Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken

Craving a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist? This Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken captures the iconic flavors of the classic mall food court dish. Tender chicken thighs are simmered to perfection, delivering a sweet and savory glaze that’s irresistible.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together effortlessly with a handful of pantry staples like soy sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar. The bourbon and apple cider vinegar add a rich depth of flavor, making each bite unforgettable.

Serve this crowd-pleaser over rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It’s a sure way to impress guests or elevate your family’s dinner routine.

Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Unforgettable Flavor

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and tender, the perfect base for soaking up that rich, bourbon-infused sauce. Their natural richness elevates every bite.
• Bourbon: Adds a warm, oaky depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness in the sauce, creating a distinct, mouthwatering flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Balances the savory notes with a hint of caramelized sweetness, ensuring that signature glazed finish.
• Soy Sauce: Infuses the dish with umami richness, enhancing the savory undertones and creating a well-rounded taste.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth, providing a robust foundation for the complex blend of sweet and savory flavors.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A tangy twist that cuts through the sweetness, adding brightness and depth to the sauce.

Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ

Recipe Tips

1. Sauté for Enhanced Flavor: When cooking the garlic and oil in the Instant Pot, make sure to use the “Sauté” function until the garlic is golden and fragrant. This step releases the garlic’s natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce, creating a richer flavor profile. Don’t rush this process—those few extra minutes help develop the aromatic base that complements the sweet and tangy bourbon sauce.
2. Deglaze for a Smooth Sauce: After adding the bourbon and apple cider vinegar, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot. These caramelized bits add extra flavor and prevent the “burn” notice when pressure cooking. This deglazing process ensures the sauce has a smooth consistency while incorporating all those delicious, savory flavors that might otherwise go to waste.
3. Control the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, adjust the sauté time at the end. After pressure cooking, set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” and let the mixture simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening. For a thinner sauce, you can add an extra splash of chicken broth before simmering, allowing you to find the perfect balance for serving over rice or mashed potatoes.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken

1. Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing, steamed white rice soaks up the sweet and savory bourbon sauce perfectly. The simplicity of the rice balances the richness of the chicken, making each bite flavorful yet not overwhelming. Jasmine or basmati rice adds a slight aromatic touch, elevating the meal’s overall appeal.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier option, serve the bourbon chicken over creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the tender chicken pieces, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. The buttery richness of the potatoes melds beautifully with the thick, saucy chicken.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Lighten up the plate with a side of crisp stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Their natural crunch adds a refreshing contrast to the tender, saucy chicken. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors create a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Keep in mind that breasts tend to be leaner and may require a slightly shorter cooking time to prevent drying out. Adjust pressure-cooking time to 3 minutes for best results.
2. Do I need to use bourbon, or is there a substitute?
   Bourbon adds a unique depth to the dish, but if you prefer an alcohol-free version, you can replace it with apple juice or a splash of additional chicken broth. The flavor won’t be identical, but the dish will still have a rich, sweet-savory balance.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
   Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it on the stove over medium heat until the chicken is heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickened too much in the fridge.
4. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
   Absolutely! To make this on the stovetop, follow the steps using a large pot. Sauté the garlic and oil, add the chicken and sauce mixture, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens. This might take around 20-25 minutes.

Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken

Calling all fans of classic mall eats and those who appreciate easy-to-make chicken dishes! This recipe for Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken brings back the flavors of that food court favorite from the ’90s. If you spent any time in the malls back then, you might recall those tempting bites of perfectly sauced chicken handed out on toothpicks. This dish captures that nostalgia with a modern twist.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 3 lb. skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Kosher salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup bourbon
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Cooked rice or mashed potatoes for serving
• Sliced scallions for garnish

Instructions

 

• Step 1:
• In a large measuring cup or medium mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the chicken broth with cornstarch until smooth. Incorporate the brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, whisking until fully combined.
• Step 2:
• Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Heat the vegetable oil, then add the minced garlic, stirring constantly until the garlic becomes fragrant and turns a light golden color, approximately 2 minutes. Pour in the bourbon and apple cider vinegar, allowing the mixture to come to a boil. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half. Add the chicken and the prepared broth mixture, stirring well to coat.
• Step 3:
• Secure the Instant Pot lid and select “Pressure Cook” on High for 4 minutes. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a slow pressure release, ensuring the pressure has fully dissipated before opening the lid.
• Step 4:
• Switch the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” setting, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cook while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to a rich, gravy-like consistency, about 8 to 10 minutes.
• Step 5:
• Serve by dividing the cooked rice or mashed potatoes among plates. Spoon the bourbon chicken mixture over the top and finish with a sprinkle of sliced scallions. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this revamped food court classic.

Keyword Instant Pot Copycat Bourbon Chicken