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Bourbon Chicken Bites

Plate of Bourbon Chicken Bites glazed in a rich sauce, served with white rice and garnished with chopped green onions.

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Bourbon Chicken Bites are tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, sweet, and sticky bourbon-infused sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup apple juice
  • 1/2 cup unsalted chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place in a zip-top bag.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Seal and shake to coat chicken.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken in two batches until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
  4. Add another tablespoon of oil and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in apple juice, chicken stock, bourbon, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
  6. Add brown sugar and ground ginger, stir until dissolved.
  7. Mix remaining 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk into sauce.
  8. Return cooked chicken to skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  9. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens. Garnish with green onions if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs but adjust cook time to prevent drying.
  • Replace bourbon with apple juice or apple cider for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Use pineapple juice for a fruitier flavor variation.
  • Recipe can be doubled or frozen for meal prep.
  • Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

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