As I stood by the grill, the enticing scent of sesame mingling with ginger and garlic filled the air, instantly transporting me to the vibrant food courts where the tantalizing aroma of bourbon chicken beckons hungry passersby. It’s that sweet and savory cocktail of flavors that gets your taste buds dancing, and I couldn’t resist the urge to recreate it in my own kitchen.
When I first experimented with making Sesame Chicken Skewers, I had one goal in mind: to capture that exact balance of sticky sweetness and smoky flavor without the usual takeout wait time. After a particularly long day filled with endless to-do lists and fast-food temptation, I realized home-cooked delights don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick air fryer trick, I transformed ordinary chicken tenders into irresistible skewers that became an instant family favorite.
Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your dinner guests or simply enjoy a delightful meal that feels as special as a night out, all from the comfort of your home!
Why is Food Court Bourbon Chicken so beloved?
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of sesame, ginger, and garlic creates a taste explosion that transports you straight to your favorite food court.
Quick and Easy: With just 12-15 minutes of cook time, these skewers are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies for added color and crunch.
Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory profile appeals to both kids and adults, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Healthier Alternative: Swap takeout for these air-fried skewers without sacrificing flavor, giving you a guilt-free indulgence.
You’ll be surprised how this simple recipe can elevate your home cooking and impress your guests!
Ingredients for Food Court Bourbon Chicken
• Get ready to gather the essentials for these delightful skewers!
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken tenders – Use fresh or frozen; just ensure they’re thawed before marinating.
For the Marinade
- 1 heaping teaspoon grated garlic clove – Freshly grated garlic enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- 1 heaping teaspoon grated ginger – This aromatic ingredient brings a warm, zesty kick to your skewers.
- 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adjust to taste for a little extra heat; this also balances the dish’s sweetness.
- 1/4 cup apple juice – Adds a hint of fruity sweetness — feel free to substitute with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar – Helps create that signature sticky glaze that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup – Provides a touch of acidity and helps to thicken the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar – Balances out the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
- 1/2 cup water – This helps to mix the marinade; adjust based on desired sauce consistency.
- 1/3 cup soy sauce – Brings that essential umami flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce, making it cling beautifully to the skewers.
For the Garnish
- Sesame seeds – Toast them lightly before sprinkling for an added crunch and nuttiness.
Embrace the joyful process of cooking with this Food Court Bourbon Chicken recipe, and let your kitchen be filled with enticing aromas that whisk you away to your favorite food court!
How to Make Sesame Chicken Skewers
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Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, mix all of the marinade ingredients, except for the cornstarch slurry. Bring it to a gentle boil, allowing the aromas to mingle beautifully.
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Thicken the Sauce: Gradually drizzle the cornstarch into the sauce while whisking continuously. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, then turn off the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes.
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Prepare the Chicken: While your sauce cools, cut your chicken tenders into 3″ pieces. Place them in a zip-top bag or a bowl ready for marinating.
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Marinate the Chicken: Pour 1/3 cup of the cooled sauce over the chicken and mix well, ensuring every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
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Separate Sauce: Divide the remaining sauce into two containers: one for basting the uncooked chicken and one for basting after cooking and drizzling.
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Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, packing them together tightly. This recipe typically makes about 6 large skewers, perfect for sharing!
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Air Fry to Perfection: Place a few skewers in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through and baste with sauce every 4 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Optional: Top with toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Food Court Bourbon Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with your sesame chicken skewers and tailor them to your taste!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinating them the same way for a delicious plant-based option. Tofu has an incredible ability to soak up flavors, making every bite delightful.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for the same rich umami flavor without the gluten. This simple swap allows everyone to enjoy the dish without any worries.
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Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or fresh chili pepper to your marinade for an extra layer of heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. Your guests will love the surprise!
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Honey-Sesame: Swap brown sugar with honey for an irresistibly sticky glaze and a deeper flavor that pairs perfectly with the sesame crunch. This twist adds a lovely caramelized touch to your skewers.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate pineapple or bell pepper pieces onto your skewers for a burst of sweetness and color. The slight char adds an enticing smokiness that elevates each bite.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of lime zest for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavors and provides a perfect balance to the sweetness.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your marinade for a complex, smoky layer that beautifully complements the chicken. It’s like summertime grilling in every bite!
