Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! This flavorful slow cooker meal combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With minimal prep time and hands-free cooking, this recipe ensures you spend more time enjoying the food and less time in the kitchen. Whether you serve it over rice or cauliflower rice, this dish is sure to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of bourbon, brown sugar, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; they store well in the fridge!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always receives rave reviews.

Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the cooking process and enhances your culinary experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for easy cooking while infusing flavors slowly.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients before adding them to your slow cooker.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
For the Sauce
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For Thickening
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped green onions, for garnish
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of a slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly spaced out for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. Brown sugar
2. Soy sauce
3. Bourbon whiskey
4. Apple cider vinegar
5. Ground ginger
6. Honey
7. Red pepper flakes
8. Minced garlic
Once mixed well, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
Step 4: Shred or Chop Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Chop or shred it according to your preference.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the chopped chicken to the slow cooker. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option!
How to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Serving the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is straightforward, and it can be enjoyed in various ways. This dish’s sweet and savory flavor profile allows for creative serving suggestions that will please everyone at the table.
Over Rice
- White Rice: A classic option that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Brown Rice: Offers a nuttier flavor and adds more fiber.
- Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb alternative that complements the chicken well.
In Tacos
- Soft Tortillas: Use flour or corn tortillas to wrap the chicken for a fun twist.
- Crunchy Taco Shells: For added texture, serve in baked taco shells topped with fresh veggies.
As a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Top a bed of greens with shredded bourbon chicken for a light meal.
- Coleslaw: Add some crunch by serving the chicken over coleslaw for an extra zing.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds nutrition and color to your plate.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots pair nicely with the chicken’s flavors.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe, consider these handy tips. They will help ensure your dish turns out flavorful and tender every time.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce overnight can deepen the flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your family’s preferences for heat.
- Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to stir the cornstarch slurry well into the sauce to avoid lumps.
- Keep It Covered: Avoid lifting the lid while cooking; this ensures even cooking and moisture retention.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances its flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this flavorful main dish perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A perfect accompaniment to scoop up any extra sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside sweet bourbon chicken.
- Green Beans Almondine: Crisp green beans with toasted almonds add freshness and crunch.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like bourbon chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy option packed with nutrients and great textures.
- Fried Rice: An Asian-inspired side that brings additional flavors without overshadowing the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish, avoid these common mistakes.
- Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: If you add too much chicken, it won’t cook evenly. Stick to the recipe’s amount to allow proper heat distribution.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Rushing through the marinating process can lead to bland flavor. Letting the chicken soak in the sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances taste.
- Neglecting to Thicken the Sauce: Not using cornstarch can leave your dish watery. Always make a slurry and stir it in to achieve that perfect consistency.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken. Follow the recommended times to keep your meat tender and juicy.
- Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping toppings like green onions can lessen visual appeal and flavor. They add a fresh crunch that elevates your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20–30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but be mindful that they may dry out faster during cooking.
How spicy is this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe?
The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. Start with less if you’re unsure and adjust according to your taste!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat when ready to serve.
What should I serve with this dish?
This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken pairs well with white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
The Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish that offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s versatile enough to customize with various side dishes or spice levels. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a must-try dish that brings together tender chicken thighs and a mouthwatering sweet and savory bourbon sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this slow cooker recipe allows you to enjoy delicious homemade food with minimal effort. Simply combine the ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and savor the delightful flavors that will impress your family and friends. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Cornstarch and water for thickening
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred or chop it, then return to the slow cooker.
- Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry and stir into the sauce. Cook an additional 5–10 minutes until thickened.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg