Easy Bourbon Chicken

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe will delight your taste buds with its sticky sweet sauce and rich flavors! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish is incredibly versatile and can be served over rice or noodles. The best part? It’s simple enough for anyone to make at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that everyone will enjoy.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Adjust the ingredients easily for a version that even the littlest eaters will love.
• Versatile Serving Suggestions: Serve it over rice, noodles, or as a filling in wraps for a creative twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious dish, you will need some essential tools and equipment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or pot: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect glaze on the chicken.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing the cornstarch with the chicken, which helps create a crispy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to replicating the flavor balance in this recipe.
• Tongs or spatula: These tools help turn the chicken gently without breaking it apart.

Ingredients

To make this easy bourbon chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 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)

For the Sauce

• 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
• 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: Prepare 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 to coat each piece evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches if needed; cook without stirring for about 3 minutes until browned.
3. Flip each piece of chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes until golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in all remaining sauce ingredients from chicken broth through red pepper flakes.
3. Bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and return the browned chicken back to the skillet.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes until sauce reduces by half.

Step 5: Optional Thickening Step

1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine ½ – 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl.
2. Stir this mixture into the sauce; let simmer for another 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Now you’re ready to serve your Easy Bourbon Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles! Enjoy this delightful meal that captures restaurant-quality flavors right at home!

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

This easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. The sticky sauce pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the Bourbon Chicken atop a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a comforting meal that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Stir-fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for added nutrition and crunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves, allowing everyone to make their own wraps filled with flavorful chicken.

As Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create Bourbon Chicken tacos, topped with fresh salsa or avocado slices for added flavor and texture.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the chicken over cooked noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, to create a hearty meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

With a Side Salad

• Complement your meal with a fresh salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Easy Bourbon Chicken

To ensure your Easy Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality chicken broth enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve that perfect golden brown on the chicken without steaming it.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar and apple juice to match your taste preference.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the sauce to simmer on low heat enables flavors to meld beautifully while thickening it just right.
• Add Spice Gradually: If you like heat, start with less crushed red pepper flakes and adjust according to your preference for spice.
• Thicken Wisely: If you want a thicker sauce, use cornstarch mixed with cold water; add gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Bourbon Chicken can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice stir-fried with vegetables and egg adds an extra layer of taste.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a crunchy and nutritious side that complements the richness of the chicken.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the savory notes of Bourbon Chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the warm chicken dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon dressing offers a nutritious option that’s filling yet light.
6. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or chicken can be a delightful appetizer before diving into your main dish.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in sesame oil brings a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
8. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the meal’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Bourbon Chicken can be a breeze, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure you create a truly delicious dish.

• Incorrectly measuring ingredients: Always measure your ingredients precisely. Too much or too little of any ingredient can drastically change the flavor and texture.
• Not coating the chicken properly: Coating the chicken in cornstarch is essential for achieving that crispy outer layer. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated before cooking.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too much chicken at once leads to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for better results.
• Skipping simmering time: Allow the sauce to simmer properly after adding the chicken. This step lets flavors meld together and thickens the sauce.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your sauce as it cooks! You can adjust salt, sweetness, and spice levels to suit your preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Bourbon Chicken.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for variation in flavor while keeping it delicious.

How do I make this bourbon chicken kid-friendly?

To make it kid-friendly, simply replace bourbon with apple juice and reduce sugar slightly for a milder taste.

What should I serve with Easy Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. Try serving it over jasmine rice for extra fragrance!

How can I customize the spice level?

Feel free to adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your family’s spice tolerance. Start with less if you’re unsure!

What if I want to make it gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe provides a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that anyone can appreciate. It’s versatile enough to adapt according to personal tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Bourbon Chicken

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Savor the delightful flavors of our Easy Bourbon Chicken, a dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your dining table in just 35 minutes. This family-friendly recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky, sweet sauce made with apple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it can be served over rice or noodles for a wholesome meal. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a hit for both adults and kids alike. Add your favorite vegetables or enjoy it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist. Try this Easy Bourbon Chicken tonight and experience the mouthwatering flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ⅔ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup apple juice
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss in chicken until evenly coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches until golden brown (about 6 minutes total). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, apple juice, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until the sauce reduces by half.
5. For a thicker sauce, mix additional cornstarch with cold water and stir into the sauce; simmer for another 2 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg