Looking for an easy, delicious recipe that will please both kids and adults? Look no further than this easy bourbon chicken recipe! This dish offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and sticky goodness, all in one pan. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this bourbon chicken is bound to become a family favorite. Follow along to learn how to make it, and don’t forget to read through the entire article for some pro tips and variations to make the dish uniquely yours!
What is Bourbon Chicken?
Bourbon chicken is a popular dish often found in food courts, particularly in Chinese-American restaurants. Despite the name, bourbon chicken isn’t inherently a Chinese dish; rather, it's a fusion of Southern American and Asian flavors. The "bourbon" in bourbon chicken comes from the addition of bourbon whiskey, which gives the sauce a rich, deep flavor. The chicken is typically sautéed or pan-fried and then coated in a sticky sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and bourbon. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients List for Bourbon Chicken
For this easy bourbon chicken recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds of chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ¼ cup bourbon whiskey (optional but highly recommended for authentic flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
- ⅓ cup soy sauce (regular or low-sodium, depending on preference)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (for tangy sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for balance and a slight tang)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated, or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- ¼ cup chicken broth (for a slightly richer sauce)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat, optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to thicken the sauce)
- Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this bourbon chicken recipe is how adaptable it is! If you’re missing an ingredient or want to switch things up, here are some simple substitutions and variations you can try:
- No bourbon? No problem! If you prefer to leave out the alcohol, you can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth. You’ll still get a delicious, tangy sauce without the bourbon flavor.
- Chicken thighs or breasts? While chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and rich flavor, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts. Just be mindful that chicken breasts tend to cook faster and may dry out if overcooked.
- Soy sauce options: For a healthier option, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also substitute soy sauce with tamari if you're looking for a gluten-free alternative.
- Sweeteners: Instead of brown sugar, try using honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness. These alternatives add a unique flavor dimension to the dish.
- Want more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This easy bourbon chicken recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking this tasty dish:
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help them brown better when cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan – you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, cooking them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the sauce while stirring. This will help thicken the sauce to a glossy, sticky consistency.
- Combine everything: Add the browned chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken is fully coated. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce and finish cooking.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top of the chicken for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though bourbon chicken is easy to make, a few mistakes can prevent you from getting that perfect balance of flavors. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cooking too much chicken at once can prevent it from getting that golden-brown sear, resulting in soggy chicken.
- Skipping the alcohol entirely: If you’re hesitant to use bourbon because of its alcohol content, remember that the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind just the flavor. However, if you prefer not to use it, apple juice or chicken broth is a suitable substitute.
- Not using fresh ginger and garlic: Fresh garlic and ginger give the sauce a more vibrant and authentic flavor. While ground ginger and garlic powder can be used in a pinch, fresh ingredients provide a better result.
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken thighs are forgiving, but chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Be sure to monitor the cooking time carefully if you use chicken breasts instead.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is just as important as taste, especially when serving bourbon chicken to guests or family. Here are a few ideas to help make your dish look as good as it tastes:
- Serve with rice: Bourbon chicken pairs perfectly with white or jasmine rice. The rice helps soak up the rich, flavorful sauce, making each bite even more delicious.
- Go for noodles: Want to switch things up? Serve the chicken over lo mein noodles or stir-fried vegetables for a Chinese takeout-inspired meal.
- Add some greens: A side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy adds color and nutrition to the plate, balancing out the richness of the bourbon chicken.
- Top with garnishes: Don’t forget the finishing touches! A sprinkle of fresh green onions and sesame seeds adds a pop of color and texture to the dish.
How to Serve Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on your mood or the occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Family-style meal: Serve the bourbon chicken straight from the skillet and let everyone help themselves. This approach works especially well for casual family dinners.
- Bento box-style: For an Instagram-worthy meal, serve the chicken in a bento box with compartments for rice, vegetables, and maybe a slice of orange for garnish. This presentation is visually appealing and portion-controlled.
- Lettuce wraps: For a lighter option, serve the bourbon chicken wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This is a great low-carb way to enjoy the dish.
Bourbon Chicken Recipe Tips
- Marinate the chicken for more flavor: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in some soy sauce, garlic, and bourbon for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse even more flavor into the meat.
- Make it ahead: Bourbon chicken tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce thickens and the flavors deepen over time.
- Double the sauce: If you’re a fan of extra sauce, simply double the sauce ingredients. This way, you’ll have plenty to spoon over rice or noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make bourbon chicken without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
2. What cut of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe, but chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer leaner meat.
3. How long will leftover bourbon chicken last?
Leftover bourbon chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze bourbon chicken?
Yes! Bourbon chicken freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
5. What side dishes go well with bourbon chicken?
Rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables are all great sides to serve with bourbon chicken. You could also try a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
This easy bourbon chicken recipe is a delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. By following the step-by-step instructions and using the tips provided, you'll have a perfectly cooked, mouthwatering dish ready to serve in no time. Don’t forget to experiment with variations to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this crowd-pleasing meal!
PrintEasy Bourbon Chicken Recipe
This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich and flavorful bourbon sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. With a sweet, savory glaze and a hint of bourbon, this quick and delicious dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner served over rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and glazed with the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve over rice.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with apple juice.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
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