This Easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s made with chicken, sweet bourbon sauce, and hints of garlic and ginger, all cooking together in a slow cooker for a rich flavor.
What’s great is you just throw everything in and let it do its magic! I love serving it over rice, and my family goes wild for it—no leftovers here! 🍚😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I suggest using chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but breast meat works too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using skinless chicken breast.
Bourbon Whiskey: This gives the dish its unique flavor! If you prefer not to use it, try apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. It won’t taste the same, but will still be tasty!
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep it healthier. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a great substitution.
Brown Sugar: You can swap it with honey or maple syrup if needed. Just reduce the amount slightly since they are sweeter.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like less heat, omit this, or you can replace it with black pepper for a milder kick.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Flavored Well?
To achieve tender chicken with a rich flavor, the slow cooking method is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Use the low setting on your crock pot for slow cooking. This helps break down the chicken fibers, making it super tender.
- Let the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 6 hours before cooking to deepen the flavor.
- When you’re ready, make sure to coat the chicken with the sauce thoroughly after returning it to the pot. This will help it absorb that delicious flavor!
Following these tips will help your Bourbon Chicken turn out amazing every time!
Easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated or minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious bourbon chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let it cook in the crock pot. You’ll need 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. All in all, you’ll need about 7 hours and 15 minutes—but most of that is hands-off time while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken thighs or breasts right in the bottom of your crock pot. This is the base of your dish!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you’d like some heat). Don’t forget to add the 1/2 cup of water. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the tasty sauce mixture over the chicken in the crock pot. Make sure all those delicious flavors are covering the chicken!
4. Cooking Time:
Now, cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will be tender and flavorful when it’s done!
5. Thickening the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully take it out and set it aside briefly. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water to create a slurry. Now, pour this slurry into the crock pot and stir it into the sauce.
6. Final Cooking:
Switch the crock pot to high and let it cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes. This will thicken your sauce nicely!
7. Coat the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and make sure it’s well coated with your thickened bourbon sauce.
8. Serve:
Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the bourbon chicken over a bed of prepared white rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top for a lovely garnish!
Enjoy this sweet and savory bourbon chicken that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare in your crock pot! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time; plan on about 7 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when done!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! If you want to add some heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or include some diced jalapeño or chili sauce to the sauce mixture. Adjust to your taste!
What Can I Serve With Bourbon Chicken Besides Rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives to rice, consider serving it with quinoa, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. For a lower-carb option, you could serve it over cauliflower rice!
