Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and fuss-free dinner option, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is not only super easy to prepare but also incredibly tasty. It’s one of those meals that fills your home with the most inviting aromas as it simmers away in the slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this melt-in-your-mouth chicken, it will become a favorite at your table!

This dish has a special place in my heart because it combines simple ingredients to create a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with rice. Plus, the fact that it cooks all day while you’re busy is just the cherry on top!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep, you can set this dish to cook and forget about it until dinnertime.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This crockpot bourbon chicken is perfect for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats every piece of chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed veggies—there are so many ways to enjoy this dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather what we need for this delightful meal.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup bourbon (or substitute with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For Thickening the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is getting creative! Here are some fun variations you can try with this recipe:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. They will work just as well!
• Add some spice: Throw in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Make it veggie-friendly: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or cubed tofu for a plant-based version.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with different types of sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs generously with Kosher salt and pepper. This step adds essential flavor to the meat itself before we introduce it to our delicious sauce. Place the seasoned thighs at the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together 1/3 cup bourbon, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Stir well until everything is combined. Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken in your crockpot. This sauce will impart all its wonderful flavors into the chicken as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook It Right

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours. Cooking slowly allows those flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that your chicken becomes tender and juicy.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix together 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water. Whisk this slurry into your crockpot sauce. This step is crucial as it transforms your lovely liquid into a thick glaze that clings perfectly to each piece of chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is cooked through and fragrant, serve your crockpot bourbon chicken over rice. Don’t forget to garnish with some freshly chopped green onions for added color and crunch. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is sure to become a go-to dish in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you know some helpful tricks to make your dish even better!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless skinless chicken thighs is key, as they remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. A little less sugar can balance the richness of the soy sauce and bourbon alternative while still providing that lovely glaze.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: Adding a cornstarch slurry towards the end thickens your sauce beautifully, giving it a rich texture that clings perfectly to each piece of chicken.

• Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of fruit juice or different spices like ginger or red pepper flakes. This can add depth and a unique twist to your dish!

• Prep ahead: You can season your chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, making meal prep a breeze!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile! Here are some great ideas for presenting your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken that will surely impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that contrast beautifully with the rich sauce.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives an elegant touch and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the sauce perfectly, making it a classic choice that complements every bite.

• Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli balances out the sweetness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken.

• Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, garlic bread is an indulgent option that soaks up any leftover sauce on your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken will be an unforgettable meal that’s sure to delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every moment spent savoring this delicious dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without the fuss on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken:

Can I make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken without bourbon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth for a delicious alternative that keeps the flavor intact.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken takes about 4 hours on low or 3 hours on high. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

What can I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. You can also add steamed vegetables for a balanced meal!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts. Keep in mind that they may cook faster than thighs, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How do I thicken the sauce?

You can thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe as delightful as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!