By This Bourbon Chicken balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Bourbon Chicken captures the essence of drinks while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Bourbon Chicken becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
4 large chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces and patted dry
2 tbsp sesame oil
½ tsp pepper
½ tsp onion powder
¼ cup apple juice (or bourbon, if available)
¼ cup ketchup
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup water
⅔ cup brown sugar
½ tsp ground ginger
3 tsp minced garlic
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp cornstarch
¼ cup green onions, sliced
PREPARATION STEPS
In a large bowl, toss the chopped chicken breasts with 1 tbsp of cornstarch until well coated.
2
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat
Add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink
Drain any excess juices from the skillet
Return the skillet to the stove and continue cooking the chicken over medium heat until browned.
3
In a medium bowl, combine pepper, onion powder, apple juice (or bourbon), ketchup, soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ground ginger, minced garlic, water, and 1 tsp cornstarch
Whisk together until well combined.
Once the chicken is browned, add the sauce mixture to the skillet. Using a spoon, deglaze the bottom of the pan to incorporate any browned bits. Bring the sauce to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Serve the Bourbon Chicken over white rice, garnished with sliced green onions, and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Prep Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 15 min
Total Time: 25 min
Servings: 4
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 10 min | Servings: 2 | Calories: ~150 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Breakfast pastries; Light snacks; Fruit salad
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
