Why Make This Recipe
Bourbon chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and sweet sauce. The bourbon adds a unique flavor that makes this meal stand out. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you have guests. Serve it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, cover, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and add it to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Serve the bourbon chicken hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
How to Serve Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon chicken is best served hot. You can place it on a bed of rice to soak up the sauce or enjoy it with steamed vegetables. For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top as a garnish.
How to Store Bourbon Chicken
If you have leftovers, store the bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Bourbon Chicken
- Marinate Longer: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat can help caramelize the sugars in the sauce, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the skillet while cooking. This will not only add color but also make the dish more nutritious.
FAQs
Can I use another type of alcohol instead of bourbon?
Yes, you can use whiskey or even apple juice for a non-alcoholic version, which still adds great flavor.
Is bourbon chicken spicy?
No, bourbon chicken is not meant to be spicy. It has a sweet and savory flavor instead.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is recommended, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, cover, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and add it to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Serve the bourbon chicken hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes

Name: Yumi HwagByline: Founder & Recipe Developer, YumimealsBio : Yumi tests weeknight-friendly air fryer, slow cooker, and BBQ recipes in a small home kitchen. She focuses on simple steps, real-family testing, and clear food-safety guidance. Contact: [email protected]

