This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a sweet and savory delight that’s perfect for busy nights when you crave comfort food without the hassle. The rich bourbon-infused glaze complements the tender chicken thighs, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether served over a bed of fluffy white rice or paired with crisp steamed vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work, making it an effortless choice for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Cooked white rice or steamed vegetables, for serving
Directions:
- Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined, then pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce in the crockpot and stir to thicken. Cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the chicken to the crockpot, stir to coat with the sauce, and serve hot over rice or steamed vegetables.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
A Delectable Twist on Comfort Food: Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a dish with rich roots and even richer flavors. It originated as a fusion of Chinese-inspired flavors with a Southern twist, named after Bourbon Street in New Orleans. This dish combines the bold sweetness of brown sugar and bourbon with the tang of apple cider vinegar and the umami depth of soy sauce. What results is a tantalizing glaze that coats tender, slow-cooked chicken to perfection.
This recipe stands out as a beloved staple because it hits all the right notes—sweet, savory, tangy, and slightly spicy. The convenience of the crockpot adds to its appeal, as you can set it up and forget about it while the slow cooker works its magic. Perfect for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who craves a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish is a game-changer.
Why Choose Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?
- Convenience at Its Best
The slow cooker does the heavy lifting in this recipe. With minimal prep time, you can toss all the ingredients into the crockpot, turn it on, and walk away. Whether you’re a busy parent, a professional with little time to cook, or someone who simply enjoys a hassle-free meal, this recipe ensures you get maximum flavor with minimal effort. - Mouthwatering Flavors
The bourbon adds a subtle richness that elevates the dish, blending beautifully with the brown sugar’s caramel-like sweetness and the soy sauce’s umami depth. The garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes round out the flavor profile with just the right amount of spice and warmth. It’s a symphony of flavors in every bite. - Perfectly Tender Chicken
The slow-cooking process ensures the chicken thighs stay moist and tender, practically falling apart with every bite. Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they’re naturally juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, making them the perfect vehicle for the sticky-sweet sauce. - Budget-Friendly
This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Chicken thighs are also an economical protein choice, and the dish feeds a crowd, making it a great option for families or gatherings. - Versatile Pairings
Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce, or pair it with roasted or steamed vegetables for a lighter option. You can even shred the chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a creative twist on leftovers.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Balanced Flavors Without Overindulgence: The dish balances sweet and savory elements without being overly heavy, making it satisfying yet not overwhelming.
- Customizable Spice Levels: The optional red pepper flakes let you adjust the heat to suit your taste, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.
- Minimal Fat: By using lean chicken thighs and cooking them in a crockpot, you avoid the need for additional fats, making this dish a healthier comfort food option.
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
- Choose Quality Bourbon: While you don’t need to splurge on high-end bourbon, choosing a mid-range brand ensures the flavor comes through without being harsh. The bourbon is essential for the dish’s depth, so don’t skip it!
- Don’t Skip the Thickening Step: Adding the cornstarch slurry at the end is what gives the sauce its glossy, irresistible texture. Be sure to allow enough time for the sauce to thicken properly.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a few extra minutes, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This step isn’t necessary but can enhance the flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in the final taste of the dish. Pre-minced garlic or powdered ginger can be convenient but won’t provide the same aromatic punch.
- Double the Sauce: If you’re serving this dish with rice or veggies, consider doubling the sauce ingredients. The extra sauce makes a delicious topping that everyone will want more of!
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a meal prep session for the week, or a dish to impress guests at a gathering, Crockpot Bourbon Chicken fits the bill. Its bold flavors are crowd-pleasers, and its simplicity makes it a favorite for cooks of all skill levels.
For meal preppers, this recipe holds up wonderfully in the fridge and reheats like a dream, making it a go-to for busy weekdays. It’s also versatile enough to fit into various cuisines—pair it with stir-fried vegetables for an Asian-inspired meal, or serve it alongside cornbread and greens for a Southern comfort vibe.
A Fun Twist on Leftovers
Don’t let any of this delicious dish go to waste! Crockpot Bourbon Chicken leftovers can be transformed into several new meals:
- Bourbon Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken and load it into soft tortillas with a crunchy slaw and drizzle of sauce.
- Bourbon Chicken Fried Rice: Chop up the chicken and toss it with rice, scrambled eggs, and veggies for a quick and flavorful fried rice.
- Bourbon Chicken Sliders: Pile the chicken onto mini buns with a slice of pickled onion or coleslaw for a fun party snack.
Conclusion
Crockpot Bourbon Chicken isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. From its rich flavors to its easy preparation, it’s no wonder this dish has become a beloved favorite in many households. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors hits every craving, while the convenience of a slow cooker makes it accessible to everyone. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a touch of elegance thanks to its bourbon-infused glaze. Add it to your recipe rotation, and watch it become a staple in your home, too!