Make Irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken for Dinner Tonight!

Craving a mouthwatering chicken dish that’s bursting with bold, sweet, and savory flavors? Look no further than the irresistible Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken! This easy-to-prepare recipe transforms humble chicken thighs into a tender, saucy masterpiece that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. By slow-cooking the chicken in a irresistible bourbon-infused sauce, you’ll end up with a dish that’s simply out of this world.

Table of Contents

The Allure of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

The beauty of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken lies in its simplicity and incredible flavor. The slow-cooking process allows the chicken to become meltingly tender, while the sauce has time to develop a rich, caramelized taste that’s simply addictive. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and bourbon creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a touch of heat from the red pepper flakes.

What’s more, using a slow cooker to prepare this dish means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time to tackle other tasks or simply relax while the aroma of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken fills your kitchen. It’s the ultimate hands-off meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1/4 cup water (optional, as needed)

The key ingredients in this recipe are the soy sauce, brown sugar, and bourbon, which create a perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce. The cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce, while the red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat. Garlic and ginger provide aromatic depth, rounding out the flavors for an exceptional Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

1. Season and Arrange Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season them lightly with salt and pepper, if desired.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, red pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger until well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out slightly.
3. Cook in the Crock Pot: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is fully coated. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Thicken and Finish: If the sauce is too thin, you can shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce in the slow cooker. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to thicken up.
5. Serve: Spoon the delicious Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with chopped scallions or parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most tender and flavorful results. The dark meat stays moist and juicy even after hours of slow cooking.
• Adjust Flavors to Taste: Feel free to play with the ratios of soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes to suit your personal preferences. You can also add a splash of bourbon for an extra punch of flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken, as cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. The chicken should be tender and cooked through, but not overcooked.
• Get Creative with Leftovers: Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken makes an excellent base for a variety of dishes. Shredded leftovers can be used in sandwiches, tacos, or even over a bed of greens for a delicious salad.

Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic pairing, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You could also try it with roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans, for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

If you’re looking to feed a crowd, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken makes an excellent main dish for a potluck or family gathering. Serve it in a chafing dish or slow cooker, and let your guests help themselves. Don’t forget to provide some crusty bread or rolls for sopping up all that delicious sauce.

Variations of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

While the classic Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:

• Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken: For a quicker version, you can easily adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Cook the chicken on high pressure for 12-15 minutes, then shred and return to the sauce to thicken.
• Stovetop Bourbon Chicken: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can also prepare this dish on the stovetop. Sear the chicken in a large skillet, then add the sauce and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
• Gluten-Free Bourbon Chicken: Swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Low-Sugar Bourbon Chicken: Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce or use a sugar-free sweetener to cut down on the overall sugar content.
• Spicy Bourbon Chicken: For an extra kick of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Bourbon BBQ Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
• Maple Bourbon Bacon Glazed Meatball Subs
• Bourbon Maple Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Rolls

FAQs about Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

How can I make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken spicier?

To add more spice to your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add minced fresh chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, smoked paprika can enhance the heat without overpowering the dish. Start with small amounts, taste, and adjust according to your preference to avoid making it too spicy too quickly.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily than thighs during cooking. To prevent this, you might want to reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure they are well-coated with sauce. If you choose to use chicken breasts, consider adding a little more liquid to the sauce to maintain moisture.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken besides rice?

Besides rice, you can serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken with a variety of sides. Some great alternatives include steamed vegetables, quinoa, or couscous for a different grain option. You could also pair it with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal or serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option. Creative options like lettuce wraps or in a sandwich can also elevate the dish.

How do I store and reheat leftovers of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

To store leftovers, allow the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three to four days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or reheat it gently on the stovetop with a little splash of water or broth to keep it moist. If reheating in the microwave, do so in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without drying it out.

Savor the Flavors of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

With its irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and just a touch of heat, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The convenience of the slow cooker makes it an easy weeknight option, while the mouthwatering flavors make it a crowd-pleasing choice for any occasion. Get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of this saucy, tender chicken dish – your taste buds will thank you!

For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Print