Introduction to Bourbon Chicken
Why Bourbon Chicken is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Bourbon Chicken might just be the game changer you need! This flavorful dish combines crispy chicken thighs with a sweet, savory sauce made from garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and, of course, a hint of bourbon. It's a delightful taste of Chinese-American cuisine that can be ready in under 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
The simplicity of this recipe makes it a breeze to whip up after a long day at the office. You only need one pan, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, who doesn't love a recipe that gets rave reviews from family and friends?
If you’re looking for something quick yet packed with flavor, Bourbon Chicken brings all the satisfaction of cooking without the fuss. Pair it with fluffy rice or egg fried rice, and you've got yourself a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the delicious details of this easy yet impressive dish! For similar quick meals, check out our One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken.
Ingredients for Bourbon Chicken
Essential ingredients for the chicken
When making Bourbon Chicken, the base ingredient is crucial for achieving that succulent texture. You’ll need:
- 750 g (1.65 lbs) skinless, boneless chicken thigh fillets: Thighs are favored for their juicy, tender quality, especially when cooked at high heat.
- 2 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch): This helps create a crispy coating while the chicken cooks.
- ¼ teaspoon salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
- 3 tablespoon oil: Opt for a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil for frying.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 teaspoon minced ginger: These aromatic ingredients enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Ingredients for the bourbon sauce
The sauce is where the magic happens! Here's what you’ll need to create that sweet and savory glaze:
- 3 tablespoon light soy sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor. You can use low-sodium if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce: Provides a deeper color and flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch): Helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 180 ml (¾ cup) chicken stock: Use low-sodium stock for a healthier touch.
- 4 tablespoon bourbon whisky: This is the name of the dish! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace it with 4 tablespoon apple juice and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
- 5 tablespoon light brown sugar: Balances the soy saltiness with a lovely sweetness.
This combination promises a dish that's bursting with flavor, perfect for quick weeknight dinners! For more tips on sauces, check out this resource.
Step-by-step Preparation of Bourbon Chicken
Creating a delicious batch of Bourbon Chicken is easier than you may think! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into the steps to ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Make the bourbon sauce
Start by whipping up the Bourbon sauce, which is the star of this dish! In a medium bowl or jug, combine:
- 3 tablespoons of light soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornflour (cornstarch in the USA)
- 180 ml (¾ cup) of chicken stock
- 4 tablespoons of bourbon whiskey (or substitute with 4 tablespoons of apple juice mixed with 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce)
- 5 tablespoons of light brown sugar
Stir the ingredients together until the cornflour is fully dissolved. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the chicken; it’ll be worth the wait!
Prepare the chicken
Now, let’s turn our attention to the chicken. For this recipe, you’ll need 750 g (1.65 lbs) of skinless, boneless chicken thigh fillets. Place the chicken in a large bowl and sprinkle over:
- 2 tablespoons of cornflour
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
Toss everything to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This step not only helps seal in moisture but also creates a delightful texture when cooked.
Cook the chicken in a skillet
Heat up 3 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan (skillet) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 8-12 minutes, turning a few times, until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Add garlic and ginger
Once your chicken is beautifully browned, it’s time to amp up the flavor profile. Turn the heat down to medium and introduce some fresh aromatics. Add:
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of minced ginger
Sauté these for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be nothing short of intoxicating!
Combine chicken and sauce
Now comes the moment we’ve all been waiting for. Pour the bourbon sauce into the skillet, turning the heat back up to medium-high. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is well coated and the sauce thickens.
For an extra touch, you can slice the chicken into strips for that classic food court style. Serve your Bourbon Chicken with boiled rice or egg fried rice, garnished with thinly sliced spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and relish the compliments you'll receive! If you're interested in more culinary delights, check out The Spruce Eats or Serious Eats for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
Variations on Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon Chicken with Vegetables
Elevate your bourbon chicken by incorporating colorful vegetables! Bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli not only add vibrant flavors but also boost the dish’s nutritional value. Simply toss your chopped veggies into the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll absorb some of that delicious sauce and provide a satisfying crunch.
For a guide on selecting and prepping the best vegetables, check out this helpful resource.
Spicy Bourbon Chicken
If you crave a little heat, try making spicy bourbon chicken! Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the bourbon sauce for a kick that complements the sweetness. You’ll enjoy a delightful balance of flavors that’ll have your taste buds tingling with excitement. For more ideas on how to spice up your meals, browse these creative tips.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Bourbon Chicken
Tips for Cooking Chicken Thighs
When preparing your Bourbon Chicken, opt for skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Cut the thighs into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Before cooking, coat them with cornflour, salt, and pepper; this not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that crispy texture as you fry. Cooking on medium-high heat allows for a nice golden brown finish while keeping the insides tender.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover Bourbon Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to refresh the sauce and keep it from drying out. This dish also tastes great cold in a salad or wrap the next day, making it a versatile option for lunch!
