Bourbon Chicken is a saucy, sweet, and savory dish that originated in New Orleans but became a favorite in American-Chinese takeout spots. Despite its name, this dish doesn’t have to contain alcohol—though traditional versions use bourbon whiskey for its rich, smoky undertone. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a glossy glaze made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Every bite bursts with flavor—sticky, caramelized, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. It’s an easy stovetop recipe that feels like restaurant-style comfort food.
2. Ingredients
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1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
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¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
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¼ cup bourbon whiskey (or apple juice for non-alcoholic)
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⅓ cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
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2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
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Sesame seeds, for garnish
3. Instructions
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Cook the chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside. -
Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the soy sauce, bourbon (or apple juice), brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer. -
Combine and simmer:
Return the chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce starts to thicken. -
Thicken the glaze:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and clings to the chicken. -
Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving.
4. Preparation Time
Total: 30 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 4 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 385 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 870 mg
7. Tips
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For deeper flavor: Use chicken thighs—they stay juicy and absorb the sauce beautifully.
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Make it non-alcoholic: Substitute bourbon with apple juice, pineapple juice, or a mix of both.
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Extra sticky texture: Let the sauce reduce a little longer at the end, stirring often.
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Serve it right: Pair with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles to soak up the rich glaze.
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Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats perfectly, making it ideal for lunch boxes.
8. Final Thought
Bourbon Chicken delivers everything you crave in one skillet—tender chicken, a sticky caramelized glaze, and bold flavors that dance between sweet and savory. Whether you’re cooking it for a quick dinner or as a weekend indulgence, it brings that takeout-style magic straight to your kitchen.
