Bourbon Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Takeout Favorite You Can Make at Home!

Craving the sweet, savory, and sticky goodness of takeout Bourbon Chicken? Skip the delivery and whip up this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen! With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes, you can enjoy this irresistible meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Let’s dive into this easy Bourbon Chicken recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Chicken Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!
• Flavor-Packed: A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice.
• Better Than Takeout: Fresh, homemade, and free of mystery ingredients.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or with your favorite veggies.

Ingredients for Bourbon Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup bourbon (or substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.

2. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. This flavorful sauce is the star of the dish!

3. Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the browned chicken and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

4. Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.

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5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot over steamed rice or with your favorite veggies.

Tips for the Best Bourbon Chicken

• Use Chicken Thighs: They stay juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
• Adjust the Spice: Skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish, or add more for extra heat.
• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Non-Alcoholic Option: Replace bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g

FAQs About Bourbon Chicken

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

2. What can I substitute for bourbon?

Apple juice, chicken broth, or even pineapple juice work well as non-alcoholic alternatives.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. Can I freeze Bourbon Chicken?

Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Bourbon Chicken recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the sweet and savory flavors of takeout but wants a healthier, homemade alternative. With its sticky sauce, tender chicken, and quick prep time, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

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Don’t forget to pin this recipe and share it with your friends. Happy cooking! 🍗✨

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