Creating Sticky Bourbon Chicken is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and add it to the skillet. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
6. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the reserved marinade to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
7. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Add Heat (Optional): If you like a little spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes and stir to combine.
9. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
10. Serve: Transfer the sticky bourbon chicken to a serving platter.

With these straightforward instructions, you’ll create a dish that dazzles both in flavor and presentation.