Keto Bourbon Chicken (Low Carb, One-Pot, Sugar-Free) Recipe

Introduction

This Keto “Food Court” Bourbon Chicken is a delicious one-pot dish that’s both low carb and bursting with flavor. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory bourbon sauce, then cooked to a crispy, caramelized finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken tenders if preferred)
• 2 Tbsp sweetener (such as allulose)
• 2 Tbsp sugar-free ketchup
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 shot bourbon (optional)
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1 Tbsp avocado oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the marinade by mixing the sweetener, sugar-free ketchup, soy sauce, water, bourbon (if using), ground ginger, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt in a bowl.
2. Step 2: Slice the chicken thighs into 1/2-inch cubes and stir them into the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 5 hours for more flavor.
3. Step 3: Heat the avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken along with all the marinade, spreading it into an even layer.
4. Step 4: Let the chicken simmer undisturbed until most of the liquid has evaporated. Then toss the chicken occasionally, allowing it to brown and get crispy edges. This should take about 7–10 minutes depending on your heat level.
5. Step 5: When the sauce has fully coated the chicken and there is no liquid left, remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy plain or with low-carb rice as desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder bourbon flavor, reduce or omit the bourbon entirely without losing much of the sauce’s complexity.
• Use chicken tenders if you prefer white meat, but note the flavor will be slightly different from the original dark meat thighs.
• Marinate for longer if time allows to deepen the flavor—overnight works well.
• Feel free to add chopped green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish for added texture and freshness.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the soy sauce for something else?

Yes, tamari or coconut aminos work well as gluten-free alternatives and maintain the savory depth of the dish.

Is the bourbon necessary for flavor?

The bourbon adds a nice depth and subtle sweetness but is optional. You can simply omit it without compromising the overall taste too much.

Keto Bourbon Chicken (Low Carb, One-Pot, Sugar-Free) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 128 reviews

A delicious and easy keto-friendly Bourbon chicken recipe featuring boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of sugar-free ketchup, soy sauce, bourbon, and spices, then cooked in a single skillet for a perfect low-carb, one-pot meal.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (including marinating time minimum 15 minutes)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 lb Boneless, skinless Chicken Thighs (or chicken tenders for lighter meat)

Marinade & Sauce

• 2 Tbsp Sweetener (allulose recommended)
• 2 Tbsp Sugar-free Ketchup
• 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1/4 cup Water
• 1 shot Bourbon (optional)
• 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Sea Salt

Cooking

• 1 Tbsp Avocado Oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the sweetener, sugar-free ketchup, soy sauce, water, bourbon (if using), ground ginger, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly to create the flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Slice the chicken thighs into 1/2-inch cubes. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. For best flavor, marinate for at least 15 minutes, but up to 5 hours is preferable.
3. Heat the Skillet: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering hot but not smoking.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade into the hot skillet. Spread the chicken in an even layer to ensure even cooking. Let it simmer without stirring initially so the liquid begins to reduce.
5. Simmer and Brown: Once most of the liquid has evaporated, start tossing the chicken pieces in the pan to ensure even browning on all sides. Continue cooking for about 7-10 minutes total depending on heat, until the edges of the chicken are crispy and the sauce has thickened and completely coated the chicken.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve immediately. It pairs well with low-carb rice alternatives or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying keto meal.

Notes

• Use chicken thighs for best flavor and juiciness; chicken tenders can be substituted but will yield a different texture.
• Marinating longer enhances flavor, but at least 15 minutes is sufficient in a pinch.
• Allulose is recommended as the sweetener to keep the recipe keto-friendly and avoid raising blood sugar.
• Bourbon is optional; omit if avoiding alcohol – the sauce will still be flavorful.
• Watch the heat to prevent burning the sauce as it reduces in the skillet.
• Serve with cauliflower rice or other low-carb sides to keep the dish keto-compliant.

Keywords: keto bourbon chicken, low carb chicken recipe, sugar-free chicken, one-pot keto meal, quick keto dinner