Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water (for cornstarch mixture)
- Optional – sliced green onions or chives to garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, apple juice, water, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and ground black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Chicken: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce by approximately half.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the skillet, stirring quickly to incorporate. Continue cooking for 1 minute until the sauce thickens.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the bourbon chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions or chives if desired.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat compared to chicken breasts.
- Apple juice adds natural sweetness and mimics the bourbon flavor without alcohol.
- The sauce can be adjusted for sweetness or tanginess by varying the brown sugar or apple cider vinegar according to taste.
- Serve with steamed white rice or brown rice for a complete meal.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American