Get ready for a main course that’s bursting with irresistible sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, all cooked up in a single skillet for minimal cleanup! Imagine tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken glazed in a rich, glossy bourbon sauce with hints of ginger, garlic, and soy, filling your kitchen with an aroma that’s simply mouthwatering. What makes this One-Skillet Bourbon Chicken truly special is its incredible depth of flavor achieved with everyday ingredients and how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. You’ll love how this dish mimics your favorite takeout, but fresher and made right in your own kitchen. Perfect when you crave something a little indulgent but still easy, a fantastic way to impress with minimal effort, or when you simply want a reliable and incredibly delicious chicken dinner. You won’t believe how simple it is to create such a flavor-packed meal!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30-35 mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 small Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Bourbon (see note for non-alcoholic option)
- 1/3 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup Chicken Broth
- 1/4 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar
- 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Ketchup
- 1 tsp Grated Fresh Ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Cooked Rice, for serving
- Sesame Seeds and Sliced Green Onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated. (The cornstarch helps create a slightly crispy exterior and thickens the sauce later).
- Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: To the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Bourbon: Pour in the bourbon. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. (The alcohol will cook off).
- Create Sauce: Whisk in the soy sauce, chicken broth, light brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Glaze: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly with the bourbon sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to glaze the chicken beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the Bourbon Chicken hot over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
Recipe Notes:
- Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs are recommended as they stay more tender and juicy, but chicken breasts work well too. Just be careful not to overcook breasts.
- Bourbon Flavor: The bourbon adds a distinct depth and slight sweetness. Most of the alcohol cooks off. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with an equal amount of apple juice or chicken broth, though the flavor profile will be different.
- Ginger Power: Freshly grated ginger provides the best flavor, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch (use about half the amount).
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar to your preference. If you like it less sweet, start with a little less.
- Spice It Up: For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like after simmering, you can make a small slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stirring it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
- Serving Suggestions: This Bourbon Chicken is fantastic served over fluffy white or brown rice. It also pairs well with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple Asian-style slaw.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
And there you have it – an incredibly flavorful and easy One-Skillet Bourbon Chicken that’s sure to become a new weeknight favorite! This dish delivers a delightful punch of sweet and savory goodness with minimal effort and cleanup. We hope you savor every delicious bite! Happy cooking!
