Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Tender and juicy chicken thighs simmered in a brown sugar bourbon sauce all day long make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken a must-try dish. This easy, comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet-savory sauce, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do the work.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in wraps. Great for any occasion!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep—simply cook ahead and store for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your crockpot bourbon chicken, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours.
• Medium Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining sauces without creating a mess.
• Whisk: Essential for ensuring that your cornstarch slurry is smooth and lump-free, leading to a perfectly thickened sauce.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful crockpot bourbon chicken, gather these ingredients:

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup bourbon, (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

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place them in the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, add 1/3 cup bourbon, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves minced garlic.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover with the lid.
2. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water. Whisk until combined.
2. Whisk this cornstarch slurry into the sauce 30 minutes before cooking time ends to thicken it.

Step 5: Serve

1. Enjoy your delicious crockpot bourbon chicken over rice.
2. Garnish with green onions if desired.

With its ease of preparation and delightful flavor profile, this crockpot bourbon chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot bourbon chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to please your family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Pair the chicken with fluffy steamed rice to soak up the rich sauce.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the chicken over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

On a Salad

• Add chunks of bourbon chicken to a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad option.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your crockpot bourbon chicken, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality soy sauce will significantly enhance the flavor.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Properly season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for balanced taste.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking on low for 4 hours ensures tender, juicy meat without drying out.

• Thicken Sauce Carefully: Add the cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Complement your crockpot bourbon chicken with these fantastic side dishes that enhance its flavors while providing a balanced meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the savory sauce and is perfect for dipping.

2. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your plate visually appealing.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds texture and a healthy twist to your meal.

5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of bourbon chicken.

6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the saucy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your chicken thighs before placing them in the crockpot. This step enhances flavor and ensures a well-rounded dish.
• Neglecting to mix the sauce properly: Ensure you thoroughly combine the sauce ingredients before pouring them over the chicken. A well-mixed sauce distributes flavors evenly.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Be mindful of cooking times. Cooking on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours yields optimal results. Adjust based on your crockpot model.
• Not thickening the sauce: Don’t forget to add the cornstarch slurry 30 minutes before finishing cooking. This step is crucial for a rich, glossy sauce.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishing with green onions not only adds color but also brings a fresh bite that complements the dish beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best quality, label containers with date and contents.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken.

What can I substitute for bourbon in Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

You can use barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth as excellent substitutes for bourbon while maintaining great flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs provide more moisture, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative.

How spicy is Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

How do I know when my crockpot chicken is done?

The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork after cooking for the recommended time. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and customize it further with your favorite seasonings or vegetables. Give this recipe a try; it may become a family favorite!