Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

A delicious twist on a classic dish, the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe brings the savory flavors of your favorite food court to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a mouthwatering experience with tender chicken and a sweet, tangy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it suitable for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, this dish comes together in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates an irresistible glaze that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken thighs or substitute with turkey for a slightly different flavor while keeping the essence of the dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into the cooking process, gather the essential tools you’ll need to create this flavorful dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for searing the chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to simmer beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining marinades and sauces before adding them to your dish.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of chicken thighs for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Marinade

• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (about 4 turns on the pepper mill)
• 1/3 Cup soy sauce

For the Sauce

• 1/3 Cup apple juice or cranberry juice (as alcohol substitute)
• 1/2 Cup water
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar (or plain white vinegar)
• 1/2 Cup brown sugar, tightly packed

For Thickening

• 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, removing any excess fat or skin.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground ginger, black pepper, soy sauce, apple juice, water, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until they’ve browned nicely and most juices have evaporated (about 8-10 minutes). Remember to stir every couple of minutes to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Add Marinade

1. Pour in the prepared marinade over the browned chicken. Stir well.
2. Bring liquid to a boil before reducing heat to medium. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Stir in your cornstarch mixture briskly into the skillet. The sauce will thicken quickly as it cooks.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve your delicious bourbon chicken over fluffy rice for a complete meal! Enjoy!

Now you have an easy-to-follow guide to making your very own Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

This delicious Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is perfect for a satisfying meal. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination that soaks up the flavorful sauce.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the dish with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken mixture in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds freshness and makes for a fun finger food.

With Noodles

• Toss the chicken with cooked noodles for a hearty meal. You can use chow mein or rice noodles, making it a filling option.

As a Salad Topper

• Use the bourbon chicken as a savory topping over mixed greens. Drizzle with additional soy sauce or your favorite dressing for extra flavor.

In Tacos

• Create fusion tacos by placing the bourbon chicken in soft tortillas, topping with cabbage slaw and drizzled sauce for an exciting twist.

How to Perfect Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

To make your Food Court Bourbon Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate the flavors of your dish significantly.
• Marinate the chicken – Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes will enhance its flavor.
• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences; less sugar will yield a more savory dish.
• Monitor cooking time – Ensure that you do not overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy when done.
• Experiment with spices – Adding crushed red pepper flakes can give your dish an extra kick if you like some heat.
• Let it rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Complementing your Food Court Bourbon Chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice
   A classic choice that combines eggs, peas, and carrots; it pairs perfectly with bourbon chicken’s rich flavors.
2. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh and crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing can cleanse the palate while adding a light touch.
4. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp provide delightful crunch and complement Asian-inspired meals well.
5. Quinoa Salad
   A nutritious quinoa salad mixed with herbs and vegetables offers protein and fiber alongside your main dish.
6. Coleslaw
   Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balance against the savory chicken while being easy to prepare in advance.
7. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli is both healthy and easy to make, providing vibrant color on your plate.
8. Sweet Potato Fries
   Sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with savory bourbon chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls when making your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe for a perfect dish every time.

• Not trimming chicken properly: Failing to remove excess fat or skin can lead to a greasy dish. Always cut thighs into 1-inch pieces and trim as needed.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking the chicken too quickly can prevent it from browning and developing flavor. Allow adequate time for sautéing to achieve that perfect golden color.
• Ignoring the sauce simmer time: Skipping the simmering step can result in a watery sauce. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and thicken.
• Using incorrect substitutes: Not using appropriate alternatives for alcohol can alter the taste significantly. Opt for juices like apple or cranberry juice instead of bourbon, adjusting sugar accordingly.
• Skipping cornstarch thickening: Omitting this step leaves you with a thin sauce. Mix cornstarch with cold water and add it at the end for that signature thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

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). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short increments, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is the best chicken cut for this recipe?

Thighs are preferred due to their flavor and tenderness. They stay juicy during cooking, making them ideal for this dish.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?

Yes! You can substitute honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity as they are sweeter than brown sugar.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not intended to be spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer some heat.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce alternatives such as tamari while preparing your dish.

Final Thoughts

This Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of food court favorites right at home. It’s versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you choose different sauces or add veggies, this dish promises satisfaction on any dinner table!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, a dish that brings the savory essence of your favorite food court meal right to your kitchen. This quick and simple recipe features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it can be prepared in just 35 minutes and is easily customizable to suit your taste. Serve it over fluffy rice, pair it with vibrant stir-fried vegetables, or enjoy it in lettuce wraps for a lighter option. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb chicken thighs, skinless
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup apple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 3 Tbsp cold water
• 1/2 cup water

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground ginger, garlic powder, black pepper, soy sauce, apple 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 (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in cornstarch mixed with cold water until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve over rice or with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 140mg