Bourbon chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a quick stir-fry. This recipe makes it easy for beginners to whip up a satisfying meal that’s packed with protein from chicken and served over rice. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be impressing your family or friends in no time. Let’s dive into making this delicious bourbon chicken that brings the essence of Bourbon Street right to your kitchen!
What is Bourbon Chicken?
Bourbon chicken is a popular dish that originated in the United States, often associated with Chinese and Cajun culinary influences. It gets its name from Bourbon Street in New Orleans, highlighting its connections to both Southern and Creole flavors. The dish features tender chicken coated in a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce, making it a favorite among many. The combination of ingredients creates a wonderful depth of flavor, and it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients for Bourbon Chicken
To create this mouthwatering bourbon chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/4 cup minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup bourbon (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic option)
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
These ingredients work together to create that signature sweet and savory profile that bourbon chicken is known for.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bourbon Chicken
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. Follow these easy steps to make your bourbon chicken:
Step 1
Toss the chicken pieces in a medium bowl with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until they are well coated. This will help the chicken achieve a nice texture when cooked.
Step 2
In a 12-inch skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken. Cook and stir the chicken until it’s browned all over. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate using a slotted spoon to keep the oil in the skillet.
Step 3
Next, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook and stir for 1 to 3 minutes until these ingredients have softened and become fragrant.
Step 4
In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, soy sauce, chicken broth, bourbon (or apple juice), brown sugar, cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper. Stir this mixture until everything is well combined.
Step 5
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Stir the ingredients to combine and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
Step 6
Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Cook and stir everything together until the chicken is nicely coated in the sauce and heated through. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step 7
Serve your bourbon chicken over 2 cups of cooked rice and top it off with sliced green onions. This adds a fresh crunch and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bourbon Chicken
- Substituting Ingredients: If bourbon isn’t your thing, feel free to use apple juice as a non-alcoholic alternative. It works beautifully and maintains the sweetness of the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporating stir-fried vegetables can boost the nutrition of your meal. Consider adding broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for an extra crunch and color.
- Adjust Spice Level: The crushed red pepper can be increased or decreased depending on your spice preference. You can also omit it if you prefer a milder dish.
Serving Suggestions for Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon chicken is best served hot over a bed of fluffy rice. You can pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For an added touch, consider serving it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and additional green onions.
Variations of Bourbon Chicken
If you want to experiment with variations of bourbon chicken, here are a few ideas:
- Slow Cooker Bourbon Chicken: Combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it simmer for several hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in tender chicken.
- Bourbon Chicken Skewers: Thread marinated pieces of chicken and vegetables onto skewers and grill them for a fun barbecue twist on the classic dish.
- Spicy Bourbon Chicken: For heat lovers, add more crushed red pepper or introduce chopped chili peppers to the mix for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information for Bourbon Chicken
This recipe serves four and provides the following nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 542
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 46g
- Sodium: 1110mg
- Cholesterol: 208mg
The chicken provides a healthy protein source, while the rice serves as a satisfying base.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Bourbon Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. You can add a dash of water or chicken broth to help steam and re-moisten the chicken. Make sure it’s heated through before serving.
Historical Background of Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon chicken is often described as a fusion of Chinese-American cuisine and Cajun cooking, gaining popularity in food courts and casual dining restaurants. Its sweet sauce is reminiscent of teriyaki, while the dish’s name and bourbon flavor nod to its New Orleans roots. Over the years, bourbon chicken has become a beloved comfort food, celebrating the melting pot of cultures that make up American cuisine.
With an easy-to-follow recipe and plenty of tips to elevate your cooking game, this bourbon chicken is a great dish to try at home. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or looking to impress, this flavorful meal is sure to satisfy. Enjoy your culinary adventure as you make this delightful dish!