Sticky Bourbon Chicken is a savory-sweet dish made with tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy sauce of bourbon, brown sugar, and soy sauce. The caramelized glaze creates bold flavor and a sticky texture that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or vegetables.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
2 green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and fully cooked through. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Add minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the bourbon and simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar until combined.
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry.
Pour the slurry into the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until glossy and coats the chicken evenly.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve hot over steamed rice.
Notes
Chicken thighs stay juicier, but chicken breast can also be used.
Adjust sweetness by reducing the brown sugar if desired.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water while reheating.
