Hey there, food lovers! If you’re looking for a delicious dinner that packs a punch, look no further than my Bourbon chicken recipe, Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a sweet yet tangy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
I remember the first time I made it for my family; the kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s one of those meals that not only satisfies your taste buds but also creates wonderful memories around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry
This Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry is everything you want in a quick weeknight dinner. First off, it’s super easy to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a glaze that clings to the chicken and veggies, making every bite a flavorful experience. Plus, it’s versatile!
You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out the fridge. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Quick and Flavorful
Another reason to love this dish? It’s packed with flavor without any complicated techniques. All you need is a skillet or wok, which means less mess and fewer dishes to clean up afterward. I often make this when I’m short on time but still want something hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Family-Friendly
This chicken stir fry recipe is loved by adults and kids alike. My son, who’s six, can’t get enough of the sticky sauce! When he helps me in the kitchen, his eyes light up when I tell him we’re making this dish. It’s a fun way to get him involved while teaching him about cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry

- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups stir fry vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 1/4 cup bourbon (or substitute with apple juice)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 700mg
Steps to Create Your Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry
- Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat everything evenly. If you want a thicker sauce, add cornstarch mixed with a little water.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
- Serve warm over cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips for Making the Best Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry
To really elevate the flavors, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking. This way, it absorbs all that delicious bourbon flavor. Also, feel free to mix up the vegetables! I often use whatever’s in season. One time, I made it with snap peas and water chestnuts, and it was a hit. And don’t skip the garlic and ginger; they add so much depth to the dish.
Make it Your Own
If you’re looking for a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. You can also swap out the bourbon for a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity twist. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry is best served over a bed of fluffy rice. You can use white or brown rice, depending on your preference. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice! Pair it with a simple cucumber salad or spring rolls for a complete meal. I often serve it with some homemade egg rolls for a fun Asian-inspired dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. You’ll find that the flavors meld even more after sitting for a day.
Final Thoughts
Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry is one of those recipes that I can’t recommend enough. It’s quick, delicious, and family-approved, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a gathering, it’s sure to impress. So grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry?
You’ll need chicken breasts, mixed vegetables, bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Feel free to add your favorite veggies!
How do I make Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry?
Start by cooking the chicken in a skillet, then add the veggies. Pour the sauce over, cook until thickened, and serve over rice.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, chicken thighs work great for this dish! They’ll add a bit more flavor and tenderness, which is perfect for stir fry.
What can I serve with Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry?
It pairs well with rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles. You can also serve a side salad or spring rolls for a complete meal.
Is Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry spicy?
This recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat if you prefer a kick!
Sticky Bourbon Chicken Stir Fry
A quick and delicious stir fry combining chicken, vegetables, and a sweet bourbon sauce.
- Total Time: 30
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 1/4 cup bourbon (or substitute with apple juice)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat evenly. Add cornstarch mixed with a little water if you want a thicker sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
- Serve warm over cooked rice.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
Nutrition
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 28g