Easy Bourbon Chicken
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both delicious and quick to prepare, look no further than Easy Bourbon Chicken! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce, creating a tantalizing meal that’s sure to please the entire family. Did you know that bourbon chicken is named after Bourbon Street in New Orleans? It’s true! While it may be called “bourbon,” this recipe is alcohol-free, focusing on the wonderful flavors that come from the marinade. The best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes!
This dish is similar to the ever-popular teriyaki chicken, except it has a unique twist that makes it stand out! Easy Bourbon Chicken not only makes for a scrumptious dinner but also allows you to save on takeout costs. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be inviting friends over for dinner more often. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe – your taste buds are in for a treat!
What is Easy Bourbon Chicken?
Now, let’s chat about the fun name – Easy Bourbon Chicken! Ever wonder why it’s called that? Imagine walking down Bourbon Street, where the air is filled with vibrant energy and mouthwatering food smells. While the name might hint at spirits, I promise there’s no alcohol in this dish. Instead, it reflects the sweet sauce that’s as comforting as a warm hug after a long day. It’s like that classic saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” perfectly encapsulating the magic of this dish. So why not take a chance and whip up this lip-smacking recipe? You won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Bourbon Chicken
One of the main highlights of Easy Bourbon Chicken is its balance of flavors. The sweetness of the sauce mingles delightfully with the savory notes of the chicken, creating an indulgent experience in every bite. Not only is it a delicious meal, but making it at home can save you some cash compared to dining out. Plus, you can customize it to suit your family’s tastes!
And let’s not forget the vibrant veggies that can complement this dish beautifully, such as bell peppers or snap peas. If you enjoy stir-fries or sweet-and-sour chicken, you’ll find this recipe to be right up your alley. Don’t wait – give Easy Bourbon Chicken a try, and your dinner table will be the talk of the night!
How to Make Easy Bourbon Chicken
Quick Overview
One of the best aspects of Easy Bourbon Chicken is how simple and satisfying it is! In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s packed with flavor. With its tender chicken coated in a glossy sauce, the meal promises to delight everyone around the table. Are you ready to make magic happen in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Easy Bourbon Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have the time.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat half of the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and add it to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Thicken the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and pour in the reserved marinade. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the thickened sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve over rice, pasta, or on its own!
What to Serve Easy Bourbon Chicken With
This delectable Easy Bourbon Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider steaming some jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the sauce’s flavors. You could also serve it with sautéed veggies for a colorful plate, or a fresh salad to add some crunch. For a drink, try pairing it with iced tea or a light lemonade for a refreshing touch!
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Bourbon Chicken
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re not fond of dark meat, boneless chicken breasts work just as well in this recipe! Additionally, if you’re looking for a healthier twist, you could substitute the brown sugar with honey or a sugar substitute.
- Timing: Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Keep a close eye on it and cook until just done.
- Common Mistakes: Don’t skip the marinade. The longer you let the chicken soak in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which might be hard to believe since it’s so delicious), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it comes to reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick meal – just be careful not to overdo it!
With Easy Bourbon Chicken, you’ve got a winning recipe that brings sweet, savory, and satisfying together in no time. So roll up those sleeves and start cooking; your taste buds will thank you!
Easy Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat half of the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and add it to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and pour in the reserved marinade. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the thickened sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve over rice, pasta, or on its own!
