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
- 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