Best Bourbon Chicken Recipe: A Sweet & Savory Delight

If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that will impress everyone around the table, this best bourbon chicken recipe is what you need! I recently made it for dinner, and I can’t get over how delicious and easy it was. 

The chicken turns out so tender, coated in a rich, sweet, and tangy bourbon sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. If you love savory dishes with a bit of a sweet twist, then this one is a must-try! I’ve also made a few tweaks to make it even better, and I’ll be sharing those tips with you in this article.

If you’re craving comfort food made easy, try our creamy and cozy Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie recipe.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

When I first made this bourbon chicken, it turned out delicious, but I’ve learned a few tricks to make it even better over time. Here are some tips from my experience to take your dish to the next level:

• Marinate Longer: I always try to marinate the chicken for at least an hour, sometimes even overnight. This gives the chicken more time to soak up all the delicious flavors from the bourbon, soy sauce, and other ingredients.
• Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger really make a difference in flavor. The fragrance is stronger and more aromatic compared to the dried versions.
• Adjust the Heat: If you want the dish spicier, feel free to add extra crushed red pepper flakes. I recommend tasting the sauce before adding the chicken to decide how spicy you want it to be.
• Serve with Fresh Herbs: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds on top not only make the dish look stunning but also add an extra crunch and burst of flavor.
• Balance the Sweetness: The brown sugar and apple juice add sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a less sweet bourbon chicken, you can reduce the sugar or replace the apple juice with a little more soy sauce.

Best Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations you can try to make this bourbon chicken recipe even more customizable:

• Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so it’s great for anyone with dietary restrictions. Just make sure the soy sauce and other condiments you use are also dairy-free.
• Sugar-Free Option: You can easily make this recipe sugar-free by swapping the brown sugar for a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Add-ins for Extra Flavor: Consider adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or even pineapples to the dish for a sweet and savory contrast. The caramelized edges of these veggies will really elevate the flavor of the chicken.
• Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Want an extra kick? Add a dash of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for an extra spicy bourbon chicken experience.

If you’re craving a rich, nutty treat, don’t miss our indulgent Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars recipe.

How to Serve Best Bourbon Chicken Recipe?

Serving your bourbon chicken in the right way can make all the difference in how it’s received at the table. Here are a few serving tips to make your dish look and taste even better:

• Over Rice or Noodles: This recipe pairs perfectly with a bed of rice or noodles. The rice will soak up all the delicious sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
• Presentation Tips: For a more elegant presentation, serve the chicken on a platter with rice or noodles on the side. Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh green onions on top of the chicken for that extra pop of color.
• Garnish: Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds! The fresh crunch and nutty flavor really complement the rich sauce. If you like a little more heat, you can also add sliced red chilies on top.

How to Store the Best Bourbon Chicken?

If you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly to keep your bourbon chicken fresh:

• Refrigerating: Store any leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet on low heat to keep the sauce from burning.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bourbon chicken for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove any excess air. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Chicken Recipe?

Here are a few reasons why this bourbon chicken recipe is perfect for anyone to make, from beginner home cooks to seasoned chefs:

• Easy and Quick: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have this flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable Flavors: Whether you want to add more heat, reduce the sweetness, or throw in some veggies, this recipe offers plenty of room for tweaking.
• Perfect for Busy Weeknights: The quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious without hours of prep.
• Family-Friendly: The balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors makes this a dish everyone in the family can enjoy.
• Versatile: You can serve it with different sides like rice, noodles, or steamed veggies, making it versatile enough for different preferences.

From comfort food to crowd-pleasers, browse our chicken recipes to find your next go-to dish.

A Perfect Dinner for Any Occasion

This easy bourbon chicken recipe is ideal not only for busy weeknights but also for special occasions. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, tangy vinegar, and rich bourbon creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s sure to impress.

Ben Carraoli

Best Bourbon Chicken Recipe

This best bourbon chicken recipe is a deliciously easy dish that everyone will love. It’s full of rich, savory flavors with just the right amount of sweetness, and it's customizable to fit your taste. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a dish to serve at a family dinner, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1½ pounds chicken thighs boneless and skinless – Cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe as they remain tender and juicy, even when cooked in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the chicken adding flavor and helping it brown evenly.
• ¼ cup bourbon optional – You can substitute with chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Bourbon adds a deep, smoky richness to the sauce.
• ½ cup soy sauce – Provides the savory umami flavor that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• ¼ cup apple juice – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps to balance the savory flavors.
• ½ cup brown sugar – The sugar helps to thicken the sauce and adds richness and sweetness to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup – Contributes a tangy sweetness enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Brings a slight acidity to cut through the richness of the sauce.
• 1 garlic clove minced – Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a bold, aromatic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger – Adds warmth and spice to the dish complementing the bourbon and soy sauce.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adjust to taste for a mild or spicy kick.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – To thicken the sauce giving it a smooth and glossy finish.
• 1 tablespoon water – Used to mix with cornstarch to create a slurry that thickens the sauce.
• Green onions sliced – For garnish, adding a fresh, vibrant crunch.
• Sesame seeds optional – For garnish, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Method

 

1. Start by mixing together the bourbon, soy sauce, apple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl. This marinade is the heart of the dish, providing a complex combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Once the marinade is mixed, add the chicken pieces, making sure they are coated evenly. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to a few hours for deeper flavor.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade (but keep the marinade for later) and add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and nearly cooked through. This browning process will lock in the flavors and give the chicken a crispy edge, which pairs wonderfully with the sauce.
3. While the chicken is cooking, take the reserved marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, letting the flavors meld together. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Once the marinade is simmering, add the cornstarch slurry and stir well. Let the sauce cook for 1-2 minutes, until it thickens and becomes glossy. The cornstarch will give the sauce a smooth texture, making it perfect for coating the chicken.
4. Once the chicken is browned and cooked through, pour the thickened sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the chicken and sauce to simmer together for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce while ensuring it’s thoroughly coated with the rich, thick sauce.
5. Once the chicken is fully cooked and coated with the delicious sauce, it’s time to serve! You can serve Bourbon Chicken over a bed of rice or noodles, making it a complete meal. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor and texture. This dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends!