This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with tender chicken simmered in a rich, bourbon-infused glaze. The slow-cooked process ensures that every bite is infused with bold, comforting flavors, making it an ideal dish for cozy family dinners or meal prep.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even alongside roasted vegetables, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s an effortless way to bring a delicious, hearty meal to the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
- Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your crock pot.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the sauce in the crock pot. Cover and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, then return it to the crock pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Serve hot over rice or with your favorite side dishes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-7 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Recipe Background
Bourbon chicken has a rich history tied to its flavorful Southern roots, with its name stemming from Bourbon Street in New Orleans or the use of bourbon whiskey in the glaze. This Crock Pot version simplifies the traditional recipe by using slow cooking, allowing the chicken to absorb all the delicious sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors over time. The result is tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that perfectly balances the deep notes of bourbon with the sweetness of honey and brown sugar.
Customization Tips
- Chicken Choice: While this recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor, you can also use chicken breasts or even bone-in thighs.
- Bourbon Substitute: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the bourbon with apple cider or chicken broth, though it will slightly change the flavor profile.
- Spice Level: The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle kick. Feel free to increase or reduce the quantity according to your spice preference.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker glaze, let the sauce simmer longer after adding the cornstarch slurry or use a little extra cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the bourbon chicken over steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Add a side of sautéed green beans, broccoli, or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency. It’s also freezer-friendly—just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
The Flavor Profile
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a perfect example of how contrasting flavors can create culinary magic. The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and ketchup brings a unique depth to the dish, while the honey and brown sugar add a hint of sweetness that balances out the savoriness. Apple cider vinegar and fresh ginger introduce a tangy and zesty element, making the glaze irresistibly complex.
Why Use a Crock Pot?
Slow cooking allows the chicken to tenderize as it absorbs all the bold flavors from the sauce. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it method, perfect for busy households or anyone wanting a home-cooked meal without too much effort. Using a Crock Pot also ensures that the chicken stays moist and flavorful, unlike stovetop methods where overcooking can easily lead to dryness.
Fun Fact
The name “Bourbon Chicken” can be traced back to two sources of inspiration: Bourbon Street in New Orleans, known for its lively culture and delicious Creole cuisine, and the bourbon whiskey used to flavor the sauce. The alcohol content in the bourbon cooks off during the slow-cooking process, leaving behind a rich, caramel-like taste.
Pairing Ideas
- Starch Options:
- Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered noodles or egg noodles
- Vegetable Sides:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots
- A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Beverage Pairings:
- For an adult pairing, serve with a glass of bourbon-based cocktail like an Old Fashioned.
- A sweet iced tea or sparkling lemonade makes a great non-alcoholic pairing for kids and family gatherings.
Tips for Success
- Enhancing the Sauce: If you prefer a richer glaze, reduce the sauce in a saucepan before serving. This concentrates the flavors and makes the dish even more decadent.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet to retain the sauce’s texture.
- Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that delivers comfort and bold taste in every bite. Its rich bourbon glaze, combined with sweet and savory notes, makes it a family favorite perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight meal or serving it at a gathering, this recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness. Plus, with the slow cooker doing most of the work, you get to enjoy a stress-free cooking experience with restaurant-quality results. Try this dish today, and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!