Easy Bourbon Chicken (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
2 pounds boneless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized cubes
02 -
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
03 -
1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (canola or vegetable)
04 -
4 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
05 -
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
→ Glaze Sauce
06 -
1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
07 -
1/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
08 -
2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
09 -
1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
→ Thickening & Garnish
10 -
1 teaspoon cornstarch
11 -
1 tablespoon cool water
12 -
Toasted sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)
13 -
Fresh scallions, sliced thin for garnish (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Warm both the sesame oil and canola oil together in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until the oils shimmer slightly.
02 -
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through completely, about 6-8 minutes.
03 -
Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If the pan seems dry, drizzle in a bit more oil.
04 -
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, and rice wine vinegar until the sugar dissolves completely.
05 -
Pour the bourbon sauce mixture over the chicken and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
06 -
While the sauce simmers, mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl until smooth and lump-free.
07 -
Gradually drizzle the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce coats the chicken beautifully. Add more cornstarch mixture if you prefer a thicker glaze.
08 -
Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh green onions if desired for extra flavor and color.
# Notes:
01 -
This one-pan wonder delivers restaurant-quality bourbon chicken in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
02 -
Perfect served over jasmine rice, lo mein noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
03 -
The bourbon adds depth of flavor but cooks off during the simmering process, leaving behind a rich, complex taste.