Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite food court meal right into your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With its sweet and savory sauce, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The preparation time is just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Sauce: A rich combination of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering blend.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in wraps for a creative twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers, everyone will love this dish!
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or sauté pan: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping the chicken and other ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for uniform pieces of chicken, leading to even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, you’ll need:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 LB chicken thighs, skinless
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1/3 Cup soy sauce
• 1/3 Cup apple juice (or cranberry juice)
• 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

1. Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces.
2. Remove any excess fat or skin.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned (about 8-10 minutes), stirring every 1-2 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Sauce Mixture

1. Pour the marinade mixture over the browned chicken.
2. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium.
3. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Stir in the cornstarch liquid and mix well.
2. Allow it to thicken before removing from heat.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Food Court Bourbon Chicken over rice or your preferred side dish! Enjoy this delicious copycat recipe that captures all the flavors of your favorite food court meal.

How to Serve Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Serving this delicious Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is easy and versatile. You can enjoy it in various ways that suit your taste and occasion.

Over Rice

• Serve the bourbon chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a classic combination that soaks up the flavorful sauce.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create a wrap with the chicken, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a tasty meal on the go.

On a Salad

• Place the bourbon chicken on a bed of mixed greens, adding vegetables like cucumbers and carrots. Top with sesame dressing for a refreshing twist.

With Noodles

• Pair the bourbon chicken with stir-fried noodles or lo mein for an Asian-inspired dish that’s filling and satisfying.

As Appetizers

• Serve small portions as appetizers at parties. Skewers or toothpicks make them easy to pick up and enjoy.

How to Perfect Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the flavor profile compared to dried versions.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar gradually to find your ideal balance.
• Cook Thoroughly: Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before serving. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer will deepen its flavors. Don’t skip this step!
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Mix cornstarch with cold water thoroughly to prevent lumps when adding it to the sauce.
• Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding other seasonings like red pepper flakes for heat or honey for extra sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Food Court Bourbon Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy side that adds color and nutrients, simply steam until tender.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful rice option that includes peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs for added texture.
3. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables make for a delightful appetizer alongside the chicken.
4. Sesame Green Beans: Sauté green beans in olive oil with sesame seeds for a quick and tasty side.
5. Sweet Corn: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of the chicken; serve it fresh or sautéed.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
7. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter offer a different texture and are great for soaking up sauce.
8. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon juice pairs well, providing a nutritious balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes. Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Incorrect Ingredient Substitutions: Using the wrong alternative for bourbon can affect flavor. Stick to juices like apple or cranberry for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for a tender texture by cooking just until browned and fully cooked through.

• Not Thinning Cornstarch Properly: Failing to dissolve cornstarch in cold water can cause lumps. Always mix it well before adding it to your sauce.

• Skipping Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process may result in a less flavorful sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for at least 15 minutes.

• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: A poor-quality soy sauce can alter the taste of your dish. Choose a good brand for authentic flavor.

• Neglecting Rice Preparation: Serving this dish without properly cooked rice can detract from your meal. Ensure your rice is fluffy and well-seasoned.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe?

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe mimics the popular dish found in food courts, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey thighs are a great substitute and will work well in this recipe, providing similar flavors and textures.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Absolutely! You can reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute, and opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on sodium content.

How do I customize my Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences as well!

How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink inside.

Final Thoughts

This Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or side dishes. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Give it a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the deliciousness of this Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, a quick and easy dish that brings the vibrant flavors of your favorite food court meal right to your dining table. This recipe features tender chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and apple juice. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even in wraps for a delightful twist. With customization options available to adjust sweetness or spice levels, this bourbon chicken will become a staple in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs skinless chicken thighs
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 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)
• 1/2 Cup water
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 Cup brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 3 Tbsp cold water

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix ground ginger, garlic powder, black pepper, soy sauce, apple juice (or cranberry juice), water, rice vinegar, and brown sugar to create the marinade.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned (8-10 minutes).
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken; bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken the sauce before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 920mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 110mg