Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a delicious, sweet, and savory dish that is incredibly easy to make in a slow cooker. The tender chicken simmers in a rich, flavorful sauce made with bourbon (or bourbon-flavored extract for a non-alcoholic version), soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and a variety of seasonings, creating a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for dinner with rice or pairing it with your favorite side dishes, this bourbon chicken is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers big on flavor. The chicken becomes tender and juicy while soaking up the sweet, tangy bourbon sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a perfect meal for busy days or when you want to prepare dinner in advance. Plus, the sauce is perfectly balanced, combining the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of brown sugar and a touch of spice. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete, comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

• 1/2 cup bourbon (or bourbon-flavored extract for a non-alcoholic version)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

• 1 tablespoon water (for cornstarch slurry)

• Cooked rice (for serving)

• Green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) into the crock pot. If you’re using boneless skinless thighs, there’s no need to chop them—they can cook whole.

2. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), apple cider vinegar, and ketchup. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

3. Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the crock pot, making sure the chicken is well coated.

4. Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If you’re using chicken breasts, check after 4 hours as they tend to cook faster than thighs.

5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the sauce and cook on high for the remaining time to thicken the sauce.

6. Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it with two forks in the crock pot and stir to coat the chicken in the sauce. Serve the bourbon chicken over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (depending on the type of chicken)

• Total Time: 4-6 hours

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

• Citrusy Bourbon Chicken: Add a tablespoon of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a citrusy twist.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative.

• Slow Cooker Bourbon Chicken with Veggies: Add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the crock pot along with the chicken for a one-pot meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the bourbon chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can use bourbon-flavored extract or substitute with apple juice or white grape juice for a similar sweetness.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. They may cook faster, so check them after 4 hours to avoid overcooking.

3. Can I cook this on high in the crock pot?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours if you’re short on time. Just be sure to check the chicken for doneness and make sure it’s tender and cooked through.

4. Can I freeze this bourbon chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the bourbon chicken after cooking. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to serve.

5. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a small chopped chili pepper to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.

6. How can I make this dish sweeter or less sweet?

You can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar to taste. For a sweeter version, increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar.

7. Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar as a substitute for brown sugar. Just adjust the amount based on the sweetness level you prefer.

8. Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this in an Instant Pot. Set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 10-12 minutes on high pressure, then perform a quick release. Shred the chicken and stir the sauce before serving.

9. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.

10. How do I serve this dish?

Serve this bourbon chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or with a side of roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious with a side of stir-fried vegetables or on top of a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a savory, sweet, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal with minimal effort. The bourbon-infused sauce gives the chicken a unique richness, while the slow cooker does all the work, ensuring a tender, juicy meal every time. Whether you’re serving it over rice or with a side of vegetables, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the deliciously rich flavors of bourbon chicken with the convenience of the slow cooker!

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