Easy Bourbon Chicken

This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant right to your kitchen. The sticky sweet bourbon sauce is not only flavorful but also incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and bourbon creates a rich, savory sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or with vegetables for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly Option: You can easily adjust the recipe to make it suitable for kids by omitting the bourbon.
• Makes Great Leftovers: Enjoy this dish again as it tastes even better the next day!

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Easy Bourbon Chicken, gather the necessary tools and equipment before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pot: Essential for cooking chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to simmer perfectly.
• Medium bowl: Great for mixing cornstarch with seasonings to coat the chicken thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your sauce has the right balance of flavors.

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: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons cornstarch with ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper.
2. Add the diced chicken and toss well to completely coat the chicken pieces.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook on one side without stirring for about 3 minutes.
3. Turn each piece of chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

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

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and return browned chicken back into the sauce.
2. Simmer for about 10 minutes until sauce is reduced by half.

Step 5: Optional Thickening Step

1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine additional cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl.
2. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce and let it cook for another two minutes before removing from heat.

Serve your Easy Bourbon Chicken hot over steamed rice or your choice of side! Enjoy this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken

Serving Easy Bourbon Chicken is a delightful experience, as this dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes. The sticky sweet sauce complements many flavors, making it a versatile choice for any dinner.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice absorbs the delicious sauce, creating a satisfying base for the chicken.

With Vegetables

• Add sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious boost that contrasts well with the sweetness of the sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the bourbon chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing twist. It makes for a fun and healthy appetizer or light meal option.

On Noodles

• Toss the chicken with cooked lo mein or rice noodles for an easy stir-fry meal that’s packed with flavor.

As a Sandwich

• Pile the bourbon chicken onto toasted buns with slaw for a tasty and hearty sandwich option.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving to add a nutty crunch and enhance the dish’s presentation.

How to Perfect Easy Bourbon Chicken

To make your Easy Bourbon Chicken even better, consider these simple tips. They will help elevate your dish and ensure perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.

• Control the Sauce Thickness: Adjusting cornstarch can change how thick your sauce gets. Start with less if you prefer a lighter glaze.

• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Cooking over medium-high heat helps achieve that perfect sear on your chicken pieces without overcooking them.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust sweetness or acidity to suit your preference by adding more sugar or vinegar.

• Let It Rest: Allow the bourbon chicken to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld perfectly before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Bourbon Chicken

Pairing sides with Easy Bourbon Chicken can elevate your meal further. Here are some great suggestions that complement this flavorful dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a rich contrast to the sweet sauce of bourbon chicken.

2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce adds freshness and crunch alongside the tender chicken.

3. Fried Rice: Cook up some fried rice with peas and carrots for an Asian-inspired side that complements the main dish perfectly.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the bourbon sauce wonderfully.

5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar brings a lightness to your plate, complementing the savory notes of bourbon chicken.

6. Quinoa Pilaf: For a healthy alternative, serve quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs, which adds texture and nutrition to your meal.

7. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies offer an excellent crunchy counterpart to tender bourbon chicken.

8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, making it an excellent companion to balance flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Bourbon Chicken, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish every time.

• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-salt the dish, especially with soy sauce. Opt for low-sodium versions to maintain flavor without excess salt.
• Skipping the cornstarch coating: This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. Make sure to coat the chicken well before cooking for the best results.
• Not browning the chicken properly: Browning enhances flavor. Ensure your skillet is hot enough and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam rather than brown the chicken.
• Ignoring simmering time: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps deepen flavors. Don’t rush this step; let it reduce for at least 10 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: To keep your chicken tender, avoid cooking it for too long in the skillet. It should be browned but not fully cooked before adding it back into the sauce.
• Neglecting customization options: Feel free to adjust spice levels or substitute ingredients based on preference. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Bourbon Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Easy Bourbon Chicken so delicious?

The combination of sweet and savory flavors from bourbon, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates an irresistible glaze that coats each bite.

Can I make a kid-friendly version of Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Yes! Simply substitute bourbon with additional apple juice or chicken broth and reduce any spice elements if preferred.

How do I serve Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Serve it over steamed rice or with vegetables. You can also pair it with noodles for a delightful meal!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu as a vegetarian alternative, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides pair well with Easy Bourbon Chicken?

Consider serving with stir-fried vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad to balance out the sweetness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Easy Bourbon Chicken is not only quick and simple but also packed with flavor that both kids and adults will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you stick with traditional ingredients or experiment with new flavors, this recipe is sure to impress!