What To Know
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or carrots for a complete meal.
- Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Craving the mouthwatering bourbon chicken from Applebee’s? With this comprehensive guide, you can replicate the iconic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow these step-by-step instructions and prepare to tantalize your taste buds.
Gather Your Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, cornstarch, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, cornstarch, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Brown the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides.
5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve over rice or noodles.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality bourbon for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken or it will become tough.
- Add a splash of water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- If you don’t have bourbon, you can substitute with whiskey or rum.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or carrots for a complete meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Honey Bourbon Chicken: Increase the honey in the sauce to 1/2 cup.
- Pineapple Bourbon Chicken: Add a cup of chopped pineapple to the skillet along with the vegetables.
- Teriyaki Bourbon Chicken: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce.
Key Points:
With these easy-to-follow instructions, you can now indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of Applebee’s Bourbon Chicken at home. Experiment with the variations to find your perfect combination. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Thaw it completely before marinating.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. However, 30 minutes is sufficient for optimal flavor.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before using.
Q: What if I don’t have a skillet?
A: You can use a large saucepan or Dutch oven instead.
Q: Can I substitute the vegetables?
A: Yes, you can substitute the vegetables with any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
