Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is a flavorful and easy dish that brings the taste of your favorite food court directly to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. You’ll enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor profile that everyone in the family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The preparation and cooking time is just 35 minutes, making it suitable for any day of the week.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates a deliciously unique flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles, making it adaptable to your personal taste.
• Family Favorite: This dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike with its delightful taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools help streamline the cooking process and ensure you achieve great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan or skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken evenly while providing enough space for simmering the sauce.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and seasonings without cluttering your workspace.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 LB chicken thighs, skinless

For the Sauce

• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/3 Cup soy sauce
• 1/3 Cup apple juice or cranberry juice (as a substitute for bourbon)
• 1/2 Cup water
• 1 Tbsp 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

Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Remove any excess fat or skin to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Mixture

In a small bowl, combine:
1. Ground ginger
2. Black pepper
3. Soy sauce
4. Apple juice or cranberry juice
5. Water
6. Garlic powder
7. Rice vinegar
8. Brown sugar

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

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

Step 4: Add Sauce Mixture

Pour the sauce mixture over the browned chicken:
1. Stir well to coat all pieces.
2. Allow it to come to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Add in the cornstarch mixture:
1. Stir briskly until the sauce thickens quickly.

Step 6: Serve

Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Serving your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe can elevate the dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some creative suggestions for serving this delicious dish.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the bourbon chicken over fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making every bite delightful.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for added nutrition and crunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the bourbon chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes a fun and interactive way to enjoy the dish.

As a Sandwich

• Use crusty rolls or baguettes to create a unique sandwich. Add some fresh cilantro and pickled vegetables for an extra kick.

With Noodles

• Serve over cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a hearty meal that combines flavors beautifully.

As Meal Prep Bowls

• Divide portions into meal prep containers with rice and vegetables for easy lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Perfecting your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe can make it even more enjoyable. Consider these helpful tips for outstanding results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality soy sauce enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference; less sugar if you prefer less sweetness.
• Cook Slowly: Allow the chicken to simmer gently to ensure it becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors.
• Thicken Wisely: Add cornstarch mixture gradually until you reach your desired sauce thickness.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an appealing presentation.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Complementing your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice
   A flavorful mix of rice, eggs, peas, and carrots that pairs perfectly with bourbon chicken.

2. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables make a great appetizer alongside the main dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits to your plate.

4. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a delightful crunch while balancing out the meal’s richness.

5. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar helps cut through the sweetness of the chicken.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts well with the savory flavors of bourbon chicken.

7. Quinoa Pilaf
   A nutty quinoa pilaf offers additional protein and complex flavors that complement the dish well.

8. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy mashed sweet potatoes add sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory notes of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce can result in bland flavors. Always let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

• Using low-quality soy sauce: Poor quality soy sauce can affect the overall taste of your dish. Opt for a good brand to ensure rich flavor.

• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the pan can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Monitor closely and adjust times as needed.

• Not tasting before serving: Failing to taste your dish before serving may mean missing out on seasoning adjustments. Always taste and tweak as necessary.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power, heating in increments of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute brown sugar with honey or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative without sacrificing sweetness.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey thighs work well and provide a similar texture and flavor profile.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serving over rice is typical, but it also pairs nicely with steamed vegetables or quinoa for a nutritious meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute for regular soy sauce.

How do I customize the flavor profile?

Feel free to add more spices like red pepper flakes or swap out some soy sauce for other sauces like hoisin or teriyaki.

Final Thoughts

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of food court favorites right into your kitchen. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, whether you want more spice or sweetness. Try it today and enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!