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Nuts and Seeds: Top with toasted peanuts or chopped cashews to introduce a delightful crunch and extra texture that enhances the overall experience of your skewers.
Embrace these variations and make this Food Court Bourbon Chicken recipe your own – your creativity will make each meal special!
Helpful Tricks for Food Court Bourbon Chicken
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Optimal Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, if possible, for deeper flavor infusion and juiciness.
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Uniform Skewering: Ensure chicken pieces are evenly sized to promote even cooking across all skewers; avoid overcrowding for crispy results.
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Basting Technique: Baste often during cooking, but don’t overload; this keeps the chicken moist without creating a soggy texture.
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Watch the Heat: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels when making your Food Court Bourbon Chicken; creativity is encouraged!
What to Serve with Sesame Chicken Skewers?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these flavorful skewers with complementary side dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, creating a perfect base for the skewers.
- Crunchy Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a crisp, fresh contrast that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy in garlic oil brings vibrant greens to your plate, contributing both nutrition and color.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing slices of cucumber drizzled with vinegar and sesame oil cleanse the palate and add a light crunch.
- Grilled Veggies: A medley of charred bell peppers, onions, and zucchini enhances the meal with smoky flavors and delightful textures.
- Szechuan Noodles: Served cold or warm, these noodles drizzled with a spicy sauce offer a delightful kick that complements the overall profile of your meal.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A drizzle of sweet chili sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the sticky sweetness of the skewers.
- Mango Margarita: This fruity drink will enhance your meal with a tropical twist, providing a refreshing balance to the savory elements.
- Sesame Seed Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with chewy cookies that echo the delicious flavors of sesame present throughout the dinner.
With these additions, your Sesame Chicken Skewers will shine, creating a memorable meal that’s sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Sesame Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that every piece is full of flavor when cooked. Simply prepare the marinade and cut the chicken, then combine them in a zip-top bag and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. For even easier prep, you can thread the marinated chicken onto skewers up to 3 days ahead, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just place the skewers in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, basting with the remaining sauce for that irresistible finish. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Sesame Chicken Skewers with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store cooked sesame chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen skewers, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat in the air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until heated through.
Airtight Packing: For best results, ensure the skewers are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn and maintain that delicious flavor of your sesame chicken.
Sesame Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I select chicken tenders for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken tenders, look for ones that are firm and slightly moist. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell, as those are indicators of spoilage. If possible, go for organic or hormone-free chicken for the best flavor and quality!
What’s the best way to store leftover sesame chicken skewers?
You can store cooked sesame chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I recommend setting your air fryer to 350°F and warming them for about 5-7 minutes, which will help them retain their juicy texture!
Can I freeze sesame chicken skewers?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
No worries! If the sauce doesn’t thicken as you’d like, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk this mixture into the sauce over low heat until it reaches your desired thickness. Be patient and keep stirring for the best results!
Are there any dietary considerations for sesame chicken skewers?
Yes, please be mindful of any allergies! This recipe contains soy, which may not be suitable for those with soy allergies. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check your labels if you’re cooking for someone with food restrictions, so everyone can enjoy this delightful dish safely!
Savor Homemade Food Court Bourbon Chicken in Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, mix all of the marinade ingredients, except for the cornstarch slurry. Bring it to a gentle boil, allowing the aromas to mingle beautifully.
- Gradually drizzle the cornstarch into the sauce while whisking continuously. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, then turn off the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- While your sauce cools, cut your chicken tenders into 3-inch pieces. Place them in a zip-top bag or a bowl ready for marinating.
- Pour 1/3 cup of the cooled sauce over the chicken and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated for maximum flavor.
- Divide the remaining sauce into two containers: one for basting the uncooked chicken and one for after cooking and drizzling.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, packing them tightly. This typically makes about 6 large skewers.
- Place a few skewers in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with sauce every 4 minutes.