There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to the inviting aroma of slow-cooked goodness wafting through the house. When the hustle of daily life leaves you craving a satisfying meal without the fuss, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken becomes your go-to solution. Tender chicken thighs bathed in a bourbon-infused sauce create an irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
I discovered this remarkable dish on a particularly busy weeknight when takeout just wasn’t an option. The slow cooker saved the day, transforming simple ingredients into a flavorful feast with minimal effort. You can easily adjust spices, toss in your favorite veggies, or swap ingredients to make it your own while still enjoying the incredible essence of bourbon. This recipe isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about bringing warmth and joy to your dining experience. So let’s dive into this easy, mouthwatering creation that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Why is Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken So Popular?
Effortless weeknight dinners: Easily prepare this dish ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Savory flavors abound: The bourbon-infused sauce combines sweet and savory notes, creating a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or toss in veggies, making it unique to your palate or dietary preferences.
Perfect for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, allowing for quick lunches or easy reheats throughout the week.
Add variety: Try incorporating bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
If you’re interested in more weeknight meal ideas, be sure to check out our collection of easy slow cooker recipes!
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Provides protein and flavor; you can substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option, but thighs remain juicier when slow-cooked.
For the Sauce
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates a sticky sauce; substitute with brown sugar or honey if preferred.
• Soy Sauce – Supplies umami flavor and saltiness; use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
• Bourbon Whiskey – Contributes a rich depth of flavor; for a non-alcoholic version, apple juice, apple cider, or a mixture of water and vanilla extract can work well.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances sweetness with acidity; no noticeable substitute necessary.
• Ground Ginger – Enhances flavor profiles; fresh ginger can be used for a more robust flavor.
• Honey – Adds sweetness and thickness to the sauce; maple syrup can serve as an alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Provides heat; adjust to taste or omit for a milder version.
• Garlic (minced) – Infuses depth and aroma into the dish; garlic powder is a suitable alternative if fresh is not available.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch & Water – Used for thickening the sauce; ensure to mix well and adjust amounts for desired thickness.
For Garnish
• Chopped Green Onions – Adds color and a fresh crunch; place generously over your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken before serving.
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
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Prep the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will serve as a flavorful base for your bourbon-infused sauce.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Pour the Sauce: Gently pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
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Cook It Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
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Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. This texture enhances the dish.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker, then return the shredded chicken and mix well.
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Finish Cooking: Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking, adding more cornstarch if necessary for an even thicker sauce.
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Serve and Garnish: Spoon the delicious crock pot bourbon chicken over rice and garnish generously with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Optional: Add sesame seeds for extra crunch and visual appeal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days, allowing flavors to meld and deepen for indulgent lunches or quick reheats.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Label them with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Use the microwave or stovetop on low heat, adding a splash of water or extra bourbon to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Wrapping: For best results, ensure the chicken is completely cooled before wrapping, which helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the savory taste.
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious dish and create a version your family will love even more!
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Veggie-Packed: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a colorful boost of nutrition and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or toss in fresh jalapeños for a delightful, fiery twist. The added heat complements the sweetness beautifully!
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Bourbon Boost: Want a stronger bourbon flavor? Increase the amount to ½ cup, and slightly reduce soy sauce for a more pronounced essence.
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Honey-Free: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness level, adding a hint of warmth and complexity.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic touch that enhances depth in every bite.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
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Less Sodium: Swap in low-sodium soy sauce and use less salt to create a heart-healthier version that still packs a flavor punch.
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Slow-cooked BBQ: Add a splash of your favorite BBQ sauce to the mix for a sweet and tangy flavor that will make this dish a hit.
Let your culinary creativity shine and adapt this recipe to fit your tastes—your family will appreciate your delicious efforts!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh chicken thighs and quality bourbon will elevate the dish significantly.
- Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time to prevent overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, diminishing the dish’s appeal.
- Thickening the Sauce: To achieve your desired sauce thickness, gradually add more cornstarch slurry while the sauce is simmering. This allows better control and prevents lumps.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or even a splash of orange juice for a unique twist on your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and even taste better the next day as the flavors meld. Plus, they are perfect for quick lunches!
Make Ahead Options
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a fantastic dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent any browning. If you wish to include cooked vegetables, add those right before slow cooking to keep them crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just add the chicken to the slow cooker with the sauce and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours. This method ensures your dinner is ready with minimal last-minute effort while still being just as delicious!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
Nothing completes a meal quite like the ideal sides, enhancing the rich flavors created by the slow cooker.
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Fluffy White Rice: Perfect for soaking up the delicious bourbon-infused sauce. Its neutral flavor lets the chicken shine.
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Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with garlic, these add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate, balancing the dish beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smoothness of mashed potatoes provides a comforting texture. Their buttery richness complements the savory notes of the chicken.
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Sesame Broccoli Salad: A cool, crunchy salad with a sesame dressing brings brightness and a hint of nuttiness. It also adds a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken.
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Coleslaw: The crispness and tang of coleslaw contrast perfectly with the sweet and savory chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Honey Butter Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread offers a delightful bite, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
Looking for something sweet to finish the meal? Pair with a light, creamy dessert like vanilla ice cream or a fruit tart for a satisfying end to your dinner.
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, I recommend using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs. They provide a juicy texture that complements the slow cooking process beautifully. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may not be as tender. When selecting chicken, look for pieces that are plump and have a bright pink color—avoid any with dark spots or an off smell.
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What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! After enjoying your delicious Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, store leftovers in airtight containers. They’ll last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can even enjoy them cold in a salad or mixed into a wrap for lunch! Just ensure the chicken is cooled completely before transferring it to the containers to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish freezes exceptionally well. After it cools, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Label each bag with the date for easy reference. When you’re ready to enjoy a serving, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of liquid to restore its moisture.
What should I do if the sauce isn’t thick enough?
No worries at all! If you find that your sauce is on the thinner side, creating a cornstarch slurry is the perfect solution. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Let it cook on high for an additional 5-10 minutes until you achieve the desired thickness. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning afterward!
Is this recipe safe for individuals with dietary restrictions?
Very! If you have allergies, it’s best to use caution with our ingredient list. For those avoiding gluten, swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free variety such as tamari. If you’re looking to omit alcohol entirely, you can replace bourbon with apple juice or a mixture of water and vanilla extract for a similar sweet flavor profile. Always double-check ingredient labels, and feel free to adjust the recipe based on personal preferences and dietary needs.
How can I add additional vegetables to this dish?
The more the merrier! For a colorful and nutritious boost, consider adding bell peppers, snap peas, or sliced carrots to your slow cooker. Add these vegetables alongside the chicken and sauce during the initial cooking phase. They will meld with the flavors beautifully and still have a slight crunch when served. Just be mindful that too many vegetables may change the sauce’s consistency, so you might need to adjust the liquid accordingly.
Savory Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken for Effortless Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Gently pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker, then return the shredded chicken and mix well.
- Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Spoon the delicious crock pot bourbon chicken over rice and garnish generously with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.