Saucy Bourbon Chicken Recipe

This Saucy Bourbon Chicken is an irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that come together in just 30 minutes. The tender chicken pieces are bathed in a rich, glossy sauce with hints of bourbon and orange that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken: Boneless thighs or breasts work equally well. Thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier, while breasts are leaner. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and easier eating.
• Bourbon: The secret ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive flavor profile. It adds depth and a subtle smoky sweetness that makes this dish special.
• Orange Juice: Provides sweetness and acidity that balances the salty elements and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Brown Sugar: Creates that wonderful caramelization and sticky quality that makes bourbon chicken so addictive.
• Soy Sauce: Delivers that umami punch and balances the sweetness in the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of our sauce, adding richness without heaviness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the entire dish with aromatic flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Customize the heat level to your preference – a little for warmth or more for a proper kick.
• Cornstarch: The thickening agent that transforms the sauce from watery to wonderfully clingy.
• Cooking Oils: Regular cooking oil for frying, plus sesame oil for that distinctive nutty Asian flavor that elevates the whole dish.
• Green Onions: Adds fresh color, flavor and texture contrast to the finished dish.

Variations

Make It Your Own

• Vegetable Additions: Toss in some broccoli florets, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots during the last few minutes of cooking for added color, texture, and nutrition.
• Pineapple Twist: Add chunks of fresh or canned pineapple to introduce a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bourbon sauce.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or cashews before serving for an extra textural element.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add fresh sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to kick things up a notch.
• Alcohol-Free Version: Substitute apple juice for the bourbon to maintain the sweetness while making it family-friendly.

How to Make Saucy Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, orange juice, brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Cut your boneless chicken into 1-inch cubes and season lightly with salt and black pepper, distributing the seasoning evenly across all pieces.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add both cooking oil and sesame oil, allowing them to heat for about a minute. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook until the exterior browns nicely, about 10 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then pour the prepared sauce over the browned chicken. Stir to combine, making sure each piece of chicken is coated in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the sauce has reached a glossy, slightly thick consistency that coats the back of a spoon, remove from heat. Serve hot over freshly cooked rice and garnish generously with sliced green onions and a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

• Rice Options: White jasmine rice is traditional, but try it with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
• Side Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, stir-fried bok choy, or a simple Asian slaw for freshness and crunch.
• Complete the Meal: Add some pot stickers, spring rolls, or a quick miso soup on the side for a restaurant-quality Asian feast at home.
• Garnish Ideas: Beyond green onions, try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or even a few orange zest curls for visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This bourbon chicken actually tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and meld beautifully.

Freezing

Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just ensure the chicken is completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating

For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce. Microwave on 70% power, stirring halfway through, to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Saucy Bourbon Chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your dining table with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken pieces in that irresistible sweet-savory sauce creates a meal that feels special, even on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress without stressing you out in the kitchen. Give it a try tonight – I’m confident it will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

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