Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy dish that’s cooked to tender perfection in a slow cooker. Inspired by the flavors of classic Bourbon Street cuisine, this dish combines tender chicken with a rich bourbon-infused sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: The crockpot does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other tasks.
• Family-friendly: Sweet and savory flavors make this a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Meal prep friendly: Great for leftovers and easy to reheat.
• Delicious depth of flavor: The bourbon adds a subtle richness that takes the dish to the next level.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• Bourbon
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Honey
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (minced or ground)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Water
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Add ingredients to the crockpot: Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the sauce over the top. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Shred the chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or leave it whole if preferred.
5. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or seitan and adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the crockpot for a complete one-pot meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Does the alcohol in the bourbon cook off?

Yes, most of the alcohol cooks off during the slow cooking process, leaving behind the rich flavor of the bourbon.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, though thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Is there a substitute for bourbon?

Apple juice or chicken broth can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function to brown the chicken and then pressure cook on high for 10-12 minutes with a quick release.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too runny?

Be sure to add the cornstarch slurry and cook on high for the final 20-30 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?

Yes, sturdy vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions can be added at the start of cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can adjust or omit them to suit your preference.

What side dishes go well with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, steamed broccoli, or a simple side salad complement this dish beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

How do I make the chicken extra tender?

Cooking on low for the full time ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and easy to shred.

Conclusion

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, sweet, and savory sauce, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and is sure to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the irresistible taste of Bourbon Street right at home!

Print