One-Skillet Bourbon Chicken

INGREDIENTS:

¼ cup lower-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup bourbon
¼ cup unsweetened apple juice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch-thick strips
1 tablespoon cornstarch, plus 1 teaspoon, divided
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 teaspoons water
3 cups cooked brown rice
Sliced scallions, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Combine soy sauce, bourbon, apple juice, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger and crushed red pepper in a small bowl.
Toss together chicken and 1 tablespoon cornstarch in a large bowl. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken; cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the soy-bourbon mixture; stir to coat. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce has reduced to a syrupy consistency and the chicken is cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes.
Combine water and the remaining 1 teaspoon cornstarch in a small bowl; stir to mix well. Add to the pan; cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken, 1 to 2 minutes.
Divide rice among 4 plates; top with the chicken and sauce. Garnish with scallions, if desired.