Bourbon Street Chicken from Golden Corral features tender grilled chicken glazed with a smoky bourbon sauce, garnished with sauteed onions and peppers, delivering a flavorful blend of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Spoon or spatula
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures tenderness and allows the smoky bourbon sauce to fully infuse the meat with flavor. The combination of low-sodium soy sauce and bourbon whiskey creates a balanced blend of savory and tangy notes, while brown sugar and apple cider vinegar add the perfect touch of sweetness and acidity. Be sure to saute the onions and bell peppers separately to preserve their texture and enhance their natural flavors. Cornstarch mixed with water is key to thickening the sauce and achieving that glossy glaze seen in the dish. Your copycat Bourbon Street Chicken from Golden Corral will capture the original's vibrant taste and perfect harmony of spices.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Slice onion and bell peppers.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in a bowl and pour half the marinade over them. Reserve the other half.
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté sliced onions and bell peppers until tender; set aside.
- Pour reserved marinade into the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl; whisk into simmering sauce.
- Cook sauce until thickened, then remove from heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade; discard used marinade.
- Grill chicken thighs 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Brush grilled chicken with thickened bourbon sauce.
- Arrange chicken on serving platter; top with sautéed onions and peppers.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Bourbon Street Chicken from Golden Corral copycat menu is best made with boneless, skinless chicken thighs to ensure tender, juicy results. If bourbon whiskey is unavailable or you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute it with a mix of apple juice and a splash of vanilla extract to maintain a similar depth of flavor. When grilling is not an option, cooking the chicken in a grill pan over medium-high heat works perfectly well and still achieves a smoky char. For thickening the sauce, the cornstarch and water slurry can be replaced with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch, especially if you need a gluten-free alternative. You can customize the level of heat by adjusting the cayenne pepper according to your personal preference.
Tips
Ensure the chicken thighs are fully coated and marinated for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. When grilling, maintain medium-high heat for even cooking and avoid pressing down on the chicken to keep it juicy. Use the reserved marinade only in the saucepan and discard the marinade that touched raw chicken to prevent contamination. Whisk the cornstarch and water mixture thoroughly before adding it to the simmering sauce to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, thickened glaze for brushing.
Nutritions
Bourbon Street Chicken combines lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken thighs with antioxidants and vitamins from onions and bell peppers. The smoky bourbon sauce contains a moderate amount of sugars from brown sugar and ketchup, balanced by low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake. Your meal provides a good blend of protein, natural flavors, and essential micronutrients like vitamin C from the peppers. Serving this dish with a side of vegetables or whole grains can enhance its nutritional profile.
Storage
Store leftover Bourbon Street Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For optimal flavor preservation, separate the grilled chicken from the sauteed onions and peppers before storing. Reheat your meal thoroughly in a microwave or oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap boneless chicken thighs with skin-on for a juicier texture and richer flavor. Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar to add a unique sweetness that complements the bourbon sauce. To intensify smoky notes, char the bell peppers and onions directly on the grill before sauteing. Consider marinating the chicken overnight to enhance the depth of flavor, ensuring your dish becomes even more savory and tender.
Allergies
Bourbon Street Chicken contains soy sauce, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy. The dish also includes Worcestershire sauce, often made with anchovies, presenting a risk to those allergic to fish. Your attention to these ingredients is crucial if you have known allergies to soy, fish, or any other components in the marinade.
Why this recipe?
Bourbon Street Chicken at Golden Corral delights with its tender, juicy chicken marinated in a blend of bold Cajun spices and smoky bourbon sauce, delivering a rich, savory flavor profile. The balance of sweet and spicy elements makes it a satisfying choice for those seeking a taste of Southern cuisine with a unique twist. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the heat level and ingredient quality, ensuring freshness and flavor intensity tailored to your preferences. Your homemade dish can replicate the restaurant's winning combination while offering the satisfaction of cooking a beloved recipe from scratch.