Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! Recipe

If you’re searching for a flavorful, effortlessly delicious meal to add to your dinner rotation, then the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, slightly sweet bourbon sauce that simmers all day to make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or want a crowd-pleaser for the weekend, this slow-cooker wonder blends the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and just a hint of heat to keep everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each plays a vital role in creating the deep, comforting flavors and silky texture that make this dish so special. From the warmth of bourbon to the punch of garlic, every component comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker.

• 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Thighs stay juicy and tender throughout slow cooking, making them perfect for this recipe.
• 1 cup light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a subtle molasses note that balances the savory elements.
• 1 cup soy sauce: Adds a rich umami depth and saltiness to the sauce.
• ⅓ cup bourbon whiskey: Brings a smoky, caramel complexity that defines this dish’s character.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and a gentle tang to cut through the richness.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a warm, spicy undertone that complements the bourbon beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Enhances the overall sweetness with a natural floral touch.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat – feel free to adjust to taste.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with savory aroma and flavor.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce into a luscious coating for the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons water: Mixed with cornstarch to make a slurry for perfect sauce consistency.
• ¼ cup chopped green onions: Fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a mild onion crunch.

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Step 1: Prepare the chicken and sauce

Start by placing the trimmed chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients — brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic — until well combined. This aromatic blend forms the heart of your dish and will slowly infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Cook low and slow

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, cover your slow cooker, and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. During this time, the chicken will become melt-in-your-mouth tender, soaking up all the sweet and savory notes from the sauce.

Step 3: Shred or chop the chicken

Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred or chop it to your preferred consistency. This step helps distribute the sauce’s rich flavor throughout every bite and makes the dish easier to serve.

Step 4: Thicken the sauce

In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this mixture into the slow cooker and stir well to combine with the remaining sauce. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and cook uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, irresistible glaze.

Step 5: Final touch

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and fresh crunch. Your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is now ready to delight!

How to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Garnishes

To elevate your Bourbon Chicken, green onions are a wonderful finishing touch offering freshness and mild sharpness. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty flavor and beautiful texture contrast, or add thinly sliced fresh chilies if you crave a little more spice.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice to soak up the luscious sauce or brown rice for a nutty twist. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is perfect without losing any of the comfort factor. Steamed broccoli or sautéed snap peas bring a vibrant, healthy crunch that balances the dish’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and visually appealing presentation, mound the bourbon chicken over a bed of fluffy rice in pretty bowls and garnish with colorful herbs. If you want a handheld option, use the chicken as a filling in soft tortillas with crisp lettuce and a drizzle of sriracha mayo. You could even turn it into a rice bowl topped with avocado slices, pickled vegetables, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bourbon Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to keep the sauce thickened and the chicken well coated to retain moisture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes wonderfully. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs remain juicier and less prone to drying out in the slow cooker, chicken breasts can be used. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook a bit faster and become drier if overcooked.

How can I make the bourbon flavor stronger?

To boost the bourbon notes, try increasing the bourbon amount to ½ cup and slightly reduce the soy sauce to maintain balance. Remember, the slow cooking mellows the alcohol, leaving a rich depth behind.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes which add a mild, pleasant heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit them. For a kick, increase the flakes or add fresh chopped chilies when serving.

Can I make this on the stove instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! You can simmer the sauce and chicken in a covered pan on low heat for about an hour until the chicken is tender and sauce thickened, stirring occasionally. Just be sure to monitor it so the sauce doesn’t burn.

What are some good replacements for apple cider vinegar?

If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar or white wine vinegar are good substitutes and will still provide the right tangy balance to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so comforting and downright addictive about this recipe that makes the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! Whether it’s the tender chicken soaking up that perfectly balanced sauce or the ease of slow cooking while you go about your day, this dish simply delivers smiles at every meal. I can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking for a crave-worthy, crowd-pleasing dinner — give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your home!

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