Are you ready to add a little kick to your meals? Bourbon and spices can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering spicy bourbon chicken recipes that will leave you craving for more. From classic comfort food to international flavors, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory, tangy and smoky, or spicy and bold, there’s something on this list for everyone. Bourbon chicken is already a crowd-pleaser, but adding some heat takes it to the next level. So grab your apron, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 Spicy Bourbon Chicken Recipes with a Kick!
Classic Bourbon Chicken with Garlic and Ginger
This iconic Chinese-American dish combines the rich flavors of bourbon, garlic, and ginger to create a savory and aromatic chicken dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bourbon, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Bourbon Glazed Chicken Skewers
Sweet and savory, these chicken skewers are perfect for a dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, bourbon, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-bourbon glaze evenly over the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Bourbon Chicken Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Kentucky’s finest spirit with this spicy bourbon chicken stir-fry. A perfect blend of savory and sweet, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey (or substitute with soy sauce for a non-alcoholic option)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
4. Add remaining oil to the skillet, then add scallions and garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, pouring bourbon mixture over top.
7. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce is slightly thickened.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Bourbon Chicken with Pineapple
This recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon and chicken with the sweetness of pineapple, all in the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together bourbon, honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in diced pineapple.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional pineapple slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Bourbon BBQ Chicken Wings
A classic comfort food gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of bourbon and a tangy BBQ sauce, making these chicken wings perfect for game day or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup bourbon
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bourbon, BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Serve hot with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bourbon Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with this sticky and flavorful Bourbon Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe. The combination of sweet teriyaki sauce, rich bourbon, and crispy chicken skin will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Bourbon Chicken with Bacon
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the richness of bacon with the depth of maple syrup and bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top each breast with bacon pieces, then drizzle the maple-bourbon mixture evenly over the top of each breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Peach Glazed Chicken
Sweet and savory, this Bourbon Peach Glazed Chicken recipe combines the richness of bourbon with the juiciness of peaches to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for special occasions or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup peach preserves
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, bourbon, honey, and mustard.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the bourbon peach glaze all over the chicken breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and place the chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Bourbon Chicken Pasta
A spicy twist on classic chicken pasta, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the richness of bourbon and savory chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and bourbon to the skillet. Stir to combine, then add chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken in the skillet. Toss until well coated with the Cajun bourbon sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bourbon Orange Chicken with Sesame Seeds
This recipe combines the bold flavors of bourbon, orange zest, and sesame seeds to create a unique and delicious chicken dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bourbon, orange marmalade, soy sauce, honey, and orange zest.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Bourbon Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and savory recipe that combines the richness of bourbon, the depth of smokiness, and the freshness of citrus. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
– Sliced radishes, lime crema, or diced avocado, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade; let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill chicken until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, lime wedges, cilantro leaves (if using), and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Mustard Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with the rich flavors of bourbon and mustard. This sweet and tangy glaze is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, mustard, honey, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the bourbon-mustard glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Brown Sugar Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet and savory, these Bourbon Brown Sugar Chicken Drumsticks are perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering. Tender drumsticks smothered in a rich bourbon-infused glaze will become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (adjust to taste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the glaze mixture; toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper; arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Sriracha Chicken Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these bold and tangy Bourbon Sriracha Chicken Sliders, perfect for a quick dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, Sriracha, brown sugar, garlic powder, and Greek yogurt.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken on buns, topped with lettuce, tomato, and red onion (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Cherry Chicken Salad
This sweet and savory chicken salad recipe combines the richness of bourbon with the tartness of cherries, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its bold flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup bourbon-glazed cherries (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mixed greens, bourbon-glazed cherries, blue cheese, and pecans.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cherries if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Bourbon Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor cooking with these sweet and savory kabobs, featuring bourbon-glazed chicken, juicy pineapple, and smoky peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the bourbon glaze evenly over the kabobs.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Bourbon Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, these Bourbon Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas combine the smoky heat of chipotles with the richness of bourbon and tender chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken breasts, chipotle peppers, bourbon, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Cook the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, place a tortilla in the oven for 2-3 minutes to warm.
5. Assemble quesadillas by placing shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla, followed by the chicken mixture. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and melted, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Vanilla Glazed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory Bourbon Vanilla Glazed Chicken Breast recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. The rich flavors of bourbon, vanilla, and brown sugar create a mouthwatering glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Bourbon whiskey (or substitute with vanilla extract)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Bourbon whiskey, vanilla extract, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy bourbon chicken recipes that pack a punch! From classic dishes like Bourbon Chicken with Garlic and Ginger, to sweet and savory options like Honey Bourbon Glazed Chicken Skewers, and bold flavors like Spicy Bourbon Chicken Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for slow-cooked comfort food or a quick weeknight dinner, these bourbon-infused recipes will satisfy your cravings. So why wait? Fire up your kitchen and get cooking with these mouth-watering spicy bourbon chicken recipes!
