Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli

Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli is a delicious homemade meal that brings together tender chicken thighs, a rich sweet-and-savoury bourbon glaze and vibrant steamed broccoli. Inspired by classic take-away flavours, this quick and satisfying recipe is perfect for busy weeknights while still being impressive enough to serve to family and guests.

The bourbon sauce combines soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic and ginger to create a glossy coating that clings beautifully to every piece of chicken. Served over fluffy rice with tender broccoli, it’s a complete meal packed with comforting flavour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in around 30 minutes.
• Sweet, savoury and full of rich flavour.
• Tender chicken coated in a glossy bourbon sauce.
• Balanced with fresh steamed broccoli.
• Perfect for quick family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch)
• Salt and freshly ground black 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)
• ½ cup chicken broth

For the Broccoli

• 2 cups broccoli florets

Equipment

• Large frying pan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Steamer or microwave-safe dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

1. Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl and coat them with the cornflour, salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
4. Without cleaning the pan, add the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ground ginger, crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and chicken broth.
5. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir until evenly coated.
7. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.
8. Meanwhile, steam the broccoli for 5–7 minutes, until bright green and tender.
9. Serve the bourbon chicken over cooked rice with the steamed broccoli alongside, spooning any extra sauce over the top.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed white rice.
• Try with brown rice or quinoa.
• Pair with spring rolls or egg rolls.
• Add an Asian-inspired salad for a lighter accompaniment.

Tips for Success

• Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Leave the browned bits in the skillet when making the sauce to maximise flavour.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little extra chicken broth.
• Steam the broccoli until just tender to preserve its bright colour.

Variations

• Replace chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Add bell peppers, mushrooms or snow peas to the dish.
• Substitute the bourbon with apple juice or extra chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
• Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free alternative.

Storage

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

Reheat gently in a frying pan with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave individual portions until thoroughly heated.

Recipe Information

• Category: Main Course
• Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be substituted, but they may cook more quickly than thighs.

Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Yes. Apple juice or additional chicken broth can be used as a non-alcoholic alternative.

How do I thin the sauce if it becomes too thick?

Add a small splash of chicken broth while the sauce is simmering until it reaches your preferred consistency.

What should I serve with Bourbon Chicken?

Steamed rice, quinoa, spring rolls, egg rolls or a fresh Asian-inspired salad all pair beautifully with this dish.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli is a quick and flavour-packed meal that delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savoury and comforting flavours. With tender chicken coated in a rich bourbon glaze and fresh broccoli served alongside, it’s an easy homemade dinner that’s sure to become a regular favourite.

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