Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful and savory dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, sticky glaze made from a blend of bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices. This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, with a hint of smoky depth from the bourbon.
What Is Bourbon Chicken?
Bourbon Chicken is a dish typically made with bite-sized pieces of chicken cooked in a rich, sticky sauce. The sauce is a blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and bourbon, often complemented by apple juice or vinegar for added depth. The result is a glossy, caramelized coating that makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Bourbon Chicken
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: If time permits, marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of bourbon for 30 minutes.
- Control the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
- Layer the Heat: Add spices like cayenne, paprika, or chili paste for a spicier version.
- Use a Heavy Pan: A cast-iron skillet or wok distributes heat evenly for the perfect sear.
- Alcohol-Free Option: Substitute bourbon with apple cider, pineapple juice, or chicken broth.
Variations of Bourbon Chicken
- Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add sriracha or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Honey Bourbon Chicken: Replace brown sugar with honey for a floral sweetness.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Grilled Bourbon Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the sauce and grill it for a smoky flavor.
How to Serve Bourbon Chicken
The versatility of Bourbon Chicken means you can pair it with various sides for a complete meal:
- Over Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- With Noodles: Toss with stir-fried noodles for a fusion twist.
- Vegetable Sides: Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy add a refreshing crunch.
- In Wraps: Use as a filling for lettuce wraps or flatbreads for a quick lunch option.
How to Store and Reheat Bourbon Chicken
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dish without bourbon?
Absolutely! Apple juice, pineapple juice, or chicken broth are great substitutes.
Is Bourbon Chicken spicy?
The classic version isn’t spicy, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.
What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?
Chicken thighs are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts work for a leaner option.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Does the alcohol cook out?
Most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving only the flavor. However, if you’re concerned, use a non-alcoholic substitute.
Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful and savory dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, sticky glaze made from a blend of bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup bourbon
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, chicken broth, bourbon, brown sugar, ground ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Set aside.
- Cut chicken into small pieces and toss with cornstarch until coated.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches, 3 minutes per side, until crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Add a bit more oil to the skillet and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the sauce mixture, deglazing the pan as you stir. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and simmer until the sauce reduces by half.
- Serve over rice, garnished with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 382Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 139mgSodium: 1419mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 1gSugar: 15gProtein: 45g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Bourbon Chicken is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish never fails to impress. By following the tips, variations, and serving suggestions in this guide, you’ll have a go-to recipe that rivals any restaurant version.
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