Description
This Bourbon Chicken is a sweet, sticky, and savory dish inspired by the popular mall food court favorite! Tender chicken is coated in a rich bourbon-infused glaze with a perfect balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Best served over rice for a delicious takeout-style meal at home!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bourbon (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or fried rice
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- If using, toss chicken pieces with 2 tbsp cornstarch for a crispy texture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, red pepper flakes, and water.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot over rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Enjoy your homemade takeout-style Bourbon Chicken!
Notes
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth.
- Extra Flavor: Marinate chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Make It Spicier: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.