Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering chicken recipe that's about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner! This Bourbon Chicken (without the bourbon) is a magical blend of sweet, savory, and absolutely irresistible flavors that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine tender chicken pieces glazed in a rich, glossy sauce that's packed with more flavor than you thought possible in just 40 minutes of cooking time.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs, cubed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by cutting boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking and consistent texture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create a flavorful marinade. Mix thoroughly until sugar is completely dissolved.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, allowing the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Add chicken cubes to the hot skillet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure proper browning. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to achieve golden-brown edges.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, reducing heat to medium-low. Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat evenly and allow the sauce to reduce and thicken.
- Check chicken's internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. The sauce should have a glossy, slightly sticky consistency.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to further thicken and flavors to meld.
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions before serving. Ideal served over steamed rice or with roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve those perfect golden-brown edges that lock in flavor.
- Don't rush the simmering process - letting the sauce reduce slowly creates a rich, glossy coating that makes this dish truly special.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking if you have extra time.
- Serve over steamed rice or with roasted vegetables to soak up that delicious sauce.
- Freshly chopped green onions are not just a garnish - they add a bright, fresh finish to the rich sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
