Name: Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: A Sweet & Tangy Family Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 315 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (can substitute with chicken breasts); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (coconut sugar can be used); 1/2 cup soy sauce (Tamari is a gluten-free alternative); 1/2 cup bourbon whisky (substitute with apple juice or chicken broth for non-alcoholic); 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (rice vinegar is a substitute); 1 teaspoon ground ginger (fresh ginger can be used); 1/4 cup honey (maple syrup is a vegan option); 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 3 cloves garlic (garlic powder can be used); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (arrowroot powder can be used); 2 stalks green onions (chives can be substituted)

As the sun dips below the horizon, the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked goodness begins to waft through my kitchen, ushering in a perfect blend of sweet and savory. My go-to for those busy weeknights is this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, a delightful fusion of American and Chinese flavors that’s both family-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Imagine succulent chicken thighs simmering to perfection in a rich, glossy bourbon sauce, effortlessly transforming dinner into a cozy culinary escape. With minimal prep time, you can set this dish and forget it, allowing you to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones. Serve it over fluffy rice, and you have a comforting meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Ready to discover how to make this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive in!

Why is Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken a Must-Try?

Effortless Cooking: This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy families.

Bold Flavors: The sweet and tangy bourbon sauce provides a delightful blend that elevates your chicken dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its rich taste and familiar flavors, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your dinner table.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, as suggested, or serve it with steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead Wonder: Prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers, just like the comforting flavors of Smothered Chicken and Rice that hit the spot!

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken will quickly become a household favorite, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining table!

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Ingredients

• A delicious recipe begins with great ingredients.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – The star of the dish, boneless and skinless for juicy tenderness; can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.

For the Sauce

Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier twist.
Soy Sauce – Provides that essential salty umami flavor; Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Bourbon Whisky – The key to our signature flavor; apple juice or chicken broth works well for a non-alcoholic twist.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with its tang; rice vinegar is a perfect substitute if needed.
Ground Ginger – Infuses warmth and spice; feel free to use fresh ginger for a brighter flavor.
Honey – A natural sweetener to enhance the flavor; maple syrup is an excellent vegan replacement.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds just the right amount of heat; adjust to your spice preference or leave it out entirely.
Garlic – This beloved aromatic elevates the taste; garlic powder is a convenient shortcut if you’re in a hurry.

For the Glaze

Cornstarch – Thicken the sauce to a perfect glaze; arrowroot powder can be an alternative if preferred.
Green Onions – Adds a fresh finish to your dish; chives can be used instead or simply omitted.

Embrace the comforting flavors of this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken and bring joy to your family dinner!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the boneless, skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are ready for the slow cooker. Place the thighs in the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking. This will serve as the foundation for your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, allowing the sauce to fully envelop the chicken as it cooks.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until the mixture is well combined and smooth. This sweet and tangy concoction is the key to your Bourbon Chicken’s delightful flavor profile. Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are uniformly coated.

Step 3: Set the Cooker
Cover the crock pot with its lid, sealing in the flavors and moisture. Set your slow cooker to cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, with an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) when done. As it simmers, the delightful aroma of your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken will fill your kitchen, creating anticipation for the meal.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully uncover the slow cooker and use tongs to remove the chicken thighs. Place them on a cutting board and roughly chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside the chicken to cool briefly while you prepare the sauce for thickening, ensuring every piece will be coated in the luscious glaze.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with an equal amount of water, stirring until fully dissolved. Add this mixture to the sauce in the crock pot, then stir gently to combine everything well. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect thickness in your sauce, creating a glossy glaze that beautifully clings to the chicken.

