Savor the rich, savory flavors of Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli , a dish that combines tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce, served alongside crisp-tender broccoli. Perfectly balanced with a touch of spice and sweetness, this meal is a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Pair it with steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor : The bourbon sauce delivers a bold, slightly sweet, and tangy taste reminiscent of your favorite takeout.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable Heat : Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
- Nutritious & Balanced : Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli, this dish is as healthy as it is indulgent.
- Meal Prep Friendly : Make extra portions to enjoy throughout the week—just reheat and serve over rice.
Ingredients 🛒
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs , cut into bite-sized pieces 🍗
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper , to taste
For the Bourbon Sauce:
- ¼ cup bourbon 🥃
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup chicken broth
For the Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets , steamed 🥦
Optional Serving:
- Steamed rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- Extra sauce for drizzling
Instructions 📖
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken : In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. The cornstarch will help create a light, crispy coating when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Oil : Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Chicken : Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes , stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Bourbon Sauce
- Combine Ingredients : In the same skillet, add the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce : Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the Chicken : Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the bourbon sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor : Simmer for 5–7 minutes , allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to absorb the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Steam the Broccoli
- Prepare the Broccoli : While the chicken simmers, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still crisp. You can use a steamer basket or microwave for convenience.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Plate the Dish : Serve the bourbon chicken over steamed rice with the broccoli on the side. Drizzle extra sauce over the top for added flavor.
- Garnish (Optional) : Sprinkle with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a pop of color and texture.
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Bourbon : Use a mid-range bourbon for the best flavor—it doesn’t have to be expensive, but avoid the cheapest options.
- Adjust Sweetness : If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra teaspoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey.
- Add Veggies : Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Make It Spicier : Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a fiery kick.
- Freeze for Later : This dish freezes beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time : 10 minutes
- Cook Time : 20 minutes
- Total Time : 30 minutes
- Calories : 400 kcal per serving
- Servings : 4 servings
Why This Recipe Works
This Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The bourbon sauce adds depth and richness, while the tender chicken and crisp broccoli create a satisfying texture contrast. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to impress guests, this dish delivers on all fronts.
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Ready to whip up this flavorful Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli ? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media—we’d love to see how you customized your dish. Have a unique twist on this recipe? Let us know—we’re always excited to hear your ideas!
