Easy Bourbon Chicken
Introduction
Are you looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home? Look no further than this bourbon chicken recipe. This classic dish is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken bites coated in a rich bourbon-infused sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Chicken
1.5 pounds of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
1/4 cup of bourbon
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ketchup
3 cloves minced garlic
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Thickening Agent
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons cold water
Prep Time
This recipe requires a bit of preparation, but is still quick and simple. The prep time for cutting the chicken and gathering the ingredients is around 10 minutes. With everything laid out and ready, you’ll save time while cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for bourbon chicken is approximately 20 minutes. Including prep, the total time to serve this dish is about 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick meals. The recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Enjoy cooking and serving this delectable meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, water, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Mix well. Set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil to the skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly.
Step 5: Simmer
Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer the chicken in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken is evenly coated, and allow the sauce to thicken.
Step 6: Adjust Sauce Consistency (Optional)
If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time to thin it out. If it is not thick enough, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl, then add this slurry to the skillet while stirring. Let it cook an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the bourbon chicken over rice, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
Note about Bourbon
If you prefer an alcohol-free version, you can omit the bourbon and replace it with equal amounts of apple juice or chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.
Tips for Cooking the Chicken
For the best results, cut the chicken evenly into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Do not overcrowd the skillet to avoid steaming the chicken instead of browning it.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, fried rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Custom Spice Levels
If you enjoy more spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
Optional Garnishes
Garnish with sesame seeds or finely chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or green onions, for added flavor and presentation.
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Cook Techniques
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and quicker preparation. This step helps the chicken cook through more evenly when sautéed.
Sauté the Chicken
Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Allow the chicken to brown slightly on all sides for added flavor. Ensure it is fully cooked before proceeding to the next step.
Make the Sauce
Whisk together the sauce ingredients in a separate bowl to create a smooth, flavorful mixture. Combining the ingredients ahead of time helps them incorporate evenly when added to the skillet.
Simmer the Sauce
Once the sauce is added to the skillet with the chicken, reduce the heat and let it simmer. This step allows the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken, creating a rich and sticky glaze.
Serve Fresh
Serve the bourbon chicken immediately after cooking. Pair it with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQ
What can I substitute for bourbon?
If you do not want to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice, chicken broth, or water for a non-alcoholic version. It will still taste delicious but may miss the distinct bourbon flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They are more tender and flavorful, and some people prefer them in recipes like this.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To make the sauce thicker, let it simmer for longer or add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the bourbon chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove when ready to serve.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. However, if you want to add a bit of heat, you can sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a small amount of hot sauce to the sauce.
Can I freeze bourbon chicken?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat on the stove for best results.
Conclusion
The Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its sweet, savory, and slightly tangy sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple, satisfying, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this recipe is worth trying and is guaranteed to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetables
Pair this similar sweet and savory dish with steamed rice and a side of roasted veggies for a wholesome meal.
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Combine this with noodles or stir-fried rice for an Asian-inspired dinner that’s quick and delicious.
Szechuan Beef Stir-Fry
This spicy stir-fry would complement the bourbon chicken for a bold and exciting dinner spread.
Sweet Chili Chicken Wings
Enjoy these wings alongside the bourbon chicken for a mix of sweet and smoky flavors.
Lemon Ginger Salmon
This refreshing citrusy salmon dish pairs wonderfully as a light protein alternative to bourbon chicken.
Coconut Rice
Add balance to the bourbon chicken’s rich flavors by serving it over aromatic coconut rice for a tropical twist.
Asian Cucumber Salad
This crisp, tangy salad makes for a refreshing side dish that complements the richness of bourbon chicken.
