Description
Tender chicken thighs in a rich, homemade bourbon sauce. Serve over rice for a delicious and easy weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Bourbon Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, bourbon (if using), ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Continue to simmer the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet or saucepan with the bourbon sauce.
- Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serving: Serve the bourbon chicken hot over cooked white rice.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- Chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts can be used. Be careful not to overcook chicken breasts.
- Use a mid-range bourbon for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar for a less sweet sauce.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Prepare the bourbon sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make this bourbon chicken in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve this bourbon chicken with brown rice, quinoa, noodles, or even mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes