As a food blogger, I love sharing recipes that combine bold flavors and simplicity. The Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin is a perfect example.
It delivers tender chicken coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. This dish blends Chinese-American flavors with a hint of bourbon for extra depth.
I enjoy how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for busy evenings. The sauce caramelizes beautifully, giving every bite a mouthwatering glaze.
A fan of takeout-inspired meals or trying something new, this recipe will not disappoint. I make it often because it’s so versatile and delicious.
Pair it with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy to make at home.
How To Prepare Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Calories: Approximately 380
Cuisine: American-Chinese Fusion
Yield: 4 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 pound (approximately 450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
- 8 ounces (about 225g) mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup apple juice or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (optional)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/8 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly on the diagonal, for garnish
How To Make
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté until they become golden brown and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple juice or chicken stock, bourbon (if using), hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and liquid smoke (if using).
5. Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
If you sautéed vegetables earlier, return them to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Special Note:
While the bourbon adds a unique depth of flavor, it’s optional. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can omit it without compromising the dish’s overall taste.
Additionally, the liquid smoke provides a subtle smoky flavor reminiscent of grilled chicken, but it’s also optional.
Tips For Perfect Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin
1. Use Fresh Chicken Thighs for Juicier Results: Chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful than breasts. I always use fresh, boneless, skinless thighs to ensure the meat stays moist and absorbs the sauce well.
2. Coat the Chicken Properly: Tossing the chicken pieces in cornstarch before cooking helps create a slightly crispy texture. This step also allows the sauce to stick better to the chicken, creating a velvety coating.
3. Balance Sweetness and Savory Flavors: Adjust the brown sugar and soy sauce according to your preference. If you like a deeper flavor, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to complement the bourbon.
4. Don’t Skip the Bourbon (or Substitute Wisely): Bourbon adds depth and richness to the dish. If you prefer not to use alcohol, try substituting with apple cider or a mix of water and vanilla extract to maintain a similar complexity.
5. Simmer for a Perfect Sauce: Let the sauce simmer until it thickens and coats the chicken evenly. I find that stirring occasionally while simmering prevents burning and ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Is It Safe For Diabetics Patients?
The Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin can be modified to be more suitable for diabetic patients. While the original recipe includes brown sugar and sweet sauces, these can be adjusted or replaced with low-sugar alternatives.
For example, I recommend using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol and choosing a low-sodium soy sauce. Avoid adding liquid smoke or any high-sugar ingredients if you’re managing blood sugar levels.
Since the dish is high in protein and can be paired with fiber-rich vegetables, it can fit into a diabetic-friendly meal plan when adjusted appropriately.
However, portion control is crucial, as even small amounts of sweeteners can impact glucose levels. Always consult a healthcare provider before making dietary changes.
Storage Tips Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin
Storing the Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin is simple and ensures leftovers stay fresh. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 2 months.
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid using a microwave, as it can dry out the chicken.
I always recommend storing the chicken and rice separately if served together, as it helps retain the best texture for both. Proper storage and reheating ensure the dish tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
Health Benefits
The Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin can offer health benefits when prepared with balanced ingredients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
Incorporating garlic and ginger not only enhances flavor but also provides natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers boosts fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health.
Using reduced sodium soy sauce and cutting back on sugar makes it heart-friendly and better for managing blood sugar levels.
Homemade preparation ensures control over ingredients, reducing unhealthy fats and excess sodium. With mindful tweaks, this dish can be both flavorful and nutritious, fitting well into a balanced diet.
Conclusion
The Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin is a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that feels like a takeout favorite made right in your kitchen. I love how simple it is to prepare while still delivering such rich and satisfying results.
Serving it over rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or as a standalone dish, it’s guaranteed to impress. By making this recipe at home, you can control the ingredients and customize it to your taste.
It’s one of those meals that always earns compliments and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
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Bourbon Chicken Recipe Leeann Chin
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 pound approximately 450g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion sliced (optional)
- 8 ounces about 225g mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup apple juice or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey optional
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/8 teaspoon liquid smoke optional
- 2 green onions sliced thinly on the diagonal, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté until they become golden brown and tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple juice or chicken stock, bourbon (if using), hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and liquid smoke (if using).
Combine and Simmer
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- If you sautéed vegetables earlier, return them to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve
- Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Notes
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