The Ultimate Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe: Better Than Takeout!

Looking for a tasty and simple weeknight dinner? Check out our easy Bourbon Chicken recipe! Ready in 40 minutes, this fast, easy version of the popular Chinese-American dish features juicy chicken in a sweet, savory sour bourbon glaze. Find the full recipe, as well as the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create a meal the whole family will enjoy. Well-suited for novices, and better than takeout!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

1. Fast & Easy: This one is a weekday savior!

2. Preposterously Good Flavor: Sweet with a touch of savory and then a little kick of bourbon.

3. Good for a Family: A dish that pleases everyone.

4. Flexible: Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies.

5. Budget-Friendly: Cheaper than ordering takeout.

The Ultimate Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe: Better Than Takeout!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup apple juice
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Directions

1. Wipe out the skillet and set the heat to medium. Stir in the soy sauce, apple juice, brown sugar, bourbon, rice vinegar, ketchup, garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the brown sugar has dissolved. Simmer the mixture, and let it bubble gently.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of corn starch to form a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into sauce that is barely simmering and cook, stirring with the whisk to avoid lumps, until the sauce is thickened.
3. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the thick sauce. Turn the heat to low, cover, and leave to simmer for 5-10 mins, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is glossy and thick.
4. Garnish with fresh green onions or sesame seeds, if you like. Add the Bourbon Chicken over a plate of steamed rice or noodles.