Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a tasty dish that combines chicken and a sweet, tangy sauce made with bourbon. It’s super easy to make and perfect for busy days!
Using a slow cooker means dinner can cook while you relax. I love serving it over rice to soak up that yummy sauce—trust me, it’s a hit with everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and rich flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts will work too, but they can be a bit drier, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Soy Sauce: This brings a nice umami taste. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use light soy sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos; they work just as well!
Bourbon: The bourbon gives depth to the dish. If you’re not a fan of alcohol, apple juice or a mix of equal parts water and vinegar is a fine substitute.
Brown Sugar: You can swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. Remember, honey is sweeter, so use a bit less than the recipe calls for.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can also add a nice flavor; just use a little less because they can be more potent!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender and Flavorful?
To keep the chicken nice and tender, it’s essential to follow the right cooking method with your crock pot. Cooking on low heat for a longer time really helps lock in moisture and flavor. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start by mixing your sauce ingredients in a bowl. Whisk them well to combine.
- Add the chicken to the crock pot before pouring the sauce on top to make sure every piece is coated.
- It’s crucial not to lift the lid while it’s cooking; it lets heat escape and can increase cooking time.
- When shredding the chicken, use two forks to pull it apart gently; it should be super easy if it’s cooked properly.
Lastly, don’t forget to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste before serving! Adding fresh green onions on top adds a lovely crunch and freshness to the dish.
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 6-7 hours of cooking time on low, or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day! Just prepare your ingredients, set everything in the crock pot, and let it cook while you go about your day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, start by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. This sauce is what brings all the delicious flavors!
2. Add Chicken to the Crock Pot:
Place the chicken thighs in the crock pot. Pour the tasty sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. This will help the chicken soak up all that yummy flavor while it cooks.
3. Set It to Cook:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and tender—so tender that it shreds easily!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the pot. Give it a good stir to mix the shredded chicken back in with all that flavorful sauce. It’s going to smell amazing!
5. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste the chicken and add salt and pepper if needed. Scoop the Bourbon Chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the thighs. Just be aware that chicken breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on the high setting or around 5 hours on low.
What Can I Use Instead of Bourbon?
If you’d prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple juice or chicken broth mixed with a splash of vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile. Just keep in mind this will change the taste slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Bourbon Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze any extra chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
