Description
Tender pieces of chicken coated in a glossy sweet and savory bourbon sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. A flavorful takeout-style dinner made at home that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 700 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Sauce and Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple juice or water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
Thickener
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Toss the bite-size chicken pieces with black pepper to evenly coat and season the meat.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to become hot but not smoking.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Combine the sauce ingredients: Pour in the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple juice (or water), and apple cider vinegar; stir well to combine.
- Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Make the slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth to create a slurry.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry into the skillet and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay especially juicy, but chicken breast can also be used for a leaner option.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with apple juice plus an extra splash of vinegar to maintain the tanginess.
- Add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Chicken
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Asian-inspired
