restaurant-quality Bourbon Chicken recipe is absolutely addicting, thanks to a sticky sweet Bourbon sauce with lots of flavor! Read the notes for a kid-friendly version without bourbon.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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!)

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 and toss well to coat all pieces evenly.

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.
3. Cook on one side without stirring for about 3 minutes until nicely browned.
4. Turn each piece and cook for an additional 3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked.
5. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add chicken broth through crushed red pepper flakes into the skillet.
3. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and return the browned chicken back into the sauce.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes until sauce is reduced by half.

Step 5: Optional Thickening

1. For thicker sauce, combine ½ – 1 tablespoon 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.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Bourbon Chicken hot over steamed rice!

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

Serving Easy Bourbon Chicken can elevate your dinner experience, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its sweet and savory flavors.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serving over fluffy steamed rice allows the sauce to soak in, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

With Broccoli or Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Fresh vegetables add a pop of color and crunch. Try stir-frying broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a quick and healthy side.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the bourbon chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds freshness and makes for an interactive meal.

Topped with Green Onions

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a burst of flavor and a nice visual contrast against the rich sauce.

With Sesame Seeds

• A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nuttiness and enhances the Asian-inspired flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Easy Bourbon Chicken

To achieve restaurant-quality Easy Bourbon Chicken, keep these tips in mind. Each suggestion will help you enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and high-quality soy sauce can significantly improve the overall taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking chicken in batches helps it brown evenly, ensuring a better texture.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking for the perfect consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust sweetness or saltiness by adding more sugar or soy sauce based on your preference.
• Marinate Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken in bourbon sauce for 30 minutes before cooking (if using bourbon).
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve your bourbon chicken hot off the stove to enjoy its sticky glaze at its finest.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Easy Bourbon Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice
   A flavorful fried rice complements the sweetness of bourbon chicken, making it an excellent pairing.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide richness that balances the dish’s sweetness perfectly.

3. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots offers freshness and texture, enhancing each bite.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with veggies is nutritious and adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with bourbon chicken.

5. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat are fun finger foods that make great appetizers alongside your main dish.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly in vinegar complements the sweetness while providing crunch.

7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the flavors of bourbon chicken beautifully.

8. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance to your plate while offering a touch of earthiness contrasting with sweet notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Bourbon Chicken, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much cornstarch: Adding excess cornstarch can make the chicken gummy. Stick to the recommended amount for a better texture.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; cook until each piece is nicely golden.
• Not simmering long enough: If you don’t let the sauce simmer, it won’t thicken or develop full flavor. Allow at least 10 minutes for the best results.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality soy sauce or bourbon can ruin your sauce. Choose good-quality ingredients to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will dry it out. Aim for tender pieces, ensuring they remain juicy.
• Forgetting about spice adjustments: The optional red pepper flakes can elevate your dish’s flavor profile. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky bourbon sauce with sweet and savory notes.

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

Yes! To make it kid-friendly, simply omit the bourbon and use apple juice or extra chicken broth instead.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What should I serve with Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Serve this dish over steamed rice or noodles, along with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I adjust the spiciness of Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Absolutely! You can add more or less crushed red pepper flakes based on your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting flavors and spice levels, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Bourbon Chicken

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Asian restaurant right to your kitchen. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken pieces enveloped in a sticky, sweet bourbon sauce that balances savory and sweet notes perfectly. In just 35 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, it’s easily adaptable; omit the bourbon for a kid-friendly version that the whole family will enjoy. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles, and watch as this delicious dish becomes a new favorite!

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Ingredients

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• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1-inch pieces)
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ⅔ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• ⅓ cup apple juice
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup bourbon (optional)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix cornstarch with salt and pepper. Toss in the chicken until evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown on one side for about 3 minutes, then flip and cook another 3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked.
3. Remove chicken from skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds before adding broth, soy sauce, apple juice, ketchup, bourbon (if using), vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
4. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and return chicken to the skillet. Simmer for about 10 minutes or until sauce reduces by half.
5. For thicker sauce, mix additional cornstarch with cold water and stir into sauce; simmer for another 2 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1 cup (225g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg