Easy Bourbon Chicken

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone craving a restaurant-quality dish at home. With its sticky sweet bourbon sauce, this meal is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it brings a taste of classic American cuisine right to your table. Plus, you can make a kid-friendly version without bourbon, making this dish versatile for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The sauce combines sweet and savory elements that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles, making it suitable for any side you prefer.
• Kid-Friendly Options: Easily adjust the recipe to create a bourbon-free version that kids will enjoy.
• Large Servings: This recipe makes enough for eight servings, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Bourbon Chicken, you’ll need to gather some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools on hand can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or pot: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to simmer perfectly.
• Medium bowl: Helps in coating the chicken with cornstarch and seasoning effortlessly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure you use the right amounts of each ingredient for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

This easy restaurant-quality Bourbon Chicken recipe is absolutely addicting, thanks to a sticky sweet Bourbon sauce with lots of flavor! Read the notes for a kid-friendly version without bourbon.

Ingredients:
– 3 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, chopped into 1-inch pieces)
– 4 tablespoons cornstarch (plus ½ – 1 tablespoon extra, see notes)
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or use sesame oil for more flavor)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup chicken broth (use low-sodium if you prefer less salt)
– ⅔ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if you prefer less salt)
– ⅓ cup apple juice
– ⅓ cup ketchup
– ¼ cup bourbon (see notes for a kid-friendly version)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or less, to taste)
– 1 cup brown sugar (dark or light)
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or use more for a spicy sauce!)

How to Make Easy Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Coat the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons cornstarch with salt and pepper.
2. Add the diced chicken pieces and toss well to coat thoroughly.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces without stirring. Cook on one side for about three minutes.
3. Flip each piece of chicken and cook an additional three minutes until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in all remaining sauce ingredients from chicken broth through red pepper flakes.
3. Stir well and bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Lower heat to simmer while adding the browned chicken back into the skillet.
2. Allow everything to cook together for about ten minutes until the sauce reduces by half.

Step 5: Optional Thickening Step

1. If desired, combine extra cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl or cup, then stir into sauce.
2. Let it simmer for another two minutes before removing from heat.

This delicious Easy Bourbon Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

Serving Easy Bourbon Chicken can elevate your dinner experience. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various serving options that complement its sweet and savory flavors.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the bourbon chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the rich sauce, making each bite delightful.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. This adds a fresh crunch and extra nutrients to your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the bourbon chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun and interactive meal, perfect for gatherings.

With Noodles

• Toss the bourbon chicken with noodles for a hearty meal. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a satisfying dish.

On a Salad

• Top a mixed greens salad with bourbon chicken for a refreshing twist. Drizzle with additional dressing for extra flavor.

As Meal Prep

• Portion out servings of bourbon chicken into containers with rice or vegetables for easy reheating throughout the week. This makes meal planning simple and convenient.

How to Perfect Easy Bourbon Chicken

To achieve restaurant-quality Easy Bourbon Chicken, pay attention to these key tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and good quality bourbon will significantly improve the taste of your dish.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming instead of searing.

• Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the sweetness of the sauce by adjusting the amount of brown sugar according to your preference.

• Thicken Sauce Effectively: For a thicker sauce, use cornstarch mixed with cold water. Add it towards the end of cooking for best results.

• Taste as You Cook: Always taste the sauce before serving; you can modify flavors by adding more vinegar or soy sauce if needed.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked dish to rest for a few minutes enhances flavors as they meld together before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Easy Bourbon Chicken pairs well with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the sweetness of the chicken.

2. Fried Rice: A classic side that brings additional textures and flavors, especially when mixed with vegetables and scrambled eggs.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up any leftover sauce beautifully.

4. Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative that’s packed with protein; mix in veggies and a light dressing to enhance it further.

5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame oil adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the warm chicken.

6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a cool counterpart to the hot bourbon chicken.

7. Egg Noodles: Soft egg noodles tossed in butter make for an excellent base that pairs well with the bold flavors of this dish.

8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and enhances your dining experience during warmer months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Bourbon Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the chicken in cornstarch can result in a less flavorful and less tender dish. Always coat your chicken pieces thoroughly for the best texture.
• Crowding the skillet: Overcrowding your cooking pan can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if needed to allow for proper browning and flavor development.
• Not simmering long enough: Failing to let the sauce simmer can lead to a watery consistency. Allow the sauce to reduce properly for that sticky, sweet finish.
• Ignoring personal taste: Not adjusting flavors can lead to a bland dish. Tweak ingredients like soy sauce or apple cider vinegar according to your preferences.
• Forgetting about thickening options: Skipping the optional thickening step may leave your sauce too thin. Use cornstarch mixed with water to achieve a perfect glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Easy Bourbon Chicken is a simple recipe that features tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and sticky bourbon sauce, often served over rice.

Can I make Easy Bourbon Chicken without bourbon?

Yes! For a kid-friendly version, omit the bourbon and replace it with extra apple juice or broth for flavor.

How do I store leftover Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What can I serve with Easy Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or even noodles for a delightful meal.

How do I thicken the sauce for Easy Bourbon Chicken?

To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce while simmering until desired thickness is reached.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adjusting the spice levels or adding your favorite vegetables!