Step 6: Combine and Heat
Return the chopped chicken to the crock pot, mixing it well with the thickened sauce. Cover the slow cooker again and allow it to cook on high for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the chicken is hot. This final step helps all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a deliciously rich Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is heated through, it’s time to serve! Spoon the Bourbon Chicken over fluffy white rice for a comforting meal. Garnish your dish with freshly sliced green onions to add a touch of color and freshness. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the enticing sweet and tangy flavors that make this dish a family favorite.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

As you prepare this savory dish, imagine a complete meal that ignites the senses and invites conversation around the dinner table.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant option absorbs the rich bourbon sauce beautifully, offering a comforting base for every tender bite of chicken.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender and vibrant, these add a fresh crunch alongside the sweet and sticky chicken, balancing the meal perfectly.
Sesame Roasted Broccoli: Coated in a light sesame oil mixture, this dish adds both flavor and texture, enhancing the Asian-inspired profile of the meal.
Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side, coleslaw brings a contrasting texture and brings a zingy brightness that complements the saucy chicken nicely.
Dinner Rolls: Fluffy and warm, these rolls are perfect for soaking up the luscious bourbon sauce, giving you every last drop of flavor in each bite.
Fruit Salad: A light and fruity option can provide a refreshing finale, with sweet and tart flavors that cleanse the palate after the savory meal.
Chardonnay or Riesling: Pairing a chilled glass with this meal enhances the flavors, allowing the sweetness of the drink to compliment the bourbon sauce beautifully.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in the warm richness of lava cake, offering a decadent and sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Transform your dinner with these delightful pairings, each contributing to an unforgettable dining experience wrapped in warmth and joy.

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Cook Time Matters: Ensure you cook your dish for the right amount of time—4 hours on high or 6 hours on low—so the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Balance the Sauce: If the sauce tastes too sweet after thickening, add a splash more apple cider vinegar for a zesty punch to complement the bourbon flavor.
Meat Alternatives: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts; just keep an eye on cooking time as breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily.
Avoid Over-Thickening: When using cornstarch, mix it with water only until dissolved to prevent lumps. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when done correctly.
Experiment with Heat: Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to cater to your family’s spice tolerance; you can even omit it for a milder dish if desired.

Embrace these helpful tips to ensure your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly every time!

Make Ahead Options

These Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken dish is ideal for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of preparing the sauce, combining all ingredients, and then pour it over the chicken in an airtight container or a zip-top bag before refrigerating. This time-saving method not only enhances the flavors but also ensures the chicken stays tender and delicious. When ready to cook, place everything in the slow cooker and follow the remaining cooking instructions, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort and just as delightful taste!

How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the flavors while keeping your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken fresh.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them with the date for easy tracking.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. This ensures even reheating and preserves the delicious taste.

Reheating: Warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to maintain sauce consistency if needed.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Variations

Discover the exciting ways to customize your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken and make it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute any butter or cream with vegetable oil or coconut milk for a creamy yet non-dairy finish.
Vegetarian: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken, absorbing the delicious sweet and tangy sauce, creating a satisfying and hearty meal.
Heat Boost: Add fresh diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Spice lovers will appreciate this fiery twist!
Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar according to your palate—try using honey for a mellower flavor or pure maple syrup for a unique sweetness.
Loaded Chicken: Incorporate diced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots into the slow cooker for a nutritious twist, making your meal more colorful and hearty.
Rice Alternatives: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a light, gluten-free option that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different liquors like rum or whiskey, transforming the flavor profile while keeping it deliciously enjoyable!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro toward the end of cooking for a refreshing and aromatic finish.

With these variations, you’ll find endless excitement in your kitchen! Dive deeper into more comforting meals like Creamy Garlic Cheesy Chicken Potatoes or try your hand at Tandoori Chicken for an added international flair!

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?
You should ideally use boneless and skinless chicken thighs for this recipe as they stay juicy and tender during the slow cooking process. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute them with chicken breasts, but do watch the cooking time as they can dry out faster.

How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact while providing a great option for quick meals later in the week.

Can I freeze Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Portion your Bourbon Chicken into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if the sauce is too thin?
Very! If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth, and then stir it into the sauce in the crock pot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. It offers the same delightful umami flavor without the gluten, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you find the sauce too sweet, add a splash more apple cider vinegar or a hint of soy sauce to balance out the flavors. You can also experiment by reducing the amount of brown sugar you use in the original sauce mixture, tailoring it to your taste preferences.