Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that tastes just like your favorite takeout—without the cost or wait? This Easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is your go-to. Sweet, sticky, slightly smoky, and utterly delicious, it’s a family-friendly meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
If you’ve loved our saucy favorites like Firecracker Chicken or million dollar chicken casserole, then this bourbon chicken is about to become your next obsession.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – 1.5 lbs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender during cooking, making them ideal for stir-fry style dishes. - Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons
Lightly coats the chicken for a velvety texture and helps the sauce cling to each piece. - Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Used for searing the chicken and achieving a light, golden crust. - Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. - Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Adds a subtle warmth to balance the sweet sauce.
For the Bourbon Sauce:
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Provides depth and a savory aromatic base for the sauce. - Fresh ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated (optional)
Adds brightness and a slight zing that pairs well with the bourbon. - Soy sauce (low sodium) – 1/4 cup
Offers that essential umami backbone and saltiness. - Bourbon – 1/4 cup
Classic ingredient that lends warmth and complexity to the sauce. Alcohol cooks off during simmering. - Brown sugar – 1/3 cup
Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce. - Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon
Cuts through the richness and adds a touch of tang. - Ketchup – 2 tablespoons
Provides body and balances the sweet and savory components. - Water – 1/3 cup
Helps the sauce simmer and blend without becoming too thick. - Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
Thickens the sauce to a glossy, sticky finish.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
How to Make Easy Bourbon Chicken: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. This step gives the chicken a tender coating and helps the sauce stick better during cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken in a single layer. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if needed and sauté the garlic (and ginger, if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and water. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce
Once the sauce begins to bubble, whisk in the cornstarch-water slurry. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
5. Add the Chicken Back
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to absorb flavor and fully heat through.
6. Serve or Store
Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. For meal prep, divide into containers with your choice of sides. Let cool before sealing and storing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Tips and Variations
- No Bourbon? Substitute with apple juice or chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.
- Add Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the final simmer for a full one-pan meal.
- Use Chicken Breast: If preferred, chicken breast can be used, though thighs offer better texture and flavor for this dish.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store the chicken and rice separately for better texture when reheating.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bourbon Chicken strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and rich flavors. The bourbon adds depth without overpowering, and the sauce clings beautifully to the tender chicken. It’s fast, freezer-friendly, and pairs well with a variety of sides — making it ideal for meal prep or last-minute dinners. The glossy, sticky glaze creates a restaurant-quality finish that feels indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Every bite is packed with flavor, and it only gets better after a day in the fridge. Whether served over rice, noodles, or with veggies, it’s a satisfying dish that always hits the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, but chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Chicken breast may dry out slightly.
Q: Is bourbon chicken actually made with bourbon?
A: Traditional versions include bourbon whiskey, but many home recipes skip it or use a substitute. The flavor is still delicious!
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! This dish stores well and even tastes better the next day as the flavors develop.
Q: What type of bourbon is best to use?
A: Use any basic bourbon that you enjoy drinking. Avoid flavored varieties.
My Final Thoughts
Easy Bourbon Chicken brings together everything you want in a weeknight dinner—speed, flavor, and comfort. Its sticky, sweet-savory glaze and tender bites make it a favorite that you’ll want to cook again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meals ahead of time, this dish is sure to satisfy.
For more delicious, easy recipes just like this one, visit Mealova Recipes and explore your new favorite meals.
Easy Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add soy sauce, bourbon (or apple juice), brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Add to the sauce and stir until thickened (2–3 minutes).
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Simmer together for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve hot over white rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can double the sauce if you prefer extra for rice or veggies.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
