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best bourbon chicken recipe
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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
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!