This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is super easy and packed with flavor! With tender chicken cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce, it’s a dish that makes dinner feel special without all the fuss.
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is enough to make anyone hungry! I love serving it over rice, and trust me, you’ll want a little extra sauce to drizzle on top. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they might dry out a bit more during cooking.
Bourbon Whiskey: The bourbon adds a rich flavor to the sauce. If you want a non-alcoholic option, substitute with extra apple cider vinegar or a splash of apple juice for sweetness, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives this dish its salty and umami kick. For a gluten-free version, you can swap it with tamari or coconut aminos to keep the flavor balanced.
Brown Sugar: Standard brown sugar works great, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the quantity slightly as they are often sweeter.
Garnishes: Green onions and sesame seeds really finish this dish off. If you don’t have these on hand, fresh chopped parsley can be a nice alternative, though it won’t have the same flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked chicken in this crock pot recipe is to focus on the timing. Generally, it cooks well on low for 4-6 hours. If you’re on a tighter schedule, using the high setting for 2-3 hours works, just check it a bit earlier.
- Always ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- When it’s done, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer.
- Finally, after adding the cornstarch slurry, let it cook uncovered for a while to really thicken that sauce. This helps prevent the sauce from being too runny.
Making sure to follow these tips will help you have a delicious result every time! Enjoy your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken!
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 4-6 hours of cooking time on low, or 2-3 hours on high in your crock pot. You’ll want about 30 minutes extra at the end to thicken the sauce. So, if you plan ahead, this is a super easy dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes it easy to serve later. Place the pieces directly into the crock pot.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Keep mixing until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and everything is well combined.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crock pot, ensuring all the pieces are well-coated. This is where all the magic happens!
4. Set It to Cook:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and tender. If you can, avoid lifting the lid; it’ll keep all the flavors inside!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crock pot to help thicken the sauce. Recovery and let it cook uncovered on high for an additional 20-30 minutes to get the sauce to your preferred consistency.
6. Serve It Up:
Once your chicken is ready, it’s time to serve! Scoop the bourbon chicken over a bed of cooked white rice for a complete meal.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
Before serving, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is perfect for any night of the week and will surely impress your family or guests. Enjoy the savory flavors and ease of this delightful dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to cook it on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the regular cooking times. Just ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Absolutely! If you find the sauce too sweet for your taste, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or add a bit more soy sauce for a saltier balance. Taste as you go to find the perfect flavor for you!
What Should I Serve with Bourbon Chicken?
This dish is delicious served over cooked white rice, but you can also try it with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or even noodles for a different twist. Don’t forget the garnish to elevate the presentation!
