The Secret To Making Delicious Bourbon Chicken Without Bourbon (you Won’t Believe What Happens Next!)

Bourbon chicken, a beloved dish known for its sweet and savory flavors, is often associated with the bold presence of bourbon whiskey. However, it’s entirely possible to create this delectable dish without the use of alcohol, catering to those who prefer an alcohol-free or halal version. This blog post will guide you through a simple and flavorful recipe that will satisfy your bourbon chicken cravings without the whiskey kick.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken with the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, ketchup, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and enhance its taste.

3. Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside.

4. Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

5. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Thicken the Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the cornstarch mixture. Bring the sauce to a boil and continue cooking until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the bourbon chicken over rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
• If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute olive oil or vegetable oil.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• Serve the bourbon chicken immediately for the best flavor.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Spicy: Add a few sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Sweet: Add a splash of pineapple juice or orange juice to the sauce.
• Savory: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce or oyster sauce to the sauce.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use pork, beef, or shrimp instead of chicken.

Q: How long can I store the bourbon chicken?
A: Store the bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze the bourbon chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bourbon chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.