Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Sweet, savory, and just the right amount of kick—this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this flavorful dish will impress your family and friends. The tender chicken thighs slow-cooked in a rich, bourbon-infused sauce create a satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with rice. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can set it and forget it!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of bourbon and spices creates a rich, mouth-watering sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, cauliflower rice, or even in wraps for a delightful twist.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors intensify overnight, making leftovers taste even better.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need some essential tools. These items ensure that everything goes according to plan while preparing this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, keeping the chicken juicy and tender while infusing flavors.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients seamlessly before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to ensure that your sauce ingredients blend thoroughly for an even flavor throughout.

Ingredients

For the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish, you will need the following 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 the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• ¼ cup chopped green onions

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Step 1: Add Chicken Thighs

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Light brown sugar
2. Soy sauce
3. Bourbon whiskey
4. Apple cider vinegar
5. Ground ginger
6. Honey
7. Red pepper flakes
8. Minced garlic

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in your slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook It Up

Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and chop or shred it according to your preference.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in your slow cooker.

Step 7: Return Chicken to Pot

Put the chopped chicken back into the slow cooker and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Garnish Before Serving

Turn off heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Step 9: Serve Your Dish

Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Serving your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken can elevate the meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some great ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.

Over Rice

• White Rice: The classic option that absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative packed with fiber.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, this choice adds a light touch.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Sautéed Green Beans: A crunchy side that complements the tender chicken well.

In Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken for a fresh and fun meal.
• Tortilla Wraps: Fill tortillas with bourbon chicken for a tasty handheld option.

As a Salad

• Bourbon Chicken Salad: Mix chopped chicken with greens, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

To ensure your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken turns out just right, here are some handy tips.

• Choice of Chicken: Using boneless, skinless thighs keeps the meat juicy and tender during cooking.
• Balance of Flavors: Adjust the sweetness or spice level by varying the amount of brown sugar or red pepper flakes.
• Cooking Time Management: Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours to achieve optimal tenderness.
• Thickening Technique: Use cornstarch mixed with water to create a smooth sauce consistency at the end of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs well with rich flavors.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness to balance the savory chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements bourbon notes beautifully; grill or boil as you prefer.
4. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.
5. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed grain salad can add texture and nutrition to your plate.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor contrasts nicely with sweet bourbon sauce and offers crunchiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce can result in bland chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Using low-quality bourbon: A subpar bourbon may negatively impact the dish’s taste. Choose a decent-quality bourbon for a richer flavor profile.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dry meat. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender results.
• Not thickening the sauce properly: Ignoring the cornstarch slurry can leave you with a runny sauce. Always stir it into the sauce to achieve that desired thickness.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping green onions removes a fresh touch from your dish. Always remember to garnish before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

What makes this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish?

This dish combines sweet, savory flavors with tender chicken, making it perfect for any night of the week.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture. If using breasts, be cautious not to overcook them.

How spicy is this crockpot bourbon chicken?

The red pepper flakes provide just a hint of spice. You can adjust or omit them based on your heat preference.

What should I serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish goes well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even noodles for a satisfying meal.

Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Yes! You can substitute bourbon with apple juice or additional apple cider vinegar if you want an alcohol-free version.

Final Thoughts

The Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors effortlessly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!