Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe brings the delightful flavors of a popular food court dish right into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love the sweet and savory sauce that clings to tender pieces of chicken, making it an instant hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates a rich sauce that elevates the humble chicken thighs into something special.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or noodles; you can easily customize it to fit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed hit among friends and family alike, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Budget-Friendly: Using chicken thighs and pantry staples keeps the cost down while still delivering big flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and make cooking enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan or skillet
• Small mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan or skillet: A spacious cooking surface allows for even browning of the chicken and prevents overcrowding.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and ingredients without making a mess.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for even cooking and easier preparation of chicken pieces.

Ingredients

To make this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 LB chicken thighs, skinless
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (I used 4 turns on the pepper mill)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 Cup soy sauce
• 1/3 Cup apple juice (or brown barley tea)
• 1/2 Cup water
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar (white apple vinegar or plain white vinegar would do if you don’t have rice vinegar)
• 1/2 Cup brown sugar, tightly packed
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 3 Tbsp cold water

How to Make Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and remove any excess fat or skin.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the ground ginger, black pepper, soy sauce, apple juice (or brown barley tea), water, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large sauté pan or skillet, heat the olive oil on medium-high heat.
2. Add the cut chicken to the pan.
3. Cook until the juices have cooked off and the chicken starts to brown (about 8-10 minutes). Stir every 1-2 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture over the browned chicken.
2. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly.
3. Allow the liquid to come to a boil before reducing heat to medium.
4. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes; this helps deepen flavors.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Slowly add in the cornstarch mixture while stirring briskly.
2. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens quickly.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious bourbon chicken over steamed rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Serving your homemade Food Court Bourbon Chicken can elevate any meal. This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions.

Over Rice

• Serve the bourbon chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a healthy crunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the chicken mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and low-carb option that’s perfect for appetizers or light meals.

On Noodles

• Serve the chicken on top of steamed noodles for a satisfying and hearty dish that combines flavors beautifully.

With Garlic Bread

• Enjoy with a side of garlic bread to dip in the savory sauce, adding a delightful twist to your meal.

How to Perfect Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Achieving the best version of this recipe requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger to maximize flavor and aroma in your sauce.

• Marinate Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding all the brown sugar; you can always add more if you prefer it sweeter.

• Control Heat: Keep an eye on your heat while cooking; medium-high heat helps brown the chicken without burning it.

• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to dissolve cornstarch completely in cold water before adding it to ensure a smooth sauce consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Complementing your Food Court Bourbon Chicken with delicious sides can make your meal more enjoyable. Here are some great options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple and nutritious side that adds vibrant color and crunch.
2. Fried Rice: Classic fried rice pairs well with bourbon chicken, providing additional flavor and texture.
3. Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness that balances the savory notes of the chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing adds a cool contrast to warm dishes.
5. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables make for a crunchy and delightful appetizer alongside your main dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon enhances your meal while keeping it healthy.
7. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, complementing the richness of the chicken.
8. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort food vibes alongside bourbon chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls will enhance your cooking experience and the final dish.

• Bold preparation: Skipping the step of cutting chicken into uniform pieces can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your chicken is cut into 1-inch pieces for consistent results.
• Bold mismeasuring ingredients: Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the flavor balance. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.
• Bold neglecting simmering time: Rushing through the simmering stage may not allow flavors to develop fully. Take your time during this step for a richer taste.
• Bold forgetting to stir: Failing to stir the chicken while it cooks can cause it to burn. Stir every 1-2 minutes to achieve an even brown color.
• Bold using too much cornstarch: Adding too much cornstarch can make the sauce overly thick. Start with the recommended amount and adjust as necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe.

What is a substitute for bourbon in this recipe?

You can use apple juice or cranberry juice as a non-alcoholic alternative. Adjust brown sugar slightly if using juice.

How long does it take to make Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute skinless chicken breasts; however, thighs provide a juicier flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. The ginger adds warmth without heat. You can add chili flakes if you prefer spice.

Final Thoughts

This Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can easily be customized. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition. Try this recipe today for a quick and satisfying meal!