Easy Bourbon Chicken

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen! With its sticky, sweet bourbon sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The balance of savory and sweet makes it irresistible, while the simple preparation ensures you can whip it up any night of the week. Plus, there’s a kid-friendly version available if you want to avoid alcohol!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-packed sauce: The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a deliciously sticky glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile dish: Serve over rice, noodles, or even veggies for a complete meal that suits various dietary preferences.
• Kid-friendly option: Easily adapt the recipe for little ones by omitting the bourbon and using apple juice instead.
• Impressive presentation: The vibrant colors and glossy sauce make this dish look as good as it tastes!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this easy bourbon chicken recipe, gather the essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pot: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to simmer properly.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing cornstarch with seasonings to coat the chicken thoroughly before cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent flavors each time.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing your chicken breasts safely and efficiently.

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: Coat 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 until all pieces are coated 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 in batches if necessary.
3. Cook without stirring for about 3 minutes until browned on one side.
4. Flip each piece of chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Add minced garlic to the skillet where you cooked the chicken.
2. Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, apple juice, ketchup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ground ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir well to combine everything and bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Simmer with Chicken

1. Reduce heat to low and return browned chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Let simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes until sauce reduces by half.

Step 5: Optional Thickening

1. If desired, combine remaining cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl or cup.
2. Stir mixture into sauce to thicken; let simmer an additional 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Serve your delicious easy bourbon chicken hot over steamed rice or your favorite side! Enjoy this delightful dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

Serving Easy Bourbon Chicken can be a delightful experience, whether for a casual family dinner or a special gathering. The sticky, sweet sauce pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or white rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious bourbon sauce.

With Broccoli

• Serve steamed or sautéed broccoli for a nutritious side that adds a vibrant green color to your plate.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Pair the chicken with lo mein or rice noodles for an Asian twist.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro to add freshness and brightness to the dish.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the bourbon chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option.

How to Perfect Easy Bourbon Chicken

To make your Easy Bourbon Chicken truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality chicken will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference; less sugar yields a less sweet sauce.
• Monitor cooking time: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken; it should remain juicy and tender.
• Experiment with spices: Adding more crushed red pepper flakes can give your dish an exciting kick.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Complementing your Easy Bourbon Chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some top picks:

1. Fried Rice – A savory mix of rice, vegetables, and egg that adds great texture.
2. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar; it balances the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy bread infused with garlic butter is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a hearty side with added nutrients.
5. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and coolness that contrasts beautifully with the warm chicken.
6. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf is not only healthy but also complements the flavors nicely while providing additional protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Bourbon Chicken, a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Avoiding these will help ensure your meal is delicious and satisfying.

• Not coating the chicken properly: If you skip the cornstarch coating, the chicken may not have that crispy texture. Make sure to toss the chicken thoroughly to coat every piece.
• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns well and cooks evenly.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: Some people skip thickening the sauce, which can leave it too watery. If you want a rich glaze, don’t forget to add cornstarch mixed with water at the end.
• Using high-sodium ingredients: Using regular soy sauce or broth can make the dish overly salty. Opt for low-sodium versions for better flavor control.
• Not adjusting spice levels: The crushed red pepper flakes are optional but can add great heat. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust as desired.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Easy Bourbon Chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.

Freezing Easy Bourbon Chicken

• You can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months.
• Store in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Easy Bourbon Chicken that might help you perfect your dish.

How do I make Easy Bourbon Chicken kid-friendly?

To make a kid-friendly version of Easy Bourbon Chicken, simply omit the bourbon and reduce any spicy ingredients like red pepper flakes.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken breasts, you can substitute with thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What should I serve with Easy Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just combine and cook when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Easy Bourbon Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adjusting spices or adding vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!