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Bourbon Chicken

A savory dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce, perfect for comforting weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs Tender main protein that soaks up the sauce well.
  • 2 tbsp oil Necessary for cooking the chicken, facilitating browning.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch Acts as a thickener for the sauce, creating a glossy finish.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce Adds saltiness and depth of flavor to the dish.
  • 1/4 cup bourbon Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness and complexity.
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup Enhances sweetness with natural, robust flavor.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Offers additional sweetness and a hint of molasses.
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar Contributes tanginess to balance the flavors.
  • 3 cloves garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and flavor.
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger Adds a spicy, fragrant note that enhances the dish.
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper Provides a mild spicy kick to the dish.
Garnish and Serving
  • 2 scallions chopped green onions Offers freshness and color as a garnish.
  • 3 cups prepared brown rice Serves as a healthy foundation for the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Coat the chicken: Place the chicken in a medium bowl and sprinkle 2 teaspoons of cornstarch over the top. Stir to coat evenly.
Cooking
  1. Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, mix low-sodium soy sauce, bourbon, pure maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and the remaining cornstarch.
  2. Brown the chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken, and brown until cooked through.
  3. Add the sauce: Pour in the bourbon sauce, stirring until glossy and thickened, about 2-4 minutes.
Serving
  1. Add green onions: Stir in chopped green onions and serve hot over brown rice, garnished with additional green onions.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Use fresh garlic and ginger for maximum flavor impact.