This brown sugar bourbon chicken breast is sweet, smoky, and packed with flavor. The sauce gets thick and sticky and coats the chicken just right—it’s the kind of meal that smells amazing while it’s cooking and tastes even better. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or baking it, this dish is simple and totally delicious.
Why I Love This Recipe
The first time I made this, it was because I had a little bourbon left in the bottle and didn’t want to waste it—so I tossed it into a quick sauce. The result? A golden, juicy chicken breast with that sweet-glazed BBQ feel. It’s become one of my favorite “impress everyone with zero stress” meals.
Why you’ll love it too:
- 🥃 A rich, sweet sauce with a little bourbon kick
- 🍗 Chicken stays juicy and soaks up all the flavor
- ⏱️ Ready in about 30 minutes
- 🍽️ Works great for weeknights or weekend BBQ vibes
- 🧊 Sauce doubles as a glaze or marinade
⏰ Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp butter
How to Make Brown Sugar Bourbon Chicken Breast
1. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry, then season with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Glaze
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir and simmer for 5–6 minutes.
4. Finish the Sauce
Stir in butter and let the glaze thicken for another minute.
5. Add Chicken Back
Return the chicken to the pan. Spoon the glaze over the top and simmer for 2 more minutes.
6. Slice and Serve
Slice the chicken and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
What to Serve With It
This chicken loves a good sidekick. Here are a few great pairings:
- 🥔 Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
- 🥗 Simple salad with vinaigrette
- 🍚 Steamed rice or wild rice
- 🥦 Roasted broccoli or green beans
- 🍞 Warm crusty bread for scooping sauce
FAQ
Do I have to use bourbon?
You can sub with apple juice or broth for a non-alcoholic version—it won’t taste quite the same, but it’s still tasty!
Can I bake this instead?
Yes! Sear the chicken first, pour the glaze over, then bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prep the sauce ahead and reheat gently. Chicken is best fresh, but leftovers work great.
Is this super sweet?
It’s sweet, savory, and just a little tangy. The mustard and vinegar balance out the brown sugar.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yep! Just cook a few minutes longer depending on thickness.
Enjoy!
This Brown Sugar Bourbon Chicken Breast is sweet, sticky, and full of bold flavor with just the right hint of smokiness. It’s simple, satisfying, and a fun twist on your usual chicken dinner. 🥃🍗✨