Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce. The bourbon adds depth, while the brown sugar and soy sauce create a beautiful caramelization that is simply irresistible. Its inviting aroma fills your kitchen, and the glossy, golden-brown color makes it an appealing dish for any gathering. Serve it during a cozy family dinner or at your next gathering, and impress your guests with minimal effort!

The flavors in this dish come alive as the chicken slowly cooks to perfection, soaking up the delicious sauce. You can look forward to discovering how to prepare this simple yet flavorful meal, exploring the necessary ingredients, and learning how to serve it beautifully. Let’s dive into the details and get started on making this fantastic Crockpot Bourbon Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Each ingredient is simple and wholesome, ensuring a delicious result.
Ease of Preparation: Toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work—no fuss!
Nutrition: Using boneless chicken thighs offers a great protein source while being flavorful.
Versatility: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even in sandwiches—perfect for any occasion!
Presentation: The rich sauce and caramelized chicken look stunning on any plate.

You’ll find that this recipe is quick to embrace and satisfying to share with your loved ones.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 6-8 hours
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken starts with selecting the right ingredients for an irresistible flavor profile.

Main Protein

Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect because they remain moist and tender during slow cooking.
Preparation: Cut them into large chunks to ensure even cooking, and season lightly with Kosher salt.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken breasts can work, although they may dry out a little more.
Tip: Always use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.

Liquids/Dairy

Bourbon or Alternatives: Bourbon gives a rich flavor, but whiskey, apple juice, or chicken broth can be used.
Preparation: Pour the liquid over the chicken once all the ingredients are in the crockpot.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, apple cider vinegar may add some tanginess without alcohol.
Tip: The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind the deep flavor, so don’t skip this step!

Seasoning/Spice Blend

Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce: These create the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.
Preparation: Measure carefully, as these are key to the dish’s flavor.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Tip: Adjust the sugar for your preferred sweetness; more sugar equals a thicker sauce.

Aromatics & Vegetables

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a robust flavor and aroma.
Preparation: Add it to the crockpot along with chicken and sauce ingredients.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, garlic powder works as well, using about 1/2 teaspoon.
Tip: Use fresh garlic for optimal flavor—don’t skip it!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a breeze, and you’ll love how easy the one-pan nature makes this dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into large pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up the sauce perfectly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, mix together 1/3 cup of bourbon, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well to create a flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Once combined, add the chicken pieces and toss them in the sauce until well-coated. This step ensures every piece absorbs the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The chicken should be tender and falling apart by the end of this time.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

30 minutes before serving, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the sauce for a thicker consistency.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, check if the chicken easily pulls apart with a fork.

Step 7: Serve it Up

Once cooked, serve the chicken with the sauce over rice or noodles. Enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the glossy sauce.
Accompaniments: Pair with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Portions: Aim for 4-6 ounces of chicken per person, depending on appetite.
Beverage Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Enjoy this dish as a centerpiece of your meals and watch your family dig in!

Additional Tips

Enhance flavor by adding a tablespoon of ginger for a spicy kick.
Customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.
Serve with fresh herbs like green onions for added color and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Teriyaki Bourbon Chicken: Replace soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, thicker glaze.
Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to increase the heat level.
Citrus Bourbon Chicken: Mix orange juice with bourbon for a zesty twist that brightens the dish.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For best quality, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Crockpot or slow cooker
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife
Mixing bowl
Serving dishes

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them before cooking. Frozen chicken may not cook evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, just choose gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it in the crockpot, refrigerate it, and cook it later.

Can I customize the flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or marinades that suit your taste.

Is there another cooking method?
Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 1.5 hours, covered, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a fantastic dish that beautifully combines simple ingredients into a mouth-watering meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers deep flavors and sumptuous textures. Give it a try, and enjoy the sweet and savory experience it brings to your table!