Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Looking for a family-friendly, flavorful recipe that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table? Look no further than this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, this dish is packed with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Toss everything into the crock pot and let it work its magic.
• Pantry staples: The ingredients are simple and probably already in your kitchen.
• Kid-friendly: The alcohol cooks off completely, leaving a sweet and tangy sauce that kids adore.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even a bed of veggies for a low-carb option.

Groceries You’ll Need: Ingredients

Here’s a quick shopping list for this easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken:

• Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless, 3 lbs)
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup)
• Soy Sauce (1 cup)
• Bourbon Whiskey (⅓ cup; or substitute)
• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp)
• Ground Ginger (½ tsp)
• Honey (1 tbsp)
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp)
• Garlic Cloves (4, minced)
• Cornstarch (3 tbsp)
• Water (2 tbsp)
• Green Onions (¼ cup, chopped for garnish)

Recipe Walkthrough: Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a stress-free cooking experience:

1. Prepare the chicken: Place the trimmed chicken thighs at the bottom of your crock pot.
2. Make the sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and garlic.
3. Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken, cover, and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours.
4. Shred the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken, roughly chop or shred, and set aside.
5. Thicken the sauce: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
6. Combine: Return the chicken to the crock pot, stir to coat, and let it heat through for a few minutes.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions and serve over steamed white or basmati rice.

Pro Tip: Prefer a slightly crispier texture? Broil the shredded chicken for 2-3 minutes before mixing it back into the sauce.

Recipe Variations and Substitutes

Looking to customize your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken? Here are some great ideas:

• No bourbon? Substitute apple juice or chicken broth for an alcohol-free option.
• Chicken breast: Use cubed chicken breast for a leaner alternative; reduce cooking time slightly.
• Add sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds make a delicious garnish for added crunch.
• Ketchup: A tablespoon of ketchup adds a tangy twist.
• Pineapple juice: Swap bourbon for pineapple juice to create a tropical flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I use instead of bourbon in the bourbon chicken recipe?
Apple juice is an excellent substitute that keeps the sweet and tangy flavor intact while making the dish alcohol-free. Chicken broth is another good option.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works just as well. Just cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Note that breasts can cook faster and tend to be less moist than thighs.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Is this bourbon chicken recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but the spice level is very manageable. If you prefer no spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes.

What are some good side dishes to serve with bourbon chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice (white or basmati) and stir-fried or steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Can I make this bourbon chicken ahead of time?
Yes. Cook it as directed, then store in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve—perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Are there any variations to the bourbon chicken recipe that I can try for a different flavor?
Add ketchup for a tangy depth of flavor. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. Use hoisin sauce or pineapple juice for a fun twist.

How to Store and Freeze

Refrigerator: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Bourbon Chicken

• Steamed basmati rice (or any rice of choice)
• Garlic butter noodles
• Stir-fried vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or bok choy
• A fresh green salad with sesame-ginger dressing

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, try these other comforting and flavorful dishes:

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Final Tips from My Kitchen

Always serve this dish over rice to soak up every bit of the delicious bourbon sauce.
For an extra kick, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes on top before serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds to add a pop of color and texture.

Pin This Recipe for Later

Love this recipe? Pin it to your Slow Cooker Recipes board on Pinterest to share with others and save for easy reference.

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Let me know in the comments how yours turned out, and don’t forget to give it a five-star rating!

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