Panda Express Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Panda Express Bourbon Chicken has become a fan favorite for its irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. This beloved American-Chinese dish is known for its tender chicken coated in a rich, sticky sauce that keeps people coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breast for leaner options
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup bourbon or bourbon-style glaze
- ⅓ cup brown sugar or maple syrup for lean cuisine version
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 –2 tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy bourbon chicken recipe
Instructions
- Cut 1 lb of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry to remove excess moisture—this ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the sauce sticks well.
- In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup bourbon or bourbon-style glaze, ⅓ cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a lean cuisine maple bourbon chicken variation), 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger.
- Add 1–2 tsp red pepper flakes if you’re making a spicy bourbon chicken recipe.
- Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes. Pour the bourbon sauce over the chicken and simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully coated, about 6–8 minutes.
- Taste the sauce and adjust for sweetness with more sugar or maple syrup. Increase heat with extra red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. How to make Panda Express Bourbon Chicken
- If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir into the skillet. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until glossy.
Video
Notes
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the glaze and tenderness. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can dry out the chicken.