Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory sauce make for a delightful dinner that your whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this dish brings a taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen without any fuss.

I adore this recipe because it’s so easy to prepare. You can simply toss everything into the crockpot, forget about it for a few hours, and return to a mouthwatering aroma filling your home. Trust me; this is one of those meals that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season the chicken and let the crockpot do all the work!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet brown sugar and savory soy sauce create a taste that pleases even picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just set it in the morning and enjoy a delicious dinner later.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even as a filling in wraps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this recipe are simple and wholesome. No fancy items here—just good food that brings everyone together!

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup bourbon (substitutes: barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)

To Thicken the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to match your tastes or use what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add some heat: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
• Veggie boost: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the crockpot for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Sauce swap: Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup if you want to change up the sweetness.

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 on both sides. This step enhances the overall flavor of your dish right from the start. Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon (or your chosen substitute), 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed together. Pour this delicious blend over your chicken in the crockpot. It’s important because this is where all those wonderful flavors meld together during cooking!

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover with the lid and set your crockpot to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours. Cooking low and slow allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing all those tasty flavors from the sauce.

Step 4: Thicken It Up

About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until combined. Stir this mixture into your simmering sauce in the crockpot. This step is crucial because it gives your sauce that perfect thick consistency that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken!

Step 5: Serve Up!

Once done cooking, serve your tender crockpot bourbon chicken over fluffy rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with some green onions for added color and crunch! Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful meal with loved ones around your table.

With these simple steps, you’ll create an unforgettable dinner experience that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Making this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a breeze with a few handy tips that can help you achieve the most flavorful and tender results!

• Choose the right cut of chicken: Opting for boneless, skinless chicken thighs rather than breasts ensures that your dish will remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.

• Let it marinate: If you have extra time, allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for an hour or two before cooking can enhance the flavor significantly, making every bite even more delicious.

• Thicken your sauce effectively: Whisking your cornstarch with cold water creates a smooth slurry that helps thicken the sauce without clumping. Adding this 30 minutes before serving ensures it has enough time to reach the perfect consistency.

• Adjust sweetness and saltiness: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or soy sauce according to your taste preferences. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish just how you like it!

• Double up on servings: This recipe is great for meal prep! Make a larger batch and refrigerate or freeze leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Serving this flavorful dish can be as creative as you want! The sweet and savory notes of the bourbon chicken make it a versatile meal that pairs well with various sides and garnishes.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch, enhancing both the texture and visual appeal of your plate.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies, like bell peppers and broccoli, adds vibrant color and nutrition to your meal while balancing out its richness.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken, adding texture and a touch of acidity that brightens each bite.
• Garlic bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce on your plate, making sure none of that tasty goodness goes to waste!

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your mouthwatering Crockpot Bourbon Chicken! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week without the fuss. With just a little planning, you can have this dish ready to go whenever hunger strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the chicken in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth.
• Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power until heated through.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

FAQs

Have some questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken? Here are some helpful answers!

Can I use something instead of bourbon in Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth. Each alternative will add its unique flavor while keeping the dish delicious.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken typically cooks on low for about 4 hours or on high for approximately 3 hours. The slow cooking process makes the chicken tender and flavorful!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce. This way, you can still enjoy all the delicious flavors without gluten.

What should I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or even over noodles. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken as I am! It’s such a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks. Enjoy every bite as you savor the flavors of New Orleans from your own kitchen. Happy cooking!