Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking for an easy, delicious meal that will make your kitchen smell amazing, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is a family favorite in my house. The tender chicken thighs soak up a sweet, savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. Trust me, it’s one of those recipes that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do its thing while you focus on other activities. You’ll love how simple and satisfying it is to serve up this melt-in-your-mouth chicken over rice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just season the chicken, mix the sauce ingredients, and let the crockpot work its magic.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavors of this dish – even picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just set it and forget it.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a rich glaze that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with rice, noodles, or veggies to suit your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our delightful Crockpot Bourbon Chicken. You might already have many of these staples in your pantry!

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and pepper, (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup bourbon substitute (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

One of the best things about this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add some heat: Include red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick that balances out the sweetness.
• Throw in some veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the sweetness: Experiment with honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken thighs with kosher salt and pepper on both sides. This step adds essential flavor right from the beginning. Place them at the bottom of your crockpot; they will soak up all those delicious juices as they cook.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine your bourbon substitute, brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until everything is blended together nicely. This sauce is what makes our Crockpot Bourbon Chicken so special! Pour this mixture over the seasoned chicken in your crockpot.

Step 3: Cook It Up

Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours. The low-and-slow method brings out incredible flavors while keeping your chicken juicy and tender. It’s hard to resist opening that lid just to take a whiff of what’s cooking – but try to wait!

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Whisk this slurry into your sauce in the crockpot to thicken it up nicely. This step ensures each bite is coated with that luscious glaze we all love.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is cooked through, serve your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions if you like; they add a fresh crunch that complements the dish perfectly! Enjoy every delicious bite with your loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Making the perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is all about those little details that can elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some pro tips to help you get the most out of this delightful recipe:

• Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, which makes them perfect for slow cooking. Their higher fat content ensures that they remain tender and succulent throughout the cooking process.

• Marinate overnight: If you have the time, marinating the chicken in the sauce overnight can enhance the flavors even further. This allows the chicken to absorb all that delicious brown sugar and soy sauce goodness before it cooks.

• Add vegetables: For a complete meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to your crockpot. They will soak up the sauce’s flavor while adding extra nutrition and color to your dish.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute. This way, you can customize the dish to suit your taste preferences without sacrificing flavor.

• Save leftovers for lunch: This dish makes excellent leftovers! Pack it in containers with brown rice or quinoa for an easy and delicious lunch option that you’ll look forward to.

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Serving Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is as enjoyable as preparing it. The sweet and savory sauce over tender chicken creates an inviting presentation that’s sure to impress family and friends. Here are some ideas on how to serve this scrumptious dish:

Garnishes

• Green onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can provide a nutty flavor and beautiful visual appeal, making your dish look even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
• Garlic sautéed green beans: These crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic offer a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken while adding bright color to your plate.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of bourbon chicken, creating a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that balances out the sweetness of the bourbon sauce, making it an ideal side for this dish.

Enjoy creating your own version of this classic recipe! Your family will love how easy it is to prepare such a satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making busy nights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to keep the sauce with the chicken to retain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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 that keeps this dish family-friendly.

How long does Crockpot Bourbon Chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. However, keep an eye on cooking time as breasts may cook faster than thighs.

What should I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

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

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is perfect for meal prep and can be stored and reheated easily throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Crockpot Bourbon Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a casual gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor each bite!