Description
Sticky, savory, and slightly sweet, this homemade bourbon chicken is packed with flavor and simple to make in one pan. Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, chopped
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup apple juice or chicken broth
1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup bourbon (or substitute apple juice)
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken dry and toss in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated.
Cook the chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Build the sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add apple juice, soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer on medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened and chicken is well coated.
If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook an additional 1–2 minutes until glossy.
Serve
Serve warm over steamed white rice, brown rice, or sautéed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 390
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 35 g