The Secret To Making Panda Express Bourbon Chicken At Home – It’s Easier Than You Think!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Panda Express Bourbon Chicken from the comfort of your own kitchen. This step-by-step guide will unveil the secrets to creating this beloved dish, ensuring a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Ingredients

Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Other:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the marinade ingredients.
2. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients.
2. Set aside until ready to use.

Frying the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch.
2. Drain the excess marinade from the chicken and dredge in the flour mixture.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch.
5. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain the chicken on paper towels.

Assembling the Dish:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the prepared sauce over medium heat.
2. Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and stir to coat.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Panda Express Bourbon Chicken over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of honey, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality soy sauce for a richer flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible to enhance its tenderness and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or bourbon.
• For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha sauce to the marinade.
• Teriyaki Bourbon Chicken: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce in the marinade and sauce.
• Honey Garlic Bourbon Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey garlic sauce to the sauce.

Ending on a Sweet Note

Mastering the art of Panda Express Bourbon Chicken at home is a culinary triumph that will impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this delectable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they may take a bit longer to cook.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze Panda Express Bourbon Chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Q: What side dishes pair well with Bourbon Chicken?
A: Steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or steamed broccoli are great accompaniments.

Q: How do I make the sauce less sweet?
A: Reduce the amount of honey or sugar in the sauce, or add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for balance.