Imagine walking into a room filled with the sweet and savory aroma of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, your taste buds already dancing in anticipation. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, with tender chicken bathing in a rich, sticky sauce that promises to elevate any dinner gathering. blueberry thyme chicken dish tender slow cooker chicken recipe Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive get-together, this recipe is bound to steal the show. For more inspiration, check out this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe recipe.
Speaking of stealing the show, I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. My sister couldn’t stop raving about it, claiming it was “better than her boyfriend’s cooking,” which, let’s be honest, is quite the compliment! The laughter that followed was just as memorable as the flavors of the dish itself. So if you’re ready to impress your loved ones (or at least make them forget about their exes), let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- With its rich flavor profile and glossy finish, it adds visual appeal to any table setting
- You can serve it over rice or noodles, offering versatility for all tastes
- Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly while it cooks!
I once whipped up this delightful dish for a family gathering and received an enthusiastic round of applause from my friends and family.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless Chicken Thighs: They remain juicy and tender during slow cooking; plus, they absorb flavors beautifully.
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Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that irresistible glaze everyone loves. For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey Peach Hot Wings recipe.
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Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for better control over saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Bourbon: A splash of bourbon gives depth and warmth; make sure it’s one you enjoy drinking!
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch of flavor; use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
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Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zingy twist that perfectly balances the sweetness. perfect for backyard BBQs.
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Green Onions: These provide freshness and a pop of color as garnish before serving.
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Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce into that wonderful sticky consistency we crave.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat off your boneless chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully later on.
Create Your Sauce Mix: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir well until smooth—your kitchen will start smelling amazing already.
Add Everything to the Crock Pot: Layer your chicken thighs in the bottom of the crock pot. Pour that luscious sauce mixture over them evenly.
Set It and Forget It!: Cover the crock pot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Enjoy the enticing aromas wafting throughout your home!
Thicken That Sauce!: Once cooked through, remove chicken thighs and set aside. Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until combined; stir into the remaining sauce in the crock pot. Cook on high for another 15 minutes until thickened.
Serve with Flair!: Shred or slice your chicken as desired before returning it to the pot. Garnish with sliced green onions for that pop of color—and taste! Serve over rice or noodles for an indulgent feast.
And there you have it—a delightful Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about how easy it was to whip up such deliciousness!
You Must Know
- Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a deliciously easy dish that fills your home with the inviting aroma of sweet and savory
- This recipe allows for endless customization, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- Plus, it’s a hit with families, making dinner stress-free!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken for color and flavor, then combine it with the sauce in your Crock Pot. This sequence ensures every bite is juicy and packed with taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for pork or tofu, add extra veggies, or play with spices like ginger or garlic to create your unique twist on Bourbon Chicken.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor, let the dish cook low and slow—this tenderizes the meat beautifully
- Don’t skip searing; it adds depth to your sauce
- Lastly, adjust sweetness by adding more or less bourbon to suit your taste buds!
Cooking this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken reminds me of a family gathering where everyone went back for seconds—my uncle even asked for the recipe! It’s heartwarming to see loved ones enjoy a meal you created. southern banana cobbler dessert.
FAQ
What can I substitute for bourbon in this recipe?
You can use apple cider vinegar or non-alcoholic bourbon for a similar flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day early and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge.
Is there a vegetarian version of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
Yes! Substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan to create an equally delightful vegetarian dish.
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for impressing family and friends. This easy slow-cooker recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich bourbon glaze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Serve it over rice or noodles to create a satisfying meal that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and pat dry.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, garlic, and ginger; mix until smooth.
- Place chicken in the Crock Pot and pour the sauce mixture over it.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, remove chicken and mix cornstarch slurry into the sauce; cook on high for an additional 15 minutes until thickened.
- Shred or slice the chicken and return it to the pot; garnish with green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
