Hi there, food lover! 👋
Ready to dive into a dish that’s full of sweet, savory, and slightly boozy magic? Bourbon chicken is a beloved classic that beautifully combines the richness of tender chicken with the boldness of bourbon whiskey, mellowed by brown sugar, garlic, and soy sauce. It’s a dish that traces its roots back to Louisiana, often tied to Bourbon Street in New Orleans, where Cajun and Asian flavors cross paths in the most delightful way.
This recipe is all about comfort and tradition. Imagine juicy, golden-brown chicken bites coated in a glossy sauce that’s sticky, tangy, and sweet with just the right hint of bourbon. 🍗🥃 Served over a fluffy bed of white rice or even fried rice, it makes for a hearty, soul-satisfying meal.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply for yourself on a cozy night in, bourbon chicken will surely win hearts. The aromas will fill your kitchen with warmth, and each bite will remind you of the beauty of simple, traditional cooking. So let’s put on that apron, grab your skillet, and start making this southern-inspired classic together!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey 🥃
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup 🍅
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground ginger (or fresh grated)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes 🌶️ (optional, for a kick)
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the bourbon, stirring to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to cook off the sharp alcohol flavor.
- Add soy sauce, ketchup, chicken broth, brown sugar, vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is well combined.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken beautifully.
- Once done, garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot over fluffy white rice or noodles, letting that glossy sauce soak right in.
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420
🍽️ Servings: 4
#BourbonChicken #SouthernCooking #ComfortFood #EasyDinner #ChickenRecipes #HomemadeDelight
Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️
