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Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken Recipe Easy Takeout Style

Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken Recipe (Easy Takeout Style) 🍗🥃

Air Fryer Bourbon Chicken is a deliciously easy takeout-style dish made with tender chicken marinated in a savory bourbon sauce. The air fryer gives it a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey for marinating
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce preferably low-sodium
  • 1/4 cup honey for sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar for acidity
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger for flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for coating chicken
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, ground ginger, and minced garlic to create the marinade for the chicken.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer heats up, drain excess marinade from the chicken and toss the pieces with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  • Check the chicken for doneness; it should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can drizzle some leftover marinade over the chicken for extra flavor.
  • Serve the bourbon chicken over steamed rice or with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Tip 1: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.
Tip 2: You can make the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variation: Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish for added texture and flavor.