Bourbon Chicken is a beloved takeout-style dish known for its glossy sauce, tender chicken, and irresistible balance of sweet and savory flavors. Despite the name, this recipe doesn’t rely on bourbon itself—instead, it gets its signature taste from brown sugar, soy sauce, apple juice, and a hint of spice. Legend has it the dish was first created by a Chinese cook working in a restaurant on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, giving it both its name and its flair.
Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying without ordering takeout.
Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Chicken
Restaurant-style flavor made at home
One-pan recipe for easy cleanup
Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce
Perfect served over rice or noodles
This recipe comes together quickly but tastes like it simmered all day.
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
¼ teaspoon ginger
¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ cup apple juice
⅓ cup light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
½ cup water
⅓ cup soy sauce
Directions
Brown the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.Make the sauce
Add garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, apple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, cider vinegar, water, and soy sauce to the skillet. Heat over medium heat, stirring until well mixed and the sugar is fully dissolved.Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a hard boil.Finish cooking
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice and enjoy.
Tips for the Best Bourbon Chicken
Cut chicken into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
Simmer uncovered to help the sauce thicken naturally.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
For extra thickness, simmer a few extra minutes until sauce is glossy.
Serving Suggestions
Bourbon Chicken is best served over hot white or jasmine rice, but it also pairs well with fried rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Bourbon Chicken contain alcohol?
No. Despite the name, this recipe does not contain bourbon or any alcohol.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well and stay extra juicy.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild kick. Reduce or omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The flavor improves as it sits. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
Servings
4–6 Servings
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
¼ teaspoon ginger
¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ cup apple juice
⅓ cup light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
½ cup water
⅓ cup soy sauce
Instructions
Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2
Add remaining ingredients to the skillet. Heat over medium, stirring until combined and sugar dissolves.
Step 3
Return chicken to skillet and bring to a boil.
Step 4
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until sauce thickens.
Step 5
Serve hot over rice.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Nutritional values vary depending on portion size and ingredients used. This information is approximate and not intended as medical advice.
