There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of a delicious meal waiting for you.
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is that kind of dish.
It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Whether you’re juggling a busy workweek or planning a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is your go-to solution.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful culinary adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a game-changer for any home cook.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work.
The rich, sweet flavor of bourbon combined with tender chicken creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Creating the perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, making them ideal for slow cooking. You can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option, but thighs add more flavor.
Soy sauce: This adds a savory depth to the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Brown sugar: It brings sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. For a twist, try using honey or maple syrup.
Bourbon: The star of the show! It infuses the chicken with a rich, smoky flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice or a splash of vinegar.
Minced garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
Minced ginger: This adds warmth and a hint of spice. Ground ginger can be a substitute, but fresh ginger is more aromatic.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these flakes can elevate the dish. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Cornstarch: This is used to thicken the sauce at the end, giving it a nice glaze. You can also use arrowroot powder as a gluten-free alternative.
Water: Just a bit to mix with the cornstarch for thickening.
Green onions: These are for garnish, adding a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
Cooked rice: Serve the bourbon chicken over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a mouthwatering meal!
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Making Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a breeze.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress.
Let’s dive into the process!
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by grabbing a large bowl.
Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves.
This sauce is the heart of your dish, so make sure it’s well mixed!
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Next, take your bite-sized chicken thighs and place them in the Crock Pot.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated.
This is where the magic begins!
The chicken will soak up all those flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now, cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook.
You can choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
The longer, the better!
You want the chicken to be tender and juicy, falling apart with a fork.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to thicken that sauce.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
Stir this into the Crock Pot.
This will give your sauce that glossy finish, making it even more appetizing.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to dig in!
Serve the bourbon chicken over a bed of cooked rice.
Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Take a moment to appreciate your creation before diving in.
Trust me, the flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Tips for Success
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry; it’s key for a thick, luscious sauce.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey to taste.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a complete meal.
Leftovers taste even better the next day, so make extra!
Equipment Needed
Crock Pot: The star of the show! Any slow cooker will do, but a programmable one makes timing easier.
Large Bowl: For mixing your sauce. A mixing jug can work in a pinch.
Measuring Cups: Essential for accuracy. Use a kitchen scale if you prefer weight measurements.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring. A silicone spatula is a great alternative.
Variations
Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
Honey Bourbon Chicken: Replace brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness profile.
Asian-Inspired: Add sesame oil and serve with steamed bok choy for a unique flavor.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken: Swap bourbon for your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a colorful plate.
A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
For drinks, try a light beer or a refreshing iced tea.
Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flair!
FAQs about Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Got questions about making the perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but keep in mind that they may not be as tender as thighs. If you go this route, consider reducing the cooking time slightly.
What can I substitute for bourbon? If you prefer not to use alcohol, apple juice or a splash of vinegar can work well. They’ll still give your dish a nice depth of flavor.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken? Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What sides pair well with this dish? Serve it over rice, or pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A light beer or iced tea makes for a refreshing drink alongside!
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table.
The rich flavors and tender chicken create a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe has a way of making any occasion special.
Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the deliciousness, and let this dish become a staple in your kitchen!
A delicious and easy recipe for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken that is perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup soy sauce
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup bourbon
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Place the chicken pieces in the Crock Pot and pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the Crock Pot to thicken the sauce.
Once done, serve the bourbon chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions.
Notes
For a sweeter flavor, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of honey to the sauce.
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, but keep in mind that thighs tend to be more tender.
