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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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
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