Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that will warm your heart and fill your home with a delightful aroma, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is one of those recipes that feels like a big hug on a plate. The tender chicken thighs simmer in a luscious brown sugar sauce all day, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds (or thirds!) once they taste this melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

What I adore about this recipe is how incredibly easy it is. Just toss everything into the crockpot, and let it do its magic while you go about your day. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set this meal up and forget about it until dinner.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and savory sauce is a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Meal: Cook it in advance, then reheat for an effortless dinner option during hectic weeks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or with your favorite vegetables — it’s delicious any way you serve it!
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish brings warmth and comfort, making any dining experience feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! They come together beautifully to create that rich flavor profile everyone craves. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things fresh:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer, use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add some heat: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little spice in your life!
• Mix in veggies: Add chopped bell peppers or onions to the crockpot for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce in place of soy sauce for unique twists!

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken thighs generously with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential as it enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Once seasoned, place them at the bottom of your crockpot — this sets up the base for all that deliciousness to follow.

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 cloves minced garlic. Stir well to mix everything together thoroughly. Pour this lovely mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. The combination of sweet and savory will create an irresistible sauce as it cooks!

Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours or high for 3 hours. Cooking slowly allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. You’re going to love walking into your home as those wonderful aromas fill the air!

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix together 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth, then stir this slurry into your sauce in the crockpot. This will thicken up that delicious sauce just perfectly!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooking is complete, serve your delectable Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over fluffy rice, garnished with sliced green onions if desired. Your family will be raving about this dish long after dinner is done! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Making the perfect crockpot bourbon chicken is a breeze with just a few simple tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Choose the right chicken: Opting for boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts ensures that your dish stays moist and flavorful as they have a higher fat content which keeps them tender during cooking.

• Marinate for flavor: If you have extra time, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for an hour or two before cooking. This enhances the flavors and makes the chicken even more delicious.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. A little less can bring out more savory notes, while adding more can give it that sweet kick you might love.

• Thicken the sauce properly: Always whisk cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the crockpot. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce to coat your chicken perfectly.

• Leftovers are great: Don’t hesitate to double the recipe; leftovers make fantastic sandwiches or can be repurposed in stir-fries or salads for quick lunches throughout the week!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Serving up your delicious crockpot bourbon chicken can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds gives a nutty crunch and elevates the visual appeal of your meal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the savory bourbon sauce perfectly, making each bite delicious.
• Garlic sautéed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic provide a refreshing crunch and brighten up your plate.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread brings comfort and warmth to your meal, making it feel extra special on family dinner nights.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your flavorful crockpot bourbon chicken! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and ensure that your delicious chicken stays fresh.

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

• Portion the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken:

Can I use another liquid instead of bourbon in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth. Each alternative will add its unique flavor while keeping the dish delicious.

How do I know when my Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is done cooking?

The chicken should be tender and easy to shred when it’s finished cooking. If using a meat thermometer, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Is there a way to make this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken healthier?

Yes! You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, serving it with steamed vegetables instead of rice can make it lighter.

Can I double this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe?

Definitely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly for larger quantities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this tender and flavorful Crockpot Bourbon Chicken as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and coziness to any dinner table. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it during a family gathering, I’m sure it will be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!