Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken

Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken is a plate of juicy and tender chicken breasts diced and fried up and then tossed in a sweet, bourbon, and brown sugar glaze that makes the entire plate of chicken–Amazing! Served over a heaping bowl of rice for a complete and delicious meal.

I love a great bowl of crispy, diced chicken with a simple sauce that is really easy to make in the air fryer. My kids loved this, and although it has Bourbon in the sauce, most of the alcohol burns off as you cook it. If you are worried about the alcohol and serving it to minors, you can substitute the bourbon for apple juice.

Some other great and easy air fryer chicken recipes are AIR FRYER CRISPY CHICKEN THIGHS, AIR FRYER LOADED BBQ CHICKEN NACHOS, or AIR FRYER CHICKEN CORDON BLEU.

The Best Air-Fried Bourbon Chicken

If you could not guess, Bourbon chicken is named after the street in New Orleans and named after Bourbon Street.

This chicken dish is served during Mardi Gras on the streets lining the parade. It has a great sweet but spicy taste to it.

While any Bourbon will work for this recipe, the best one to use for a traditional Mardi Gras Bourbon dish is Bulleit, but any bourbon will work in this recipe.

If you want an alternative to alcohol, substitute the bourbon out for apple juice. That way, the dish is family-friendly and, of course, kid-friendly.

Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken

An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that has exploded in popularity recently – for good reason: it allows you to make delicious and healthy meals with minimal effort! One of the most popular air fryer dishes around – bourbon chicken – is a delicious way to enjoy a meal while minimizing your fat and calorie intake. To get that perfect flavor, there are certain ingredients needed for air fryer bourbon chicken.

Below, we’ll discuss these ingredients and give you tips on how to adapt the bourbon chicken recipe depending on your tastes. So let’s get started and find out just what makes air fryer bourbon chicken so fantastic…

What You Will Need To Make Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken,

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
• Olive Oil
• Bourbon
• Soy Sauce
• Brown Sugar
• Minced Garlic
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Scallions

How To Cook Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken

Are you looking for a healthier version of your favorite take-out dish? Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy with a crunchy crust. If you’ve wanted to try air frying but don’t want to invest in yet another bulky kitchen appliance, this recipe will prove that an air fryer can make all the difference when it comes to creating delicious dishes that are quick, easy, and healthier than ever before. So break out the air fryer and let’s get cooking!

Start by cutting the chicken into 1 to 2-inch pieces. Then toss them with the cornstarch.

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Then set the chicken into the air fryer basket and air fry for 5 minutes at 370 degrees F, air fryer setting. Then toss the chicken and air fry for another 5-7 minutes.

Note: If you have an air fryer basket, shake the basket. If you have an air fryer oven, flip the chicken with a pair of tongs.

Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce to add the olive oil, bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic into a saucepan. Over low-medium heat until the sauce starts to simmer.

Note: Since you are heating up alcohol, be careful and watch the saucepan.

Toss the chicken with the sauce. Serve over rice, plate, serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips For Making The Best Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken:

• You can either use chicken breasts or diced chicken thighs.
• If you want an alcohol alternative, this dish can also be made with whisky or brandy.
• Most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, but you can easily switch the Bourbon out for apple juice or apple cider.
• Mix some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika into the sauce if you want to add spice.
• Be careful to shake the basket several times during the cooking process.
• If you want a thicker sauce add a tablespoon of cornstarch and water for a cornstarch slurry.

Can I Cook Bourbon Chicken Ahead Of Time?

This is a great meal to make ahead of time. I am always looking for meals that can be made ahead of time, and then I can reheat when I get home from work.

Just make the chicken and place covered in an airtight container.

For the best flavor, I would air fry the chicken up in advance and make a fresh sauce. Then toss the chicken into the sauce. For a great dish.

Can You Freeze Air Fried Bourbon Chicken?

Yes, this is a great freezer meal.

Make this meal ahead of time, and then let the bourbon chicken cool to room temperature. Then place the bourbon chicken into a freezer-safe container. This freezer meal will last for about 4-6 weeks.

To reheat the frozen bourbon chicken, place the frozen chicken into the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the microwave, saucepan, or air fryer.

NON-ALCOHOL SUBSTITUTIONS FOR BOURBON

Since most of the alcohol burns off, you can either make it with the alcohol or change the bourbon for apple cider or apple juice.

WHAT TO SERVE THIS WITH

I usually serve this dish over a piping dish of white rice. Here are some great options,

• EASY INSTANT POT, HOW TO MAKE KNORR’S RICE SIDES IN THE INSTANT POT
• INSTANT POT, HOW TO MAKE BOXED RICE PILAF IN THE INSTANT POT
• INSTANT POT, COCONUT JASMINE RICE

HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE-

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

INSTANT VORTEX AIR FRYER 4 IN 1, BEST FRIES EVER, ROAST, BAKE, REHEAT, 6 QT, 1700W

Pro Tips For The Best Bourbon Chicken Cooked In Air Fryer

• Marinate for Flavor: The marinade for bourbon chicken is key to the flavor. It’s best to allow your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it marinate for several hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
• Choose the Right Cut: While chicken breasts can be used, chicken thighs are typically preferred for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, and they hold up well to the high heat of the air fryer.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Make sure to cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
• Check the Internal Temperature: The safest way to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked is to check its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Let the Chicken Rest: Before serving, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it even more juicy and flavorful.
• Add Garnish: Sprinkle some sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top of your chicken before serving for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
• Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the recipe to your personal preferences. If you like your chicken more or less sweet, spicy, or salty, adjust the quantities of ingredients in the sauce to match your taste.
• Make it Healthier: For a healthier version, you can cut down on the brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener. You can also add a side of steamed veggies to balance the meal.

Remember, the key to the best bourbon chicken is to make sure it’s cooked just right—not too dry and not undercooked. The air fryer makes this easy by providing even, high heat, but make sure to check the chicken to ensure it’s done to your liking.

FAQ’s

What type of chicken should I use for Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken?

Typically, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are used for Bourbon Chicken. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts are leaner.

Do I have to use bourbon in the recipe?

Despite its name, you can make Bourbon Chicken without bourbon. The alcohol in the bourbon does add depth to the flavor, but it can be substituted with apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb. However, don’t marinate for longer than 24 hours, or the texture of the chicken may become mushy.

How can I make my Bourbon Chicken more or less spicy?

Adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes or a hot sauce like Sriracha to your marinade.

What should I serve with Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken?

Bourbon Chicken pairs well with many side dishes. It’s traditionally served with white rice or fried rice. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or bok choy, also make excellent sides.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure the chicken is cooled completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I reheat leftover Bourbon Chicken?

Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it from drying out.