Delicious Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli – A Sweet and Savory Stir Fry
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli is a perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Inspired by the classic American-Chinese takeout dish, this homemade version is healthier, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will become a go-to favorite. It’s also incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Bourbon Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce or sriracha (optional)
- A pinch of black pepper
For the Broccoli:
- 1 heaping cup fresh broccoli florets
- Water for blanching
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Toss them with cornstarch in a bowl until evenly coated. Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Bourbon Sauce
In the same pan (don’t clean it, keep the flavor!), add soy sauce, water, vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, chili sauce, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat it evenly with the sauce. Simmer together for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak into the chicken.
4. Cook the Broccoli
While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and blanch for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and preserve the bright green color.Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bourbon chicken hot with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Top with the blanched broccoli and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a fresh finish.
Healthy Tips
- Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Substitute brown sugar with honey or coconut sugar.
- Add more veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition.
- Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Broccoli is loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety.
- Ginger and garlic help fight inflammation and support the immune system.
- Apple cider vinegar aids digestion and balances blood sugar levels.
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli is everything you want in a weeknight meal—quick, satisfying, flavorful, and healthy. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent without compromising your health goals. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you’re just craving takeout flavors made clean at home.