Ingredients

3 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, chopped into 1-inch pieces)

4 tablespoons cornstarch (plus ½ – 1 tablespoon extra, see notes)

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or use sesame oil for more flavor)

4 cloves garlic (minced)

1 cup chicken broth (use low-sodium if you prefer less salt)

⅔ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if you prefer less salt)

⅓ cup apple juice

⅓ cup ketchup

¼ cup bourbon (see notes for a kid-friendly version)

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or less, to taste)

1 cup brown sugar (dark or light)

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or use more for a spicy sauce!)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix 4 tablespoons cornstarch with salt and pepper. Add the chopped chicken and toss well to coat completely.

Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding. Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes, then turn each piece and cook another 3 minutes until browned. Remove chicken and set aside. Cook in batches if needed.

Step 3: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, apple juice, ketchup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ground ginger, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 5: Reduce heat to low and return the browned chicken to the skillet. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce reduces by half.

Step 6 (Optional): To thicken the sauce, mix ½ – 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes and remove from heat.

Step 7: Serve the bourbon chicken hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For a kid-friendly version, omit the bourbon and replace it with an equal amount of apple juice or chicken broth.

Use sesame oil instead of vegetable oil for a deeper, nutty flavor.

If you like extra spice, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when browning chicken to get a nice sear.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and tend to stay juicier. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take a bit longer to brown and cook through.

Is it necessary to add bourbon?

Bourbon adds a distinct depth and slight sweetness to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with additional apple juice or chicken broth for a similar flavor profile without the alcohol.