Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe during a culinary trip to Asia, where I learned about the balance of flavors in their cuisine. After experimenting with bourbon, I perfected this dish that combines sweet, savory, and smoky notes. It's become a staple in my kitchen, often served for gatherings and special occasions. Each bite reminds me of my culinary adventures."

With over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, I specialize in creating delicious and approachable recipes. My passion for cooking and exploring global flavors has led me to develop over a thousand recipes, all aimed at bringing authentic tastes to home cooks. I focus on making Asian dishes accessible for everyone.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken served on a plate

Why This Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken Recipe Works

This recipe works because it harmoniously blends the sweetness of bourbon and honey with the umami of soy sauce. The slow braising allows the chicken to absorb these rich flavors, resulting in a tender and juicy dish. The addition of garlic and ginger gives it that authentic Asian flair, making it irresistible.

The technique of searing the chicken first locks in moisture and creates a beautiful crust. The sauce thickens perfectly during the simmering process, coating the chicken and enhancing every bite. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any home cook.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. This ensures each piece gets enough heat for a perfect golden-brown crust. Additionally, letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for a few hours can elevate the flavors even more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. Simply prepare the chicken and sauce, allow it to cool, then store in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.

If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white grape juice. Both will provide a different but equally delicious flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic version, try using a mixture of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for balance.

The chicken is done when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Yes, you can freeze Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare it a day or two ahead of time, refrigerate, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

The best way to reheat Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken turns out too dry after cooking, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: To prevent dryness, always check the internal temperature and remove the chicken from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C). Allowing it to rest will also help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken may not be crispy if it's not seared properly.

Solution: To achieve a crispy exterior, ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and let each piece brown well before turning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can result in a tough texture.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the cooking time and temperature. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, and consider using a timer.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken is undercooked, it may be due to uneven cooking.

Recovery: Ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. If you find any undercooked pieces, return them to the skillet and cook for a few additional minutes.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken may become burnt if the heat is too high.

Prevention: To prevent burning, cook on medium heat and monitor closely. Lower the heat if you notice the chicken browning too quickly.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish turns out too sweet, balance it with a splash of vinegar or add more soy sauce for saltiness.

Too Salty: To fix overly salty chicken, add a bit of water or broth to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the flavors are bland, enhance with fresh herbs or a dash of chili flakes for heat.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken

The key ingredients for this recipe include chicken, which should be fresh and preferably organic for the best flavor. Additionally, bourbon adds a unique sweetness that sets this dish apart. Other essential ingredients like soy sauce and honey contribute to the rich umami flavor.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best taste. Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavors, while a good-quality bourbon enhances the dish's overall depth. Always choose ingredients that are free from preservatives to ensure a wholesome meal.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken for extra flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken thighs can be a great alternative.
  • Bourbon: Choose a bourbon that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will concentrate during cooking. A smoother bourbon will yield a more refined taste in your dish.
  • Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish while still providing the essential umami flavor.
Cooking process for Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken involves a series of simple steps that yield an impressive dish. Start by searing the chicken to create a flavorful crust, then combine it with the sauce and let it simmer. This method allows the chicken to absorb all the wonderful flavors while remaining tender.

Achieving perfect results comes down to monitoring the cooking time and temperature. Make sure to stir occasionally and check the sauce for thickness. The goal is a rich, silky sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken

The key technique in this recipe is the initial searing of the chicken. This step locks in moisture and forms a flavorful crust, which is essential for a delicious outcome. The subsequent simmering allows the chicken to soak up the bourbon-infused sauce, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup bourbon
    Any variety you like
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/4 cup honey
    For sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger
    Minced

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup bourbon
    Any variety you like
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/4 cup honey
    For sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 cup green onions
    Chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    For thickening
  • 1/4 cup water
    For cornstarch mix
  • Sesame seeds
    For garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Begin by cutting the chicken into pieces and gathering all other ingredients. Make sure to have everything ready before you start.

  2. Sear the Chicken

    In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides.

  3. Make the Sauce

    In a bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper.

  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce

    Pour the sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.

  5. Simmer

    Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  6. Thicken the Sauce

    In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water. Stir into the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  7. Garnish and Serve

    Remove from heat, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve warm.

  8. Enjoy

    Pair with rice or noodles for a complete meal and enjoy your delicious Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, consider freezing the chicken for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Savory Braised Bourbon Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. For added flair, garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the braise. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.