Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe: Sweet & Savory Delight

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family or guests, then an easy bourbon chicken recipe is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a savory-sweet bourbon sauce that’s full of flavor.

The dish can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasions when you want to treat your loved ones to something tasty. As someone who loves experimenting with flavors in the kitchen, I’ve found that bourbon chicken is an incredibly versatile recipe.

You can adjust the flavors based on your preferences, whether you like it sweeter, spicier, or with a hint of citrus. If you’re also looking for other comfort food ideas, you can try making a Sloppy Joe Grilled Cheese recipe.

Tips for Making Bourbon Chicken

1. Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: While both cuts work well, chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster, making them a great choice for busy days. However, chicken thighs are slightly juicier and tend to stay tender even if you cook them a little longer. Choose whichever you prefer based on the texture and flavor you like.
2. Marinate the Chicken: While not a must, marinating the chicken in the sauce for at least 15 minutes can help infuse the meat with more flavor. I recommend combining the sauce ingredients with the chicken and letting it sit in the fridge for a bit before cooking.
3. Perfect the Bourbon Sauce: The key to a great bourbon chicken recipe lies in the sauce. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes the dish irresistible. If you like your bourbon chicken sauce a bit thicker, let it simmer for a few extra minutes after adding the bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
4. Adjust the Sweetness and Heat: While the recipe typically uses brown sugar for sweetness, you can experiment with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a slightly different flavor profile. For those who love a bit of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce can be added to the sauce to kick up the heat.
5. Sear the Chicken Well: For maximum flavor and texture, it’s important to sear the chicken in a hot pan before simmering it with the sauce. Searing creates a caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish and enhances its flavor.
6. Add Vegetables: If you’re looking to add more veggies to your bourbon chicken dish, consider tossing in some diced bell peppers, onions, or snap peas. Not only do they add a burst of color to your plate, but they also enhance the flavor and texture of the meal.
7. Serve Over Rice: Bourbon chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white rice, but feel free to experiment with other grains like quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist. The rice helps absorb the flavorful sauce and makes the dish more filling.

How to Serve Bourbon Chicken

Bourbon chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. I usually like to serve it with fluffy white rice or a simple vegetable stir-fry. The sweetness of the bourbon sauce complements the savory elements of grilled or roasted vegetables perfectly.

If you’re craving something a bit heartier, mashed potatoes or even egg noodles could be a delicious choice. For a lighter side, a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the chicken and provide some crunch.

An easy boiled potatoes recipe is also a great pairing for bourbon chicken, adding a simple yet satisfying element to your meal.

Storage and Leftover Tips

1. Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover bourbon chicken, you’re in luck because this dish stores well for a couple of days. Simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it taste even better on the second day!
2. Freezing Bourbon Chicken: You can also freeze bourbon chicken for up to 3 months. If you’re planning to freeze it, make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the microwave or stovetop. If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating: To keep the chicken moist when reheating, I recommend adding a little bit of water or broth to the pan. This helps create steam and prevents the chicken from drying out. You can also add a bit of extra bourbon sauce to refresh the flavors if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

1. Quick and Simple: As the name suggests, this easy bourbon chicken recipe is fast and simple to prepare. With minimal ingredients and only a few easy steps, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for a busy weeknight when you want a delicious homemade meal without the hassle.
2. Bold Flavor: The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic creates a savory-sweet glaze that elevates the chicken’s natural flavor. It’s bold, aromatic, and has just the right amount of richness.
3. Customizable: One of the things I love about bourbon chicken is how adaptable it is. Whether you prefer your chicken sweeter, spicier, or with more garlic, it’s easy to tweak the recipe to your liking. You can even make it as a stir-fry by adding a variety of vegetables or serve it with different types of grains.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This bourbon chicken is not only delicious but also great for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store it in individual containers, and you have a quick lunch or dinner ready to go.

Ben Carraoli

Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

f you're looking for a quick and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family or guests, then an easy bourbon chicken recipe is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a savory-sweet bourbon sauce that’s full of flavor.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 19 minutes mins

Total Time 29 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. They absorb the bourbon sauce well, giving the dish a tender texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is used for searing the chicken. Olive oil adds flavor and prevents sticking to the pan.
• 1/4 cup bourbon: The star ingredient! It imparts a rich smoky flavor to the sauce. It also helps balance out the sweetness from the brown sugar.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: This adds a salty depth to the sauce. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brown sugar creates a nice sweetness that balances the savory flavors in the dish. It also helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to the sauce cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder gives a warm savory flavor to the sauce, complementing the bourbon’s richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle earthy spiciness to the sauce. It complements the sweetness of the sugar and the heat of the bourbon.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional: Used to thicken the sauce if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Method

 

1. Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook faster and evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, allowing for a better sear. Season the pieces lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor. Once prepared, set the chicken aside while you work on the sauce.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let the chicken cook without stirring for about 4-5 minutes to form a nice golden-brown crust. Once the chicken is seared on one side, flip the pieces and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir the mixture together, making sure the sugar dissolves. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. If you’d like the sauce to be thicker, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water in a small bowl to make a slurry, then add it to the sauce. Stir well, and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.
4. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, return the seared chicken to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve your bourbon chicken over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or any side you prefer. The sauce will beautifully coat the chicken, making each bite tender and flavorful. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade bourbon chicken!