5-Ingredient Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe!

Name: 5-Ingredient Easy Bourbon Chicken Recipe!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Transform your weeknight dinners with this simple yet delectable Bourbon Chicken recipe. Made with just five ingredients, this dish marries savory soy sauce with a hint of sweetness, resulting in tender chicken thighs bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick family meal or to impress guests, serve it over rice for a delightful finish.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2025-11-29T08:47:38.528Z

This easy Bourbon Chicken recipe is a family favorite. With its rich flavor and quick prep time, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

A Taste of Bourbon in Your Kitchen

Bourbon chicken is a beloved dish that hails from the culinary traditions of New Orleans. The rich, tangy flavors paired with sweet undertones create a delectable combination that’s hard to resist. This easy recipe allows you to bring the taste of Bourbon Street right into your home, making a flavorful dish that can rival your favorite restaurant.

With its simple preparation, this recipe is tailored for busy weeknights. The use of only five basic ingredients ensures that you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying meals with your loved ones. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a small gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Cooking Made Simple

Cooking should be a joy, not a chore, and this Bourbon Chicken recipe embodies that philosophy. By relying on straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal without the hassle. The time-efficient method ensures that your kitchen remains a stress-free zone while still allowing you to cook a dish that feels gourmet.

This recipe is also incredibly flexible. You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste preferences. Additionally, substituting the chicken thighs with chicken breasts or any other protein can provide a whole new twist on this classic recipe, appealing to a variety of palates in your household.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Serving bourbon chicken over a bed of fluffy rice is a classic choice that perfectly complements the tender chicken and rich sauce. However, don’t hesitate to get creative! This dish also pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, adding color and nutrients to your meal while balancing the savory flavors of the chicken.

For those looking to spice things up, consider garnishing your Bourbon Chicken with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added texture and flavor. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or an iced tea to elevate your dining experience. With these simple additions, you’ll transform an easy recipe into an impressive meal fit for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced

Serve this dish over rice for a complete meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add chicken pieces and cook until browned.

Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the chicken and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve over rice.

Enjoy your homemade Bourbon Chicken!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of this delectable Bourbon Chicken, you'll be pleased to know that it's easy to store. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

When reheating, simply place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce's moisture, ensuring that each bite remains flavorful. This allows you to enjoy the delightful taste of Bourbon Chicken even on your busiest days.

Variations to Try

For those who wish to experiment, there are plenty of variations to this classic Bourbon Chicken recipe. One popular twist is adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce, giving it a spicy kick that enhances the sweet and savory notes. This variation is perfect for spice lovers looking to elevate their dining experience.

Another wonderful idea is to incorporate vegetables into the dish. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli can be added to the skillet during the cooking process, enriching the dish and providing a colorful, nutritious touch. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide important nutrients, making your meal both tasty and healthful.

Cooking Tips for Success

To make the most out of your Bourbon Chicken, be sure to slice the chicken thighs evenly, ensuring they cook at the same rate. This will help prevent any pieces from being undercooked or overdone. Additionally, allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes, if time permits, can help enhance the flavor even more.

Always taste the sauce before serving! If you find it needs a touch more sweetness or a hint of acidity, feel free to adjust the recipe to match your palate. Every kitchen is different, and these small adjustments can ensure that your Bourbon Chicken is perfectly tailored to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breast or drumsticks if preferred.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.