Bourbon Chicken - Lu Bao Seasoning

Bourbon Chicken is a delightful dish uniquely seasoned with Lu Bao, creating a flavorful experience without the need for garlic, ginger, onion, or crushed red pepper. This version focuses on a harmonious blend of brown sugar, bourbon (or apple juice), and soy sauce, enhanced by the rich, complex taste of Lu Bao seasoning. Served with rice, it's a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy at home.

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch, divided

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce

• 1/3 cup reduced sodium chicken broth

• 1/4 cup bourbon (or apple juice as a non-alcoholic option)

• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Lu Bao seasoning

• 2 cups cooked rice

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients you'll need for the recipe.

2. Season and Cook Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a medium bowl until they are evenly coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring until browned. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate using a slotted spoon and set aside.

3. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the remaining tablespoon of cornstarch, soy sauce, chicken broth, bourbon, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and Lu Bao seasoning. Stir well to make sure the mixture is smooth and even.

4. Thicken Sauce and Add Chicken: Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat it thoroughly in the sauce. Continue to cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is completely heated through.

5. Serve: Divide the cooked rice among four plates. Spoon the bourbon chicken over the rice, and garnish each serving with sliced green onions.

Enjoy this enhanced Bourbon Chicken, a dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of brown sugar with the depth of bourbon and the distinctive flavors of Lu Bao seasoning.