If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug with a hint of sweetness and a gentle kick, you have to try this Bourbon Chicken Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a luscious sauce that masterfully combines savory soy sauce, the deep warmth of bourbon, and just the right touch of brown sugar sweetness. This dish delivers layers of flavor and an irresistible texture that will quickly make it a favorite for weeknight dinners or even special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Bourbon Chicken Recipe lies in its beautifully balanced and straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the cornstarch that creates that delightful crispy coating to the blend of liquids that form the rich and velvety sauce. Here’s what you’ll need to make this show-stopping dish:
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, tender and easily absorbs the sauce flavors.
- 5 tablespoons corn starch (divided): Used to coat the chicken for a slightly crispy exterior and to thicken the sauce later.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup vegetable, corn, or canola oil: For an even, golden sear on the chicken pieces.
- 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced): Provides a fragrant and aromatic base for the sauce.
- 1 cup water: Helps balance the sauce consistency.
- 2/3 cup soy sauce: Brings a savory umami richness to the dish.
- 1/2 cup apple juice: Adds a natural sweetness and subtle fruitiness.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Builds a hearty, savory backbone for the sauce.
- 1/3 cup ketchup: Gives a slightly tangy, tomato-based sweetness.
- 1/4 cup bourbon: The star ingredient that adds unmatched depth and a gentle smoky warmth.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Provides the rich, caramelized sweetness that bourbon chicken is known for.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a mellow but essential depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little spicy kick.
How to Make Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Coat the Chicken
Begin by trimming any excess fat off the chicken breasts and cutting them into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and soaks up the sauce perfectly. Next, combine 4 tablespoons of cornstarch with salt and pepper in a medium bowl, then toss your chicken pieces in this mixture until each piece is fully coated. This coating helps create a slightly crispy texture when cooked, sealing in the juicy goodness of your chicken.
Step 2: Sauté Half of the Chicken
Heat half of your chosen oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers with heat, add half of the chicken pieces. For the best texture, allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip each piece and cook for another 3 minutes. This method locks in juiciness while developing a delicious crust. Remove this batch and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Remaining Chicken
Add the remaining oil to your hot skillet and repeat the same process with the second half of the chicken pieces. Cooking in batches like this avoids overcrowding, which keeps your chicken nicely browned instead of stewing in its juices. Remove the cooked chicken when done and set it aside with the first batch.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 20 to 30 seconds until fragrant—this step releases the aromatic oils that will flavor the sauce. Next, pour in the water, soy sauce, apple juice, chicken broth, ketchup, bourbon, vinegar, brown sugar, ground ginger, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. This medley of ingredients combines to create that signature sweet and savory glaze.
Step 5: Simmer Chicken in Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then add all the cooked chicken pieces back into your skillet. Let the chicken simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce by about half. This intensified sauce coats each piece beautifully, blending all the flavors into every bite.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into your skillet and let it cook for another minute or two until the sauce thickens to your liking. This step is optional but highly recommended for that perfect glossy finish.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy
The final step is delightfully simple: serve your Bourbon Chicken Recipe hot over freshly steamed rice. The rice acts like a sponge, soaking up every bit of that delectable sauce, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your Bourbon Chicken Recipe from delicious to dazzling. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the top for a burst of color and crunch. A few sprigs of fresh cilantro also brighten the dish with a fresh herbaceous note. These little touches add texture and visual appeal, making your meal even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Traditional steamed white rice is the classic companion to bourbon chicken, as it perfectly absorbs the rich sauce. However, consider serving it with jasmine rice for a fragrant twist or even coconut rice to add a subtle tropical sweetness. For more vegetable variety, steamed broccoli, snap peas, or stir-fried carrots make excellent, vibrant sides that add freshness and crunch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and casual presentation, serve the bourbon chicken in lettuce cups or over a bed of crispy noodles for that satisfying combination of textures. You can also pile the chicken on top of quinoa or cauliflower rice to create a low-carb alternative. For a party-ready option, skewer the chicken pieces and drizzle the sauce on top as a finger food twist that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bourbon Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will continue to soak in the sauce flavors, making for even tastier leftovers. Store the chicken and sauce together to ensure each bite remains perfectly coated and juicy.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save it for a later date. Place cooled bourbon chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember to label your container with the date so you can enjoy your homemade goodness without worry.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your bourbon chicken again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickened too much. This method keeps the chicken tender and the sauce luscious, just like when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use dark meat chicken instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully in this Bourbon Chicken Recipe as they tend to stay moist and absorb the sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking times slightly since thighs can cook a bit faster than breasts.
Is it necessary to use bourbon in the sauce?
While the bourbon adds a distinctive warmth and depth, if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with an extra half cup of apple juice or chicken broth mixed with a teaspoon of whiskey-flavored extract to mimic the flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! The original recipe includes optional crushed red pepper flakes, but you can increase the amount or add hot sauce according to your heat preference. Balancing spicy with the sweet sauce is key for an excellent bourbon chicken experience.
How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?
Cooking the chicken in batches and coating it with cornstarch helps create a slight crust, preventing sogginess. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and sear the chicken well on each side before simmering in the sauce.
What type of rice pairs best with Bourbon Chicken Recipe?
Steamed white jasmine rice is classic and fragrant, but you can also use basmati or even brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. The rice should be fluffy to balance the richness of the sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. With its incredible layers of flavor, easy-to-follow steps, and comforting charm, it’s a dish that will quickly become a go-to in your cooking routine. So grab those simple ingredients, warm up your skillet, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal bursting with love and amazing taste.
Print
Bourbon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Bourbon Chicken recipe features tender pieces of chicken breast cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce made with bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices. Perfectly pan-seared and simmered to develop a luscious glaze, this dish is an easy and crowd-pleasing meal served best over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 5 tablespoons corn starch (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable, corn, or canola oil
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 1 cup water
- 2/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Trim any fat off the chicken breasts and cut into 1-inch pieces. In a medium bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of corn starch with salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly.
- Cook first half of chicken: Heat half of the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add half of the chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed on one side for 3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove cooked chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Cook second half of chicken: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Add the remaining uncooked chicken pieces and repeat the cooking process: 3 minutes per side until browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Create sauce base: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 20-30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in water, soy sauce, apple juice, chicken broth, ketchup, bourbon, vinegar, and add brown sugar, ground ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Reduce heat to low and add all the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens to about half its original volume, glazing the chicken nicely.
- Thicken sauce (optional): Mix the remaining 1 tablespoon corn starch with 1-2 tablespoons water to form a slurry. Stir this into the skillet sauce to further thicken if desired. Cook for another minute until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Dish the bourbon chicken hot over steamed rice and enjoy a savory-sweet meal with a hint of spice and a touch of bourbon flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to cook chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure even browning.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level or omit for mild flavor.
- For best results, use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced.
- Serve with steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice for a complete meal.
- You can substitute apple juice with pineapple juice for a different fruity twist.
- The bourbon flavor cooks off slightly but leaves a rich aroma; use a good-quality bourbon for best taste.
