If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken has become a family favorite in our home. The tender chicken thighs simmer slowly in a mouthwatering brown sugar sauce all day long, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting family gatherings and want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into why this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken should be on your dinner table soon!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to prepare: Just season and toss everything in the crockpot—no complicated steps!
Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this dish.
Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prepping! Just set it in the morning and come home to a warm dinner.
Deliciously satisfying: The combination of tender chicken and rich sauce is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy over rice, noodles, or even on its own for a comforting meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! They are easy to find and come together beautifully to create this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your 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, (you can use barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth as alternatives)
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, (minced)

For Thickening

2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons cold water

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s move on to how to make this scrumptious dish!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
Add some veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrients and color.
Spice it up: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Change 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 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs with Kosher salt and pepper. This first step is essential as it enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Once seasoned, place the thighs at the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon (or your chosen alternative), 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until everything blends together nicely. Pour this luscious sauce over your chicken in the crockpot—it’s where all that flavor magic happens!

Step 3: Cook Away!

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours or high for 3 hours. Cooking low and slow allows all those rich flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping your chicken juicy.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix together 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl until combined. Whisk this slurry into your sauce in the crockpot—this simple step thickens up that delicious sauce so it clings perfectly to every bite of chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done cooking, serve this mouthwatering Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice for a comforting meal. Feel free to garnish with sliced green onions for an extra splash of color and flavor! Enjoy every bite!

Now you’re ready to savor this delightful dish with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is not only about following the recipe; it’s also about maximizing flavor and ensuring the best texture. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

Choose high-quality chicken thighs: Using fresh, high-quality chicken thighs will result in a more tender and juicy dish. They have more fat than chicken breasts, which keeps them moist during cooking.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar. This alteration allows you to tailor the flavor profile to your liking while still enjoying a delicious meal.
Experiment with marinades: Feel free to marinate the chicken overnight in the sauce for even deeper flavors. This step enhances the taste as the chicken absorbs all those aromatic ingredients before cooking.
Use low-sodium soy sauce: Opting for low-sodium soy sauce can help control the saltiness of your dish, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Let it rest: After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing tenderness and juiciness.

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Serving Crockpot Bourbon Chicken can be as creative as you like! Here are some ideas to make your dinner not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Garnishes

Chopped green onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and a slight crunch that complements the tender chicken.
Sesame seeds: A dash of toasted sesame seeds adds an earthy flavor and visual interest, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Side Dishes

Steamed jasmine rice: Light and fluffy jasmine rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up all that delicious bourbon sauce while adding a subtle fragrance.
Roasted broccoli: Crispy roasted broccoli provides a healthy contrast and balances out the sweetness of the dish with its earthy flavors.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken while being a classic Southern side.
Garlic bread: For those who love dipping, garlic bread is an excellent choice to soak up that luscious sauce, turning your meal into an indulgent treat.

Whether you choose simple garnishes or pairings that complement your main dish, presenting this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken will surely impress family and friends at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, enjoy leftovers, or even freeze portions for later. Here’s how to manage your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Cool the chicken completely and portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.
For best results, freeze without rice; add rice when you reheat.

Reheating

Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through or microwave in short intervals.
Serve over freshly cooked rice for a delightful meal any day!

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other liquids instead of bourbon in Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Yes! You can substitute bourbon with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth for a flavorful alternative that still delivers delicious results.

How do I ensure my Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is tender?

Using boneless skinless chicken thighs is key to achieving tender meat. Simmering on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While you can use chicken breasts, they may not be as moist due to their lower fat content. For best results, stick with thighs or consider adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Is Crockpot Bourbon Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored and reheated easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and comforting Crockpot Bourbon Chicken. It’s a special dish that brings out rich flavors with minimal effort—perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping! Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me. Happy cooking!

Dinner

Crockpot Chicken

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Main
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

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Description

If you’re searching for an effortless yet delicious meal, look no further than this Crockpot Chicken! Tender chicken thighs simmer in a sweet and savory sauce, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will adore. Whether served over rice or noodles, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
1/3 cup apple juice (or barley tea/chicken broth)
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons cold water

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Instructions

Season the chicken thighs with kosher salt and pepper. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot.
In a bowl, mix apple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, combine cornstarch and cold water; whisk into the sauce to thicken.
Serve warm over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions.