If there is one dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a little spicy kick, it has to be this Bourbon Chicken Recipe. Bursting with rich flavors from the caramelized brown sugar and the bold notes of bourbon, this dish transforms everyday chicken into a mouthwatering feast that’s quick to prepare yet impressive enough for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or looking to wow your guests, this Bourbon Chicken Recipe delivers a perfect harmony of tender, crispy chicken coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with pieces of raw pale pink chicken placed unevenly inside it. A woman's hand holds a silver spoon above the bowl, pouring fine white powder over the raw chicken. The background surface is a white marbled texture. The lighting is soft and natural, creating a simple cooking scene photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Bourbon Chicken Recipe is surprisingly simple, relying on a handful of common ingredients that come together to create a dish with big flavor. Each component plays a key role from the rich bourbon to the delicate balance of spices, making this recipe both approachable and irresistible.

1 pound chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
1 Tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection without sticking.
1/3 cup bourbon: The star ingredient adding depth, sweetness, and a subtle smoky flavor to the sauce.
1/3 cup soy sauce: Brings a salty umami base that enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness to the sauce, creating a perfect glaze consistency.
1/3 cup brown sugar: Provides the caramel sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
1/2 tsp ground ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle zing to brighten the sauce.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Deepens the savory flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: A gentle hint of heat to keep things exciting.
4 garlic cloves minced: For aromatic pungency that infuses the sauce as it cooks.
2 tbsp cornstarch: Helps coat the chicken for a crispy texture and thickens the sauce.
3 green onions chopped thinly: Fresh garnish that adds a bright, crisp finish.

How to Make Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing the soy sauce, chicken broth, bourbon, brown sugar, ground ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. This combination forms the magical sauce that will coat the chicken with layers of flavor. Set it aside for now to let all the ingredients mingle.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Cut your chicken into half-inch thick strips, then chop into 1-2 inch pieces. Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch in a bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial because it helps the chicken develop a crispy, golden-brown exterior when cooked and creates a thicker sauce later.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in two batches to avoid overcrowding. Let the chicken cook without moving it for about 3 minutes on one side. This undisturbed cooking allows a beautiful crispy crust to form. Flip the pieces and cook for another few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Build Flavor

Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the same pan. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and stir constantly for less than a minute until fragrant but not browned. This quick step infuses the oil and pan with garlic’s irresistible aroma, which forms the flavor base for the sauce.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook for about a minute to meld the flavors. Return the chicken to the pan, reduce the heat to a simmer, and stir gently to coat each piece. Cook until the sauce reduces by about half and thickens to a sticky glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh pop of color and a slight bite. Serve this Bourbon Chicken Recipe hot, ideally over steamed rice to soak up the luscious sauce. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Serve Bourbon Chicken Recipe

A white oval plate with blue floral and fruit patterns holds a pile of dark brown chicken pieces covered in thick glossy sauce. The chicken looks tender and shiny with some small white and green onion slices scattered on top. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, partly covered by a soft pink cloth on the left side. To the right, there is a golden spoon and fork shining under the light. The overall look is warm and inviting, showing the rich texture of the sauced chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh green onions add a crisp, fresh contrast to the sweet and savory glaze and provide a visual appeal that makes the dish even more inviting. For a little extra flair, sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note.

Side Dishes

This Bourbon Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple steamed white or jasmine rice to absorb the sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light Asian-style slaw for added texture and freshness to balance the sweetness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Bourbon Chicken in lettuce wraps garnished with chopped peanuts or cashews for crunch. Another great idea is to pile it on fried rice or noodles, turning it into a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bourbon Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will continue to intensify in flavor, making your next meal just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

You can freeze Bourbon Chicken for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Bourbon Chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power, making sure to stir halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Bourbon Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and add richer flavor, but chicken breasts work great too if you prefer leaner meat. Both will absorb the sauce beautifully.

Is it necessary to use bourbon in this recipe?

Bourbon is what gives this dish its signature flavor, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with apple juice or extra chicken broth with a splash of vanilla extract for some sweetness.

How spicy is this Bourbon Chicken Recipe?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a mild heat that complements the sweetness and savoriness without overwhelming the palate. You can adjust the amount to make it milder or spicier according to your taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What sides go well with Bourbon Chicken?

Steamed rice is the classic choice, but you can also serve it with sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Bourbon Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—sweet, satisfying, and simple enough to whip up any night of the week. It’s a personal favorite that never fails to impress with its blend of comforting flavors and effortless appeal. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a treasured recipe in your collection just as it is in mine.