Savory Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Looking for a mouthwatering weeknight dinner that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory? Look no further than this delectable bourbon chicken with broccoli recipe. The rich flavors of bourbon meld perfectly with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Prepare to be amazed as the bourbon caramelizes in the pan, transforming into a sticky glaze that clings to every morsel. This is the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is surprisingly easy to whip up using simple pantry staples. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the sauce bubbles down into a glossy finish is simply irresistible.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this bourbon chicken with broccoli recipe is sure to become a household favorite. The versatility of this dish allows for easy customization to suit your preferences, making it a versatile and satisfying option for any night of the week. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout spot!

Quick Benefits

• Moist and flavorful chicken: Coating the chicken with cornstarch before browning helps lock in moisture and ensures the sauce adheres well, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken pieces.
• Customizable flavors: Easily tailor the dish to your taste preferences by adjusting the spice level or sweetness to create a personalized version of bourbon chicken that suits your palate.
• Quick and convenient meal: With pantry basics and a straightforward cooking process, this bourbon chicken with broccoli recipe offers a weeknight dinner solution that feels like indulgent takeout without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The sweet and savory bourbon sauce creates a rich, flavorful dish that tastes like takeout at home without the hassle.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: Quick to make with pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave a comforting, delicious meal.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love this dish, going back for seconds thanks to its sticky glaze and tender chicken.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe to your preferences by swapping chicken thighs for breast or tofu, adjusting spice levels, or opting for a non-alcoholic version.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch of bourbon chicken with broccoli and store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze portions for later easy reheating.
• Cultural Fusion: Enjoy the fusion of American and Chinese flavors in this classic dish inspired by Bourbon Street, bringing a touch of restaurant-style magic to your table.
• Glossy Finish: The cornstarch coating on the chicken locks in moisture and creates a silky glaze that coats every piece, adding to the overall appeal of the dish.
• Customizable Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa, and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for added texture and color.
• Balanced Heat: The addition of red pepper flakes provides a gentle heat that can be adjusted to suit your spice preference, adding a nice kick to the dish.
• Crisp and Vibrant Vegetables: Sautéing the broccoli separately and adding it at the end ensures it stays crisp-tender with vibrant color, enhancing the overall presentation and texture.

Ingredients for Savory Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Chicken Preparation

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Stir Fry

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

Bourbon Sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2/3 cup soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup apple juice
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Slurry

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water

Pro Tips for Savory Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

To ensure juicy and flavorful chicken, lightly coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch before browning them. This step helps lock in moisture and aids in creating a delicious sauce that clings to the chicken.

For a non-alcoholic version, you can use apple juice or chicken broth alone instead of bourbon. Just keep in mind that the depth of flavor may vary, so adjust seasonings accordingly to enhance the taste profile of the dish.

To control the level of spiciness in your bourbon chicken, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes. Add more for a kick of heat or reduce for a milder flavor, catering to your personal preference.

How to Make Savory Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Coat chicken thigh pieces with salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Blend Bourbon Sauce

Combine bourbon, apple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, ground ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Broccoli

In a pan over medium heat, sauté broccoli florets in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until tender. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Brown Chicken

Heat the remaining oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Slurry

Whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl to make a smooth slurry. Set aside.

Step 6: Simmer Sauce and Chicken

Pour the bourbon sauce into the pan and bring to a boil. Add the seared chicken and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Finish with Broccoli and Slurry

Add the cooked broccoli back to the pan and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook briefly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Storage Tips

Once you have made your delicious bourbon chicken with broccoli, it is important to store any leftovers properly. The dish can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help revive the sauce and maintain its texture and flavor. Simply warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

If you want to freeze the bourbon chicken with broccoli, allow it to cool completely before portioning it into resealable bags or containers. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a bit of water during reheating can help rejuvenate the sauce and ensure a tasty meal. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy this flavorful dish even on your busiest days.

Remember, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences by adjusting the spice level or sweetness. Feel free to swap the protein with chicken breast or tofu for a different twist. If you don’t have bourbon on hand, whiskey can be used as a substitute, or you can increase the apple juice and add a touch of vanilla extract for depth. Serve the bourbon chicken with broccoli over rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a satisfying meal that is easy to store and reheat for future enjoyment.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to make this recipe vegetarian, you can swap the chicken thighs for extra-firm tofu or seitan. These alternatives will absorb the flavorful sauce well and provide a satisfying meatless option.

For a non-alcoholic version of this dish, you can omit the bourbon and increase the amount of apple juice. To mimic the depth of flavor that bourbon provides, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract. This substitution will still yield a delicious sweet and savory sauce without the alcohol content.

If you prefer a spicier or milder dish, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. Adding more flakes will increase the heat level, while reducing the amount will result in a milder flavor profile. Customize the spice level to make the dish perfect for your palate.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your bourbon chicken with broccoli, consider serving it in a unique way by creating a build-your-own bowl station. Set out bowls of steamed rice, quinoa, and cauliflower rice, along with toppings like sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and crushed peanuts. Let your guests customize their bowls by adding the bourbon chicken and broccoli on top, then drizzle with extra sauce and sprinkle with their favorite toppings for a colorful and flavorful meal.

For a fun twist on presentation, try serving the bourbon chicken with broccoli in lettuce cups. Spoon the saucy chicken and broccoli mixture into large lettuce leaves, such as butter or iceberg lettuce, and garnish with additional red pepper flakes and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing and light meal. The combination of the sticky sweet chicken and crunchy lettuce creates a satisfying contrast of textures that will surely be a hit at your next gathering.

FAQs for Savory Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Yes, you may use apple juice or chicken broth alone if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, but flavor depth will differ.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this dish?

A touch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat. Adjust the amount up or down to suit your tastes.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

This dish keeps well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. For freezing, let it cool fully and portion it into resealable bags or containers. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Why should I coat the chicken with cornstarch before browning?

Lightly coating bite-sized chicken with cornstarch before browning locks in moisture and helps the sauce adhere, resulting in juicier chicken with a better texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bourbon chicken with broccoli is a delightful dish that bridges the flavors of sweet and savory with an enticing glossy finish that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire with its simple yet impressive flavors.

Remember, don’t be afraid to customize this dish to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for a meatless version with tofu, swap bourbon for whiskey, or adjust the spice levels, make it your own. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and the irresistible sticky sauce is bound to bring everyone back to the table for more. So go ahead, whip up this bourbon chicken with broccoli and savor every bite of this delicious and comforting meal.