Your Diet Expert

Warm Introduction

If you’ve ever strolled through a mall food court, chances are you’ve seen (or smelled!) that irresistible bourbon chicken stand. Sweet, savory, sticky, and utterly addictive – it’s one of those comfort foods people can’t get enough of. But here’s the thing: traditional bourbon chicken is usually loaded with sugar and served over rice, which makes it a no-go for anyone following keto.

That’s why I’m so excited to share this Keto Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli Recipe. It has all the rich, caramelized flavors of the takeout version but without the sugar crash. The tender chicken pairs perfectly with crisp broccoli, making this a complete low-carb dinner that feels indulgent but stays perfectly keto.

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What Makes This Recipe Stand Out

• Sugar-free glaze – Instead of brown sugar, we use a keto-friendly sweetener to keep it deliciously sticky without the carbs.
• Balanced meal in one pan – Protein-packed chicken and fiber-rich broccoli mean dinner is ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Better than takeout – You control the ingredients, flavors, and spice level, while keeping it healthy.
• Comfort food made keto-friendly – Sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with none of the guilt.

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Personal Blogger Note

When I first tested this recipe, I was skeptical if the “bourbon chicken magic” could really happen without sugar. But let me tell you, the moment I reduced that sauce down and saw it coat the chicken in a glossy glaze, I couldn’t stop sneaking bites straight from the pan. Now it’s one of my favorite weeknight dinners.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Skillet or Wok – A wide pan is essential for evenly browning the chicken and letting the sauce reduce properly. I find a wok helps keep the broccoli crisp-tender.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – To cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Small cubes cook quickly and soak up the sauce better.
• Mixing Bowl – For whisking the sauce ingredients together before adding them to the pan. It keeps things mess-free.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet. I like how a spatula helps scrape up all the tasty browned bits.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accuracy matters in keto cooking, especially with sweeteners and seasonings.

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Ingredients (with Substitutions)

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful. Swap: chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – Adds crunch and balances the richness. Swap: green beans or zucchini if you want variety.
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil – Healthy fats for sautéing.
• ¼ cup soy sauce or coconut aminos – The salty umami base of the sauce. Use coconut aminos for gluten-free.
• ¼ cup bourbon or whiskey – Adds depth of flavor. Don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off. Skip if avoiding alcohol – add extra broth instead.
• ⅓ cup chicken broth – Keeps the sauce silky.
• 3 tbsp keto-friendly brown sweetener – Mimics the caramel notes of sugar without spiking blood sugar.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness with tang.
• 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp onion powder – Quick flavor boosters.
• ½ tsp ground ginger – Adds warmth and pairs perfectly with soy.
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper (optional) – For a little kick.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish) – Adds a nice crunch at the end.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Prep the chicken – Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear better.
2. Cook the chicken – Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the broccoli – In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Toss in the broccoli and sauté for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the sauce – In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, bourbon, chicken broth, sweetener, vinegar, garlic, onion, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer and reduce – Pour the sauce into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 4–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine everything – Add the chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat. Let it simmer in the sauce for another 3 minutes. Add broccoli back just before serving.
7. Finish & serve – Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.

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Health & Nutrition Insights

• Protein-packed – Chicken provides steady, lean protein to keep you satisfied.
• Low-carb & sugar-free – Perfect for keto and diabetic-friendly eating.
• Balanced nutrients – Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Healthy fats – Olive oil keeps this dish filling and heart-friendly.

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Serving + Pairing Ideas

• Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete keto dinner.
• Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or sesame cabbage slaw.
• Great with sparkling water flavored with lemon or lime.
• Perfect for meal-prep lunches – reheats beautifully.

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Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze portions (without broccoli) for up to 2 months. Add fresh broccoli when reheating for best texture.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best flavor.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this recipe without bourbon?
Yes, simply replace bourbon with extra chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.

2. Is bourbon chicken keto-friendly?
The classic version isn’t, but this Keto Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli recipe uses sugar-free ingredients to make it low-carb.

3. Can I meal-prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely – the sauce flavors deepen overnight. Just store and reheat when needed.

4. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini all work well.

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Nutrition Breakdown (per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 20g
• Total Carbs: 8g
• Net Carbs: 5g

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired, Keto
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 380

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Closing Note

This Keto Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli recipe proves you don’t have to give up your favorite comfort foods when eating low-carb. It’s quick, flavorful, and family-approved. Give it a try this week and enjoy a restaurant-style dinner right at home – without the carbs!