Are you craving that mouthwatering taste of food court Bourbon chicken? You're in the right place! This copycat recipe brings that delicious flavor right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can create this savory dish that combines sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe and transform your weeknight dinners into something special. Get your taste buds ready!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and spices creates a sweet and savory sauce that’s irresistible.
- Customizable Heat: Add red pepper flakes to spice things up or leave them out for a milder dish, catering to your taste preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: This bourbon chicken keeps well, making it ideal for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
To make this dish, you need fresh ingredients. I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich taste. Dicing the chicken helps it cook faster and soak up the sauce. Cornstarch is key for that crunchy bite.
Next, you will need vegetable oil for frying. I prefer brown sugar for sweetness and richness. Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. Apple cider vinegar brings a nice tang.
Minced garlic and ginger will give your dish a fresh, aromatic flavor. Five-spice powder adds warmth and complexity. If you want a bit of heat, use red pepper flakes. Finally, green onions add a bright touch for garnish.
This list of ingredients is simple, yet it creates a dish that feels special. Each element plays a role in the final flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- First, take 1 pound of diced chicken thighs.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
- Make sure each piece is coated well. This helps create a crispy outside.
- Next, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Look for a golden brown color. Ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
- Add 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
- Then, mix in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger.
- Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of five-spice powder and red pepper flakes if you like heat.
- Stir everything well to combine.
- Allow the sauce to simmer. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Watch for the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
- After the sauce thickens, return the chicken to the skillet.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce until well coated.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb the sauce flavor.
- Finally, remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
To get that crispy bite, cornstarch is key. It coats the chicken and helps form a nice crust. When you add the chicken to the hot skillet, make sure the oil is hot. This helps brown the chicken quickly. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, turning only once. This way, you get a golden color without steaming the meat.
Enhancing Flavors
Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best taste. You can also play with spice levels. If you want it spicy, add more red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, leave them out. Taste as you go, and adjust to your liking.
Presentation Tips
Serving is just as important as cooking. I love putting the bourbon chicken over rice or broccoli. This adds color and nutrition. You can also drizzle extra sauce on top for a nice touch. For garnish, sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds. They add flavor and look great on the plate.
Pro Tips
- Coat for Crispiness: Tossing the chicken in cornstarch before cooking ensures a crispy exterior that enhances the texture of the dish.
- Sauce Thickness: Allowing the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened helps to intensify the flavors and gives the dish a more appealing glaze.
- Heat Control: Adjust the heat as necessary when cooking the chicken to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Garnish with Flavor: Adding green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the bourbon sauce.
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in this dish. Here are two tasty options:
- Using chicken breast: For a leaner choice, use boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking steps. The flavor will still shine through.
- Substituting with tofu or tempeh: If you want a plant-based option, try diced tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove extra moisture. Cook it like the chicken, ensuring it gets crispy on the outside.
Flavor Variants
Get creative with flavor! You can easily add fun twists to your bourbon chicken:
- Adding pineapple for sweetness: Pineapple chunks give a nice sweet contrast. Toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. They will caramelize and add a bright taste.
- Incorporating vegetables: Feel free to mix in veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Stir them in with the chicken or add them to the sauce. This boosts nutrition and adds color.
Cooking Methods
You have options when it comes to cooking this dish. Here are two methods to try:
- Instant Pot version: For a quick fix, use your Instant Pot. Sauté the chicken in it first. Then, add the sauce ingredients and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick and flavorful!
- Slow cooker adaptation: If you prefer a hands-off approach, use a slow cooker. Sear the chicken first, then place it in the cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. The chicken will be tender and soak up all the flavors.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store any leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Make sure to cool the chicken first before sealing it. It will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any strange smells or colors before eating. If it looks or smells off, throw it away.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked bourbon chicken for later use. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it's hot. Ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F before serving. This way, you keep all the flavors intact!
FAQs
What is Bourbon Chicken?
Bourbon chicken is a popular dish found in food courts. It has roots in Chinese cuisine, but it is a more Americanized version. The dish gets its name from Bourbon Street in New Orleans. It features tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce. This sauce includes brown sugar and soy sauce, giving it a rich flavor. The addition of ginger and garlic adds depth. You can also taste a hint of warmth from five-spice powder and red pepper flakes.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make bourbon chicken gluten-free. To do this, use gluten-free soy sauce. There are many brands that offer this option. Look for tamari or coconut aminos as good substitutes. These sauces provide the same flavor without gluten. Just make sure to check the labels before buying.
How do I make Bourbon Chicken spicier?
You can easily spice up your bourbon chicken. Start by adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you want more heat, consider using a hot sauce. Sriracha or chili garlic sauce works well. You can also add sliced fresh peppers for an extra kick. This will give your dish a nice boost in flavor. Adjust the spice levels to fit your taste.
In this blog post, I covered how to make Bourbon Chicken. We discussed the key ingredients, cooking steps, and some handy tips for a great outcome. You learned about different variations and how to store leftovers.
Keep this recipe in mind for a simple, tasty meal. You can customize it to suit your taste. Enjoy the cooking process and share your results with others!