Serving Suggestions for Bourbon Chicken
Best sides to pair with bourbon chicken
When serving your Bourbon Chicken, consider sides that complement the rich flavors of the dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Boiled Rice or Egg Fried Rice: The classic choice, perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers add a healthy crunch.
- Noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles tossed in a bit of sesame oil can create a delightful texture contrast.
Garnishes and toppings
To enhance your Bourbon Chicken, think about adding some fresh garnishes. A sprinkle of thinly sliced spring onions or scallions provides a burst of flavor, while sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch. For an extra touch, consider a drizzle of sriracha or a side of tangy pickled vegetables for a zesty kick.
These thoughtful pairings will elevate your dish and make your meal truly memorable. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Bourbon Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your Bourbon Chicken will only take about 10 minutes. This includes chopping your ingredients and mixing up the sauce.
Cooking Time
Once prepped, the actual cooking will take about 16 minutes. You’ll be delighted to see your chicken transform as it cooks in the pan!
Total Time
From start to finish, you can have this delicious dish on the table in just 26 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner after a long day.
For more details on this recipe, check out Nicky Corbishley’s full recipe for Bourbon Chicken!
Nutritional Facts for Bourbon Chicken
Calories per serving
A serving of Bourbon Chicken contains approximately 442 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for dinner without going overboard on calories, especially when served with a side of rice or veggies.
Key nutritional components
In addition to being delicious, Bourbon Chicken packs a punch in the nutrition department:
- Protein: 39g, supporting muscle health.
- Carbohydrates: 20g, offering a good energy source.
- Fat: 18g, including healthy fats.
- Sodium: 2064mg, primarily from soy sauce, so consider low-sodium options if you’re monitoring intake.
Curious about how the flavors come together while also keeping things nutritious? Explore the balance of sweet and savory in this quick dish that can suit any palate! For more insights on healthy cooking, check out the USDA's dietary guidelines.
FAQs about Bourbon Chicken
Can I substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs benefit from their juiciness and tenderness, you can use chicken breasts if that's what you prefer. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly. A quick tip: cook them just until no longer pink in the center for the best results.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Sweetness is key to a perfect Bourbon Chicken dish. You can easily tweak it by adjusting the amount of light brown sugar in the sauce. If you find the sauce too sweet, try reducing the sugar by a tablespoon. Conversely, if you love it sweeter, feel free to add more—just remember to taste as you go!
Can I make bourbon chicken in advance?
Yes, you can! While Bourbon Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, making it ahead is perfectly fine. Cook the dish, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge for up to a day. When it's time to eat, reheating in a skillet will help retain the flavors. Just add a splash of chicken stock to loosen up the sauce!
Conclusion on Bourbon Chicken
Bourbon Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly marries sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite among many. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this tasty meal that satisfies both hunger and taste buds. Serve it over rice, and enjoy a comforting dinner that's ideal for any night!
For more tips and inspiration, check out excellent resources like Serious Eats or Food Hero for variations and ideas to elevate your dish.
Bourbon Chicken
Equipment
- large frying pan
Ingredients
Chicken
- 750 g skinless, boneless chicken thigh fillets (trimmed)
- 2 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch in USA)
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoon oil
- 3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
Bourbon Sauce
- 3 tablespoon light soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch in USA)
- 180 ml chicken stock (use low sodium if preferred)
- 4 tablespoon bourbon whisky (replace with 4 tablespoon apple juice + 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce if preferred)
- 5 tablespoon light brown sugar
To Serve
- boiled rice or egg fried rice
- spring onions (thinly sliced)
- sesame seeds
Instructions
Bourbon Sauce Preparation
- Add the light and dark soy sauce to a small bowl or jug. Stir in the cornflour until dissolved.
- Add the chicken stock, bourbon and sugar and stir together. Put to one side.
Chicken Preparation
- Place the chicken in a bowl and sprinkle on the cornflour, salt and pepper. Toss together to thoroughly coat.
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan (skillet) over a medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 8-12 minutes, turning a few times during cooking, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Turn the heat down to medium and add the garlic and ginger.
- Fry for a further 30 seconds, moving everything round in the pan.
- Pour in the sauce and turn the heat back up to medium-high. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is coated, and the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat, remove the chicken from the pan, roughly slice and place back in the sauce, stir to coat.
- Serve over rice, topped with spring onions and sesame seeds.
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