Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner that the whole family will love, then my Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in our home because it is so simple to prepare and yields tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish truly shines when paired with rice to soak up all that savory goodness.

What I adore about this recipe is how it fills the house with warm aromas as it cooks. You can set it up in the morning, forget about it for a few hours, and come home to a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this melt-in-your-mouth treat, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just season the chicken, mix the sauce, and let your crockpot do the rest!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its sweet and savory flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; it’s great for leftovers too!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates an irresistible glaze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or with your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, you won’t need anything fancy—just some pantry staples and fresh chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

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)

To Thicken

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
• Add vegetables: Toss in sliced bell peppers or onions during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick.
• Change the sweetness: Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar for a unique twist.

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs generously with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavor of the chicken right from the start. Place them at the bottom of your crockpot where they can soak up all that delicious sauce!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon (or your chosen substitute), 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Stir well until everything is mixed together—you want those flavors to meld beautifully! Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken in your crockpot.

Step 3: Cook

Cover your crockpot with its lid and choose either low heat for 4 hours or high heat for 3 hours. Cooking slowly allows those wonderful flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply while keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. This slurry will help thicken our sauce. Stir it into the crockpot; as it cooks further, you’ll notice that lovely glaze forming!

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once cooked through, serve this delightful Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for that fresh touch—your family will be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Cooking is all about enjoying the process, and these tips will help you create an even more delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken!

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken thighs will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure the meat remains tender and juicy after cooking.

• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar. This way, you can customize the dish to suit your taste while still enjoying that rich flavor profile.

• Experiment with Marinades: For added depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking. This allows the ingredients to infuse into the meat, resulting in an even more delightful dish.

• Add Vegetables: Consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or onions in the last hour of cooking. They’ll add texture and nutrition, making your dish even more wholesome.

• Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have leftovers, shred the chicken and use it in tacos, salads, or wraps for a quick and tasty meal!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Serving your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken beautifully can transform a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These provide a fresh crunch that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
• Fresh Cilantro: For those who love herbs, cilantro can brighten up your dish with its vibrant color and taste.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs all that delicious sauce beautifully, making it a perfect pairing.

• Sautéed Broccoli: Lightly sautéed broccoli offers a crisp contrast to the tender chicken while adding a pop of color to your plate.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic pair wonderfully with this saucy chicken, perfect for soaking up all those flavors.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw on the side adds crunchiness and balances out the sweetness of the bourbon sauce.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier when you store it properly!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
• You can also use the microwave; just cover and heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish.

Can I make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth for a flavorful alternative.

How do I thicken the sauce for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and add it to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What can I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Cooking on low takes about 4 hours, while cooking on high will take around 3 hours. Perfect for a busy day!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Happy cooking!