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Easy Bourbon Chicken

Easy Bourbon Chicken


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  • Author: Sarah Merles
  • 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

Scale
  • 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

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. 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

  1. 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).
  2. Whisk together and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

  1. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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