Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

A Sweet, Savory, and Effortless Slow-Cooked Delight

Introduction

If you love the rich, sweet-savory flavors of takeout-style chicken dishes but want a simple, hands-off recipe, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is your answer. This dish delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful bourbon-infused sauce that’s slightly sweet, lightly tangy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of spice.

Traditionally found in restaurants and often associated with “sticky” Asian-inspired dishes, bourbon chicken has gained popularity for its irresistible flavor combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and—of course—bourbon. When prepared in a slow cooker, the sauce develops deep, caramelized notes while the chicken cooks to tender perfection, all with minimal effort.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a comforting weekend dinner, this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fluffy noodles, or even roasted vegetables. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a restaurant!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces – Thighs are ideal for slow cooking because they stay tender and juicy.
• 1/2 cup soy sauce – Adds savory depth; low-sodium soy sauce can be used to control salt.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – Creates the signature sweetness and caramelization.
• 1/4 cup bourbon – Provides a subtle, aromatic richness that defines this dish.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup – Adds tangy balance to the sweet-salty sauce.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Adds a mild acidity to brighten the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory base notes.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Provides warmth and a hint of spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a subtle heat for those who enjoy spice.

Thickening Slurry

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water – Mixed with cornstarch to thicken the sauce after slow cooking.

Garnish and Serving

• 2 green onions, sliced – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Cooked rice – White rice is classic, but brown rice or jasmine rice also works beautifully.

Step-by-Step Method

This recipe is designed for simplicity, ensuring tender, flavorful results every time.

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Optional: Lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

2. Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Bourbon
• Ketchup
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Ground ginger
• Red pepper flakes (if using)

Mix until the sugar begins to dissolve and the sauce is smooth.

3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Place the chicken pieces in the Crock Pot.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated.
3. Cover with the lid.

4. Slow Cook

• Cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
• During cooking, the sauce will thicken slightly and coat the chicken beautifully.

5. Thicken the Sauce

For a thicker, restaurant-style glaze:

1. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry.
2. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker.
3. Cook on High for an additional 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

6. Serve

• Spoon the bourbon chicken over freshly cooked rice.
• Garnish with sliced green onions for color and freshness.
• Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.

Tips for Success

1. Use Chicken Thighs
   • Thighs are ideal because they remain tender and flavorful during slow cooking. Chicken breasts can dry out in the Crock Pot.
2. Adjust Sweetness and Heat
   • Add extra brown sugar for a sweeter glaze, or increase red pepper flakes if you like a spicier dish.
3. Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
   • Helps control the salt content, as the slow cooker can concentrate flavors over hours.
4. Bourbon Options
   • Use your favorite bourbon, but avoid flavored varieties, which can change the profile of the dish.
5. Preventing a Thin Sauce
   • For a thicker sauce, use the cornstarch slurry or reduce the sauce slightly in a saucepan after slow cooking.
6. Meal Prep Friendly
   • This recipe reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve over steamed jasmine or white rice to soak up the sticky sauce.
• Noodle Bowl: Toss with egg noodles for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Vegetable Side: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, green beans, or bok choy.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a lighter dish.
• Meal Prep: Portion chicken and rice into containers for an easy week of lunches or dinners.

Flavor Variations

1. Honey Bourbon Chicken
   • Substitute 2 tablespoons of brown sugar with honey for a richer, floral sweetness.
2. Spicy Bourbon Chicken
   • Add a teaspoon of sriracha or more red pepper flakes for a kick.
3. Garlic-Infused Glaze
   • Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for more aromatic depth.
4. Asian Fusion Twist
   • Add 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce or sesame oil to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickened too much.

Nutritional Highlights (Approx. per Serving – 4 servings)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 780 mg (using low-sodium soy sauce)

These values may vary depending on portion size and choice of rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but breasts may dry out in the slow cooker. Cook on Low for less time or cut into smaller pieces to avoid overcooking.

Q2: Can I make this dish without bourbon?
Yes, substitute apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q3: How do I make the sauce thicker?
Use a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water) and cook on High for 15–20 minutes.

Q4: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes. Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Q6: How do I prevent the sauce from being too sweet?
Balance the sweetness with a splash more apple cider vinegar or reduce the brown sugar slightly.

Q7: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

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Conclusion

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooker ensures tender, juicy chicken infused with a rich, caramelized bourbon sauce. Served over rice and garnished with green onions, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or any time you crave a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself, this bourbon chicken recipe delivers flavor, convenience, and satisfaction in every bite. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your slow cooker repertoire.