Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is a delicious way to recreate the beloved dish found in many food court Chinese restaurants. This recipe captures the essence of that sweet, savory flavor while being simple enough for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With tender chicken and a mouthwatering sauce, it’s perfect for serving over rice or noodles, making it a versatile choice for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Versatile: Serve this dish over rice, noodles, or even in wraps for a delightful twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its sweet-savory profile appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having everything ready will make this recipe even easier to follow.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or sauté pan: A good skillet ensures even cooking and allows you to brown the chicken perfectly.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

For this delightful Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, gather the following 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 (about 4 turns on the pepper mill)
• 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 (or white 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, removing any excess fat or skin.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Mixture

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and juices have cooked off—approximately 8-10 minutes. Stir every minute or two to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce Mixture

• Pour in your prepared sauce mixture over the browned chicken. Stir well.
• Allow this mixture to come to a boil before reducing heat to medium. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

• Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and stir briskly. The sauce will thicken rapidly.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve your delicious Food Court Bourbon Chicken over rice or noodles for an amazing meal experience! Enjoy!

How to Serve Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Serving your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat recipe can enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice makes a perfect base, absorbing the rich sauce and providing a satisfying texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken. This adds a crunchy contrast and makes for a lighter meal.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with colorful stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a nutritious and vibrant plate.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve the bourbon chicken over lo mein or rice noodles for a delicious twist that combines flavors and textures beautifully.

As Part of a Bowl Meal

• Create a bowl with your favorite ingredients: quinoa or rice, bourbon chicken, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce for an all-in-one meal.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Add tangy pickled vegetables on the side to complement the sweetness of the bourbon chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Perfecting your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat recipe involves some simple tips to elevate its taste and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried spices.
• Marinate Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences; you can reduce it for a less sweet dish.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to dissolve cornstarch in cold water completely before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy this dish immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture; it tends to lose its appeal when reheated.

Best Side Dishes for Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Food Court Bourbon Chicken enhances both flavor and nutrition. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy choice that adds vibrant color and nutrients; steam until tender yet crisp.
2. Fried Rice: Incorporate vegetables and scrambled eggs into fried rice for additional flavor that complements the chicken well.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing provides crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
4. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic create an aromatic side that contrasts nicely with the sweet chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs adds protein and fiber while keeping your meal wholesome.
6. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that pairs well with savory dishes like bourbon chicken.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the dish’s flavor profile.
8. Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup serves as a comforting starter that complements Asian-inspired meals perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: It’s essential to use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe, as they remain moist and tender during cooking. Avoid using chicken breasts, which can dry out.
• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture before cooking enhances flavor. Make sure to allow enough time for this step if you want a richer taste.
• Not simmering long enough: Take your time when simmering the sauce after adding it to the chicken. This step allows flavors to meld and thickens the sauce properly.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: If you don’t have certain ingredients like bourbon or rice vinegar, make appropriate substitutions like apple juice or plain white vinegar without hesitation.
• Overcooking the sauce: The sauce can thicken too much if left on heat for too long. Monitor it closely after adding cornstarch and remove from heat once it reaches your desired consistency.
• Serving without sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables. Don’t forget to add a side dish for a complete meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers on medium power, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe?

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe mimics the sweet and savory flavor of bourbon chicken found in food courts but uses alternative ingredients free from alcohol and pork.

Can I make this recipe healthier?

Absolutely! You can use leaner cuts of turkey or beef and reduce sugar by substituting with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

What can I serve with my Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or crispy lettuce wraps for added crunch and freshness.

How do I store leftovers from this recipe?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference while following the same cooking instructions.

Final Thoughts

The Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is a deliciously versatile dish that captures flavors many love. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and easy enough to customize based on what you have on hand. Try adding vegetables or adjusting spices for your unique twist!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Experience the delightful flavors of Food Court Bourbon Chicken right in your kitchen with this easy and flavorful copycat recipe. This dish features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet-savory sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and apple juice—a perfect alternative to bourbon. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and can be served over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for an exciting twist. Enjoy a meal that’s not only delicious but also budget-friendly and appealing to both kids and adults!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 lb skinless chicken thighs
• 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, removing excess fat.
2. In a small bowl, combine ginger, black pepper, soy sauce, apple juice, water, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and brown sugar; set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the cornstarch mixture until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve over rice or noodles.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 95mg