Bourbon Chicken

Bourbon Chicken is a popular dish often found at malls and casual Chinese-American restaurants. Known for its glossy, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce with tender bites of chicken, it has become a comfort food classic loved for its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

What is Bourbon Chicken?

Despite its name, Bourbon Chicken isn’t a dish that hails from Kentucky bourbon country; instead, it originated in the food courts of American malls, particularly in New Orleans on Bourbon Street. The name is thought to be inspired by Bourbon Street, not necessarily the alcohol itself, although bourbon is often used in the recipe to add depth to the sauce.

Bourbon Chicken typically consists of tender, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and—of course—a splash of bourbon. The flavors balance beautifully, making it a favorite for fans of sweet-savory dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make authentic Bourbon Chicken at home, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s a breakdown:

• Chicken thighs (or breasts): Dark meat is traditionally preferred for its tenderness and juiciness, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer.
• Bourbon: Adds a unique flavor and depth, but can be omitted if desired.
• Soy sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
• Brown sugar: This gives the dish its caramelized sweetness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a hint of tanginess that balances the sweetness.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are essential for that fragrant kick.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture to the sauce without overpowering other flavors.
• Cornstarch slurry: Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect, sticky consistency.

Tip: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bourbon Chicken

• Use Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy and tender, unlike chicken breasts which can become dry if overcooked.
• Deglaze with Bourbon Carefully: Bourbon has a high alcohol content, so it can flare up if added too quickly on high heat. Reduce the heat before adding for a safer cooking experience.
• Balance Sweetness and Saltiness: Adjust brown sugar and soy sauce to taste. You can always add a bit more vinegar if you prefer a tangier profile.
• Let it Rest: Once done, let the chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to soak into the meat for even more flavor.

Variations on Bourbon Chicken

• No Alcohol Version: Simply omit the bourbon and add a tablespoon of apple juice or chicken broth instead. You’ll still get that beautiful flavor without the alcohol.
• Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or sambal oelek for a spicy kick.
• Honey Bourbon Chicken: Swap some of the brown sugar for honey to add a rich, floral sweetness.
• Pineapple Bourbon Chicken: Add fresh or canned pineapple chunks during the simmering stage for a tropical twist. The pineapple juice blends beautifully with the sauce for extra depth.

How to Serve Bourbon Chicken

Bourbon Chicken pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed Rice: White or jasmine rice soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: For a healthier twist, serve with brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Add a side of stir-fried or steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to round out the meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: This may sound unusual, but the creamy potatoes complement the sauce well!

How to Store and Reheat Bourbon Chicken

• Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Bourbon Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms up. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make Bourbon Chicken without bourbon?

Yes, absolutely! Simply replace bourbon with apple juice or extra chicken broth. The dish will still have a fantastic depth of flavor.

2. What’s the best type of chicken for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best choice as they stay moist and tender. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, go ahead—just be careful not to overcook them.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Bourbon Chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors develop even more overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

4. Why is my sauce too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, make sure you’re using the cornstarch slurry to thicken it. Add it slowly and let it cook for a few minutes until you achieve the right consistency.

5. What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of American-Chinese fusion right to your kitchen. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a meal prep option that stays delicious throughout the week. Whether you go for the classic recipe or add a unique twist, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.

Still Hungry! Try these chicken recipes:

• Best Honey Jerk Chicken Wings
• Szechuan Chicken
• Mongolian Chicken