Introduction
Ah, Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli – just the mention of it sends your taste buds on a tantalizing journey. This dish, a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice, promises not just a meal but an experience. Let’s dive into the world of cooking where simplicity meets sophistication, and discover how to bring this delightful dish to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp cornstarch, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water, plus 1 tbsp for slurry
- 2/3 cup soy sauce
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then mix with 2 tbsp cornstarch. Set aside.
- In a bowl, combine bourbon, broth, soy sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, apple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and pepper flakes. Set this flavorful concoction aside.
- Over medium heat, add 2 tbsp oil and cook broccoli until tender, stirring often. Set aside.
- Crank the heat to medium-high, add the remaining oil, and cook chicken until golden, about 3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
- Stir 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water to create a slurry. Keep it on standby.
- Pour the bourbon sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a boil. Add chicken and simmer until the sauce thickens beautifully, about 10-12 minutes.
- Reintroduce broccoli to the pan, stir in the cornstarch slurry, and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Bourbon substitution: If you prefer not to use alcohol, additional chicken broth mixed with a touch of vanilla extract can be a great alternative.
Nutrition Details
- Serving: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 1740mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
- Vitamin A: 160IU
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 2.1mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? A: Absolutely! Chicken breast can be a leaner option, just keep an eye on the cooking time as it tends to cook faster than thighs.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? A: Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can easily adapt this recipe.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if the sauce needs thinning.
This Bourbon Chicken with Broccoli recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through flavors that promises to delight. With each bite, you’ll discover the perfect balance of sweetness, savory notes, and a kick of spice that makes this dish unforgettable.