Why You’ll Love This Easy Bourbon Chicken
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights.
- Sweet and Savory Sauce: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and tangy flavors is irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—this recipe is pantry-friendly!
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love this dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
Tools You’ll Need
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Easy Bourbon Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This Easy Bourbon Chicken is a mouthwatering dish with sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delicious addition to your dinner rotation, this recipe features tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup apple juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, combine apple juice, soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Whisk together and bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch slurry (2 teaspoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the bourbon chicken over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use Chicken Thighs: They’re more tender and flavorful, but breasts work just as well.
- Don’t Skip the Apple Juice: It adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Add Heat to Taste: Adjust the red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce gets even better after sitting, so this dish is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with white or brown rice for a classic pairing.
- Add steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans for a complete meal.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a touch of crunch.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
Q2: What can I use instead of apple juice?
A: Pineapple juice or orange juice works well as a substitute.
Q3: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just double the ingredients, but make sure to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Conclusion: A Deliciously Easy Favorite!
This Easy Bourbon Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. With its tender chicken and sticky sauce, it’s a hit every time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite!
Did you try this recipe? Share your feedback and photos on social media—we’d love to see your creations!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 12g
Enjoy this flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish tonight!
