Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli Rice (Double Sauce)

If you've ever craved that sweet-savory mall-style Bourbon Chicken, this is the recipe you'll come back to again and again.

It's glossy, garlicky, a little tangy from the splash of vinegar, and it coats tender, golden chicken pieces just like your favorite food-court classic - only fresher and better for you.

I make mine with a double batch of sauce so there's plenty to drizzle over fluffy broccoli rice. It's an easy weeknight dinner that tastes restaurant-quality but comes together in about 30 minutes.

Why You'll Love It

• Double the sauce for that signature glossy finish

• Chicken stays juicy and golden because we pan-fry first, then coat in sauce at the end

• Family-friendly: mild with optional kick of red-pepper flakes

• Quick stovetop recipe so it 's ready in under 30 minutes

• A one-pan + one-pot dinner with built-in veggies thanks to the broccoli rice

Ingredients at a Glance

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika

• Cornstarch for a light crisp edge

For the Sauce

• Hoisin sauce, low-sodium soy sauce

• Butter, fresh garlic & ginger

• Brown sugar for sweetness

• Bourbon whiskey (or apple juice + vinegar for alcohol-free)

• Apple cider vinegar for balance

• Cornstarch slurry to thicken

• Optional red-pepper flakes for gentle heat

For the Broccoli Rice

• Long-grain white rice

• Fresh broccoli florets

• Pinch of salt and butter for flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Broccoli Rice:
   Simmer rice until almost tender, then scatter chopped broccoli florets on top for the last few minutes of cooking. Fluff to mix.

2. Pan-Fry the Chicken:
   Season and lightly dust chicken with cornstarch. Sear in a hot skillet until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same pan, melt butter, sauté garlic and ginger, then whisk in hoisin, soy, brown sugar, bourbon, and vinegar. Simmer until glossy, finishing with the cornstarch slurry.

4. Combine & Serve:
   Toss chicken in the hot sauce just before serving so it stays juicy with a slight sear. Spoon over broccoli rice, drizzle extra sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Tips for Foolproof Success

• Add vinegar to balance sweetness. Don't skip it.

• Use chicken thighs for the most tender texture.

• For vibrant broccoli, keep florets small and steam them at the end so they stay bright green.

• Taste and adjust the sauce. You can add a splash of water if it's too strong or an extra spoon of brown sugar if you like it sweeter.

This Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli Rice is one of those dishes you'll want on repeat. It's quick, comforting, and full of flavor. Double the sauce once, and you'll never go back to takeout!

If you make this recipe, tag me on Instagram [@HomeCookVibe] and use the hashtag #StayForDinner so I can see your beautiful plates.