Why Make This Recipe
If you love the sweet and savory flavors of Bourbon Chicken from food courts, this copycat recipe is a great way to enjoy it at home. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and a delicious way to impress your family or friends. Plus, you can control the ingredients and serve it just the way you like it!
How to Make Food Court Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 LB chicken thighs, skinless
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (about 4 turns on the pepper mill)
- 1/3 Cup soy sauce
- 1/3 Cup Bourbon (or any brown whiskey you have; dark rum can be used, too)
- 1/2 Cup water
- 1 Tbsp rice vinegar (or plain white vinegar)
- 1/2 Cup brown sugar, tightly packed
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 3 Tbsp cold water
Directions:
- Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces, and trim off any excess fat or skin.
- In a small bowl, mix the ginger, black pepper, soy sauce, whiskey, water, garlic powder, vinegar, and brown sugar. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large sauté pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until the juices cook off and the chicken starts to brown (about 8-10 minutes). Make sure to stir the chicken every 1-2 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even browning.
- Pour in the bourbon mixture and stir well. Let the liquid come to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This step is important, as you want the alcohol to cook off.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture. The sauce will thicken quickly.
- Serve the chicken over rice for a complete meal.
How to Serve Food Court Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon Chicken is best served hot over a bed of fluffy rice. You can also add steamed vegetables on the side for extra color and nutrition. It makes for a wonderful dinner that’s sure to satisfy!
How to Store Food Court Bourbon Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Food Court Bourbon Chicken
- Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on how sweet you like your sauce.
- If you want an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bourbon mixture.
Variation
You can swap out the bourbon for apple juice or cranberry juice if you prefer not to use alcohol. Just remember to reduce the amount of brown sugar if you use juice, as it is already sweet.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
2. Can I freeze bourbon chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it. Let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
3. What can I serve with bourbon chicken?
Bourbon chicken pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even noodles. You can also serve it with a light salad for a refreshing side.
Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces, and trim off any excess fat or skin.
- In a small bowl, mix the ginger, black pepper, soy sauce, whiskey, water, garlic powder, vinegar, and brown sugar. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large sauté pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until the juices cook off and the chicken starts to brown, about 8-10 minutes. Stir every 1-2 minutes to prevent burning.
- Pour in the bourbon mixture and stir well. Let the liquid come to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture. The sauce will thicken quickly.
- Serve the chicken over rice for a complete meal.