I have to tell you, the first time I made bourbon chicken, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. It reminded me of those irresistible takeout meals from the mall food court, but with this recipe, I could make it fresh at home anytime. My family couldn’t get enough, and now it’s one of those dishes that gets requested almost weekly! You get the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a hint of heat. If you’re looking for an easy dinner that feels like a treat, this one’s for you.

Credit: simplyrecipes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious bourbon chicken. Each ingredient has its own reason for being part of the recipe, so don’t skip any!

2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces – Fresh chicken works best for tenderness. If you prefer a darker, juicier meat, try boneless thighs.
1-2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps brown the chicken while keeping it from sticking.
1 garlic clove, minced – Fresh garlic adds that punch of flavor you don’t want to miss out on.
¼ teaspoon ground ginger – Adds warmth and depth to the sauce. Freshly grated ginger can elevate the flavor even more.
¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Gives just a touch of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
¼ cup apple juice – Adds sweetness and balances out the tangy and savory flavors.
⅓ cup light brown sugar – Sweetens the dish while helping the sauce achieve a glossy texture.
2 tablespoons ketchup – Provides a tangy base for the sauce and thickens it as it cooks.
1 tablespoon cider vinegar – Contributes a tangy brightness to the overall flavor.
½ cup water – Helps thin the sauce initially before it reduces.
⅓ cup soy sauce – Adds saltiness and umami for that rich flavor typical of bourbon chicken.

Note: This recipe serves four, but feel free to double it if feeding a larger group.

Variations

If you’d like to tweak the recipe to fit your preferences, try these variations:

Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a keto-friendly option.
Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no adjustments needed here!
Extra Flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon for a boozy spin or a squeeze of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Vegan Substitute: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of water.

For another flavorful chicken dish, check out this chicken mole recipe, which combines rich, complex flavors with a hint of spice.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – To brown the chicken and cook the sauce thoroughly.
Cutting board and sharp knife – To cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Garlic press or mincer – To prepare the garlic with minimal effort.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient proportions.
Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the sauce and prevent sticking.

How to Make Bourbon Chicken?

Making bourbon chicken at home is easier than you think, and it doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Follow these simple steps below.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure they brown properly. This step is key for achieving that golden exterior.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and spread them out in a single layer. Cook them until they’re lightly browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the apple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, cider vinegar, water, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce. Turn up the heat slightly to bring it to a boil, then lower it and simmer for 15-20 minutes. During this time, the sauce will reduce and thicken.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, your bourbon chicken is ready to serve. Spoon it over freshly cooked rice for the ultimate pairing.

Credit: simplyrecipes

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are a few tricks I’ve learned while perfecting this dish to make it truly restaurant-quality every time:

Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too runny, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in an equal amount of water, then stir it into the sauce in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Boost the Aromatics: Freshly grated ginger works wonders if you want a more pronounced zesty flavor.
Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, cook the chicken and combine with the premade sauce.
Use a Wok: If you have one, use a wok for even heat distribution and a little extra char on the chicken.

How to Serve Bourbon Chicken?

Bourbon chicken pairs wonderfully with white rice, brown rice, or even a bed of fluffy quinoa. To make the dish pop visually, garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and color contrast. If you’re hosting, serve it in a wide serving dish with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal. For a different take on chicken dishes, you might enjoy this chicken adobo recipe, which offers a tangy and savory flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of nutritional facts per serving (based on one-quarter of the recipe):

Calories: 370
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe wins hearts for so many reasons. Here’s why it will become one of your go-to meals too!

Quick and Simple: This dish requires minimal prep and less than 40 minutes to make.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors, spice level, or even the protein to meet your preferences.
Restaurant-Quality: You get that sweet-and-savory takeout flavor without leaving home.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep or freezing for busy weeknights.

Bourbon chicken is one of those recipes that feels like an indulgence but is deceptively easy and practical to make. The bold flavors combined with its simplicity make it a household favorite. Try it tonight and watch it disappear from the dinner table in no time! Enjoy!

You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell