If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and slightly indulgent dinner option, this Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for you. With tender pieces of chicken smothered in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet bourbon sauce, this dish brings a touch of Southern charm to your table. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and flavorful. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this irresistible dish!
Ingredients:
Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce Base:
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Additional Liquid: 1/2 cup water
Thickening Agent: 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
Directions:
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add Bourbon: In the same skillet, pour in 1/4 cup bourbon and cook for about 1-2 minutes to slightly reduce.
Mix the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger.
Simmer: Add 1/2 cup of water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and well-coated.
Serve: Serve the Bourbon Chicken over rice or with your favorite sides.
Serving Tips:
Serve Over Rice: Bourbon Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white or brown rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce.
Vegetable Sides: Complement the dish with steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for a fresh and visually appealing garnish.
Accompaniments: Consider serving with a side of egg rolls, dumplings, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing the container.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet if the sauce becomes too thick.
Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep. Portion out servings with rice and vegetables into meal prep containers for easy, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.
Related Recipes:
- Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
- Bourbon Caramel Cheesecake
- Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken
FAQs:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Chicken breasts are leaner and will work well, but they may be slightly less tender. Adjust the cooking time as needed, and be sure not to overcook to keep the chicken juicy.
What can I use as a substitute for bourbon in this recipe?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice, chicken broth, or a combination of both. For a non-alcoholic option, apple juice adds a touch of sweetness similar to bourbon.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat to your Bourbon Chicken, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Bourbon Chicken ahead of time. Prepare the dish as directed, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion:
This Easy Bourbon Chicken is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick dinner that feels special. The rich bourbon sauce, combined with tender chicken, makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re serving it over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it tonight and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
📖 Recipe:
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Easy Bourbon Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Enjoy a quick and delicious dinner with this Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe. Tender chicken thighs are coated in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet bourbon sauce, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful weeknight meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add bourbon and reduce slightly for 1-2 minutes. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground ginger. Add 1/2 cup water and bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water. Stir into the sauce and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return chicken to skillet and toss to coat with sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve over rice or with your favorite sides.
Notes
Substitute Options: For a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice or chicken broth in place of bourbon.
Spicy Variation: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
