bourbon chicken with broccoli (Print Version)

Juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, bourbon-soy glaze—perfect balance of savory and sweet in every bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Preparation

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
02 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Stir Fry

05 - 1 cup broccoli florets
06 - 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

→ Bourbon Sauce

07 - 1/2 cup bourbon
08 - 1/2 cup apple juice
09 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
10 - 2/3 cup soy sauce
11 - 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
12 - 1/4 cup ketchup
13 - 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
14 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
15 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
16 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
17 - 1 cup water

→ Slurry

18 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
19 - 1 tablespoon cold water

# Instructions:

01 - Toss chicken thigh pieces with salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine bourbon, apple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, ground ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly and reserve.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté broccoli florets for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until tender. Remove broccoli and set aside.
04 - Add remaining oil to the pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer, cook for 3 minutes per side or until lightly golden. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon cold water to create a smooth slurry. Reserve.
06 - Pour the bourbon sauce mixture into the pan, bring to a boil, and add the seared chicken. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens.
07 - Return cooked broccoli to the pan and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Mix well and cook briefly until the sauce achieves a glossy, thick texture.

# Notes:

01 - For enhanced flavor, allow the sauce to simmer uncovered until slightly syrupy. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired.