Name: Savory Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Thighs (Can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.); 1/2 cup Bourbon or Apple Juice (Bourbon adds rich flavor; apple juice is a non-alcoholic option.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adjust according to sweetness preference.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option.); 2 cloves Garlic (Can use fresh minced or powdered garlic.); 1 tablespoon Vinegar (Balances sweetness.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Mix with water to prevent lumps.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (Can substitute with ground ginger or cayenne for spice.)

As I stood in line at the bustling food court, the alluring scent of sweet and savory Bourbon Chicken wafted toward me, a comforting reminder of my favorite mall meals. It’s no mystery why this dish is a beloved classic; the combination of tender chicken thighs coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce makes for a truly unforgettable experience. With my easy Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, I promise you can recreate that same cozy vibe right in your kitchen. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also adaptable—whether you prefer juicy chicken thighs, lean chicken breasts, or even a non-alcoholic twist with apple juice, the whole family will enjoy it. With minimal prep time involved, this meal comes together effortlessly, meaning you can spend more time savouring the results. So, are you ready to bring a taste of the food court into your home?

Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Easy, Delicious, and Adaptable: You’ll love how effortless this recipe is, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Family-Friendly Appeal: The meal caters to every palate, whether you prefer chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Flavor Packed: The combination of bourbon or apple juice creates a sticky, savory sauce that elevates your ordinary chicken dish into an extraordinary feast.

Quick Cook Time: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a heartwarming dish ready to serve, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal rather than stuck in the kitchen. If you’re looking for other quick options, consider my Cheesy Garlic Chicken recipes for delightful variety.

Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe not only tastes delicious fresh but also reheats beautifully, so feel free to make extra to enjoy later. It’s perfect for meal prep or a laid-back lunch, giving you that food court feeling any day of the week!

Food Court Bourbon Chicken Ingredients

Get ready to recreate the flavors of your favorite food court dish at home!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – These offer a juicy and tender texture; feel free to substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer.

For the Sauce

Bourbon or Apple Juice – Bourbon adds a rich flavor, while apple juice is a fantastic non-alcoholic alternative that mimics the taste.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce; adjust according to your sweetness preference for the best result.
Soy Sauce – Provides essential umami; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re looking to lighten things up.
Garlic (fresh or powdered) – Fresh garlic infuses a robust flavor, while powdered garlic is more convenient; choose based on what you have.

For Thickening

Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the sauce; ensure it’s mixed with water to prevent lumps.

For Added Flavor

Ginger (fresh or ground) – Fresh ginger brightens the dish; if you’re after a spicy kick, cayenne can serve as a zesty substitute.
Vinegar – Balances the sweetness; a splash goes a long way!

This Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe is about to become your new favorite family dinner!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs, searing them for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. This creates a beautiful crust while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, bourbon (or apple juice), brown sugar, minced garlic, and vinegar. Combine these ingredients until the sugar dissolves, blending the sweet and savory components well. This sauce is the heart of your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, so make sure it’s thoroughly mixed for the best flavor.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the browned chicken in the skillet, ensuring each piece is well coated. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the chicken to cook in the sauce for about 15 minutes. As it simmers, the sauce should thicken slightly and become wonderfully sticky, coating the chicken with a luscious glaze.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture to the skillet while stirring continuously, which helps prevent lumps. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens even more and clings beautifully to the chicken, creating that desired glossy finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat and serve your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. For a pop of color and freshness, consider garnishing with sliced green onions. This vibrant addition enhances the dish and makes for a delightful presentation, perfect for sharing with family.

Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Variations

Customize your Food Court Bourbon Chicken to fit your tastes and dietary needs with these delightful variations!

Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner protein option that still stays juicy when cooked properly.
Apple Juice Alternative: For a non-alcoholic twist, use apple juice instead of bourbon to create a sweet, fruity base for the sauce.
Pork Substitute: Trying something different? Tender pork can replace chicken, giving the dish a new flavor experience while complementing the sauce beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Add in colorful vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor; these can be stir-fried alongside the chicken.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice for a light, low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on deliciousness.
Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to elevate the dish with a fiery touch.
Sweet and Savory Mix: Enhance the sauce with a splash of pineapple juice or toss in some dried fruit like raisins for a unique balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Asian Twist: Add sesame oil to the sauce and garnish with toasted sesame seeds for a rich, nutty flavor that honors the dish’s Asian roots.

These variations allow your creativity to flourish in the kitchen! If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, try my Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup for a cozy dinner or my Zesty Lemon Chicken for a bright, tangy dish. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat?

For a full meal experience that invokes comforting nostalgia, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your Bourbon Chicken.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, this classic side absorbs the savory sauce wonderfully, creating a harmonious bite with the chicken.
Lo Mein Noodles: Their chewy texture complements the sticky sauce perfectly, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.
Asian-Style Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crunchy and colorful veggies like bell peppers and broccoli not only enhance nutrition but also contribute freshness to each savory bite. This balance of textures gives your plate vibrancy and appeal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a comfort food twist, pairing Bourbon Chicken with buttery mashed potatoes creates a rich and satisfying experience, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Spring Rolls: These crispy, vegetable-filled delights offer a crunchy contrast that brightens the palate between bites of rich chicken.
Cold Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad provides a cool contrast to the warm chicken, adding a burst of flavor with every crunch.
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Drink: A fruity, refreshing beverage that complements the sweet notes of the dish, ensuring your meal feels festive and full of flavor.
Chocolate Lava Cake: To finish your dinner on a sweet note, this decadent dessert is the perfect treat, with a warm, gooey center that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Make Ahead Options

These Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce (soy sauce, bourbon or apple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and vinegar) up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you prefer prepping the entire dish, cook the chicken and sauce as instructed, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the dish gently in a skillet until warmed through, stirring to maintain that delicious sticky texture. This way, you’ll enjoy an effortless, comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as freshly made!

Expert Tips for Food Court Bourbon Chicken

Choose the Right Chicken: Use chicken thighs for juiciness; however, chicken breasts can also work if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Sauce Consistency: To avoid a sauce that’s too thick, start with less cornstarch and gradually add more if needed. The goal is a sticky, glistening finish without clumps.
Alcohol-Free Option: If using apple juice as a substitute for bourbon, only simmer until warm. This helps maintain the natural sweetness without a lengthy cook time.
Add Flavor with Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the dish’s taste. Don’t hesitate to use them if you have them on hand for a flavor boost in your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe.
Don’t Rush the Simmering: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for the full 15 minutes to really soak up the flavors; this step makes a noticeable difference in taste.
Garnish for Appeal: Always finish your dish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions or sesame seeds. It not only adds color but also enhances the overall presentation and flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Food Court Bourbon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If freezing, transfer the cooled Bourbon Chicken to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently for even warming.

Make-Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep; prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld together overnight for even better taste!

Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using chicken thighs as they stay moist and tender during cooking. However, if you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can also work beautifully! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts may need a slightly shorter cooking time to prevent drying out.

What if I don’t want to use bourbon?
Very good question! If you’d like to avoid alcohol, you can substitute bourbon with apple juice. It mimics the sweet and savory flavor profile nicely. Just simmer the sauce until warm to keep the natural sweetness prominent, rather than cooking it down for an extended period.

How should I store leftovers?
This dish is perfect for storing! You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, let the Bourbon Chicken cool before sealing it. If you plan to enjoy it later, don’t hesitate—this is a fantastic meal-prep option!

Can I freeze Bourbon Chicken, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Food Court Bourbon Chicken Copycat Recipe, first ensure it has cooled. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave until warmed through.

Is there an easy way to adjust the sauce’s thickness?
Definitely! If you find that the sauce is too thick for your liking, start with less cornstarch when creating the slurry. You can always add more until you achieve your desired consistency. Just remember to stir continuously while adding to prevent any lumps. The goal is a sticky and glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
The more the merrier! You can definitely incorporate vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers into your recipe. Simply stir-fry them alongside the chicken during the browning step, allowing them to soak up the flavorful sauce as it simmers. This not only increases the nutritional value but also makes your dish more vibrant and colorful.