Food court bourbon chicken is a beloved dish that has won the hearts of many with its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This dish, often found sizzling at food courts across the United States, is inspired by the flavors of Asian cuisine, showcasing tender chicken glazed in a rich bourbon sauce.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup bourbon
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
1-2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated and let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of bourbon, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Pour the prepared bourbon sauce over the cooked chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring to combine. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the bourbon chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
