Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe for Home Cooks

Bourbon chicken is a beloved dish that combines the savory and sweet flavors of tender chicken with a rich bourbon-infused sauce. This dish, often found in food courts and Chinese-American restaurants, offers a delightful balance of flavors that can be easily recreated at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the perfect bourbon chicken, including variations, side dish suggestions, and storage tips.

Introduction to Bourbon Chicken

Bourbon chicken is named after Bourbon Street in New Orleans, reflecting the dish’s fusion of Southern and Asian cuisines. The main components include chicken, bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar, which together create a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. It’s typically served over rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Flavor Profile and Serving Suggestions

The flavor profile of bourbon chicken is marked by its balance of sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of smokiness from the bourbon. The sauce is rich and glossy, coating the chicken beautifully. To enhance the dining experience, serve bourbon chicken over fluffy white rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Essential Equipment for Making Bourbon Chicken

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Classic Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Ingredients for Classic Bourbon Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Method for Classic Bourbon Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Mix the cornstarch and water together, then add to the skillet to thicken the sauce.
8. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is thick and glossy.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes on Classic Bourbon Chicken

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste preferences.

Variations of Bourbon Chicken

Spicy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

• Follow the classic recipe, increasing the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon.
• Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha or hot sauce for extra heat.

Honey Bourbon Chicken Recipe

• Substitute half of the brown sugar with 1/4 cup of honey for a richer sweetness.
• Reduce the soy sauce to 1/3 cup to balance the additional sweetness from the honey.

Slow Cooker Bourbon Chicken Recipe

• Place all ingredients, except cornstarch and water, in a slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.

Grilled Bourbon Chicken Recipe

• Marinate chicken in the classic sauce mixture for at least 2 hours.
• Grill chicken over medium heat until fully cooked, basting with reserved marinade.
• Serve with extra sauce on the side.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure chicken is cooked until just done to keep it tender.
• Thin Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, add more cornstarch slurry to thicken.
• Too Sweet or Salty: Adjust the balance by adding more vinegar for acidity or more sugar for sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Bourbon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

For longer storage, freeze bourbon chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating following the above methods