Unveiled: the secret recipe to irresistible restaurant-style bourbon chicken
What To Know
- Bourbon chicken is best when the chicken is slightly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
- Add 1/4 cup of honey and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more garlicky flavor.
- Leftover bourbon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Craving the tantalizing flavors of restaurant-style bourbon chicken? Look no further! This meticulously crafted recipe will guide you through every step of creating this mouthwatering dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken with the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts. Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfection
- Use high-quality bourbon: The flavor of the bourbon will greatly impact the final dish, so choose a quality bourbon that you enjoy.
- Marinate the chicken overnight: This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply and result in more tender chicken.
- Fry the chicken in small batches: This will prevent the oil from cooling down too much and ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Bourbon chicken is best when the chicken is slightly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
- Adjust the heat: If you find the sauce to be too spicy, add a little more honey or ketchup. If it’s not spicy enough, add some red pepper flakes.
Variations
- Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Honey Garlic Bourbon Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of honey and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more garlicky flavor.
- Pineapple Bourbon Chicken: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
Final Thoughts
With this restaurant bourbon chicken recipe, you can now enjoy the authentic flavors of your favorite takeout dish at home. Its crispy texture, savory sauce, and customizable options make it a perfect meal for any occasion.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
Q: How long can I store leftover bourbon chicken?
A: Leftover bourbon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What side dishes go well with bourbon chicken?
A: Bourbon chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including rice, noodles, broccoli, or carrots.