Why Is It Called Bourbon Chicken?

The name comes from bourbon whiskey , a key ingredient in the sauce. Originally developed by Chinese-American chefs in Louisiana (yes—near Bourbon Street), it blends Southern influence with sweet-and-savory Chinese-style cooking. While the bourbon cooks off, it leaves behind rich, smoky, vanilla-like undertones.

🍶 What Is Bourbon Chicken Sauce Made Of?

The delicious sauce that makes Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken so addictive typically includes: Bourbon – adds depth and warmth Soy sauce – brings that savory umami balance Brown sugar & ketchup – for sweetness and body Garlic & ginger – aromatic and fresh Red pepper flakes – subtle heat Cornstarch slurry – for thickening The result is a shiny, sweet-and-spicy glaze that coats every bite of chicken.

🔥 What Does Bourbon Chicken Taste Like?

Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken tastes like a cross between barbecue-glazed chicken and Asian takeout. It’s: Sweet and tangy Slightly smoky from the bourbon Umami-rich from soy and garlic Balanced with just enough heat to keep things interesting It's definitely a crowd-pleaser and great for picky eaters too.

🥡 How Is It Different from Teriyaki?

While both have a glossy finish and sweet-savory profile, bourbon chicken uses bourbon and brown sugar, whereas teriyaki relies on mirin, sake, and sugar. Bourbon chicken is deeper and richer, while teriyaki is lighter and more delicate.

🧃 Can I Make It Without Bourbon?

Absolutely. For a non-alcoholic version , substitute the bourbon with: Apple juice Unsweetened apple cider Or chicken broth + ½ tsp vanilla extract (for complexity) You’ll still get that familiar sticky, sweet flavor without the alcohol.

🧊 How Do I Store and Reheat It?

Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days Freeze in portions for up to 2 months To reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It reheats beautifully! 🔄 Double the batch and freeze half—you’ll thank yourself later on busy nights.

Want another make-ahead favorite packed with bold flavor?

Try our Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe – it’s rich, easy, and freezer-friendly. Next in Part 6 , we’ll wrap up with a quick recap, bonus serving tips, and get you set up for your printable recipe card with SEO features and images.

Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken – A New York Family Favorite, Reimagined

Name: Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken – A New York Family Favorite, Reimagined
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil; ⅓ cup bourbon; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup ketchup; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes; 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry); 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish

Description

Make Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken in 35 minutes! Sweet, sticky, bold flavor with soy sauce, garlic, and bourbon. Easy and family-friendly.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

⅓ cup bourbon

½ cup low-sodium soy sauce

¼ cup ketchup

¼ cup brown sugar

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Set Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and chicken; cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
Stir in garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 more minute.
Add bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir and deglaze the pot.
Seal lid and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes. Naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick release.
Turn to sauté mode again and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens.
Serve hot over rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with green onions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Calories: 385 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 690 mg
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 29 g
Cholesterol: 135 mg