Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This bourbon chicken recipe with hoisin sauce is your answer. It's incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers a sweet and savory explosion that will leave everyone wanting more. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup bourbon (or substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with flour, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly. This simple step helps create a wonderfully crispy texture.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, combine the bourbon (or chicken broth), hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it completely in the delicious bourbon hoisin sauce. Simmer for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately over cooked rice. Enjoy this easy and healthy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Bourbon Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey. Conversely, for a sweeter dish, add a tablespoon or two more.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with pork, beef, or tofu.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Roast the chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan for an even easier cleanup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
This bourbon chicken recipe with hoisin sauce is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. It’s a perfect example of how easy it is to create restaurant-quality food at home. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it irresistible, and the quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy weeknights. Give it a try and experience the magic of this easy and healthy meal yourself!