Irresistible Bourbon Chicken: A Flavorful Recipe Delight

There’s something magical about the aroma of bourbon chicken wafting through the kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy pieces of chicken swimming in a sweet and savory sauce, each bite bursting with flavor. The scent alone is enough to make anyone forget their troubles and head straight for the dinner table.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made bourbon chicken for my family. It was a chilly evening, and the warmth of the kitchen felt inviting. As we gathered around the table, I could feel the anticipation building. Everyone knew something delicious was coming, and they were ready to dig in.

Cooking bourbon chicken has become a family favorite that never fails to impress my guests with its delightful taste.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor and aroma.

• Brown Sugar: This adds that sweet depth that makes bourbon chicken irresistible.

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of your dish.

• Bourbon: A good quality bourbon enhances the flavor; choose one you enjoy sipping.

• Green Onions: These provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color as a garnish.

• Cornstarch: This helps thicken your sauce for that perfect consistency.

• Vegetable Oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding extra flavor.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they add a nice kick if you like some heat!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make bourbon chicken

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor absorption.

Sauté Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells like heaven in your kitchen!

Create the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, and cornstarch until smooth. The mixture should look glossy and inviting.

Combine Sauce with Chicken: Pour the sauce over your sautéed chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat; let it simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened and sticky.

Add Final Touches: Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving. The contrast of colors will make your dish pop visually!

With these steps complete, you’ll have a plate of mouthwatering bourbon chicken that’s begging to be devoured!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken, then sear it for a crispy exterior. While it cooks, prepare the sauce to ensure everything melds perfectly together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap bourbon with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its juicy texture.

I remember making this bourbon chicken for my family during a chilly winter night. The aroma wafted through the house, and everyone rushed to the table, eager to dig in!

FAQ

What is bourbon chicken?

Bourbon chicken is a sweet and savory dish made with marinated chicken cooked in bourbon sauce.

Can I make bourbon chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare bourbon chicken ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.

What can I serve with bourbon chicken?

Bourbon chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Bourbon Chicken

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Bourbon chicken combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, sweet-savory sauce that captivates the senses. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. With its enticing aroma and vibrant presentation, bourbon chicken will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking until fragrant.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, and cornstarch until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Substitute bourbon with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version. Add vegetables like bell peppers to increase nutrition and color.