Description
This effortless bourbon chicken recipe delivers a sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavor with minimal ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect takeout-style meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic powder, ground ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat evenly, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables.
Notes
- No Bourbon? Substitute apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Spicier Version Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
- Vegetable Boost Stir in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrients.
- Protein Swap Use chicken breast or even tofu for a lighter or vegetarian alternative.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course,dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
Keywords: bourbon chicken, easy chicken recipe, stovetop chicken, quick dinner, takeout-style chicken