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Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

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Savoring a warm bowl of homemade Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; the delightful aroma of garlic mingling with the sweet scent of bourbon filled my home, drawing my family to the kitchen. It turned an ordinary weekday into something special. This recipe is simple, yet it offers a burst of flavor that leaves everyone asking for seconds. You’ll find that the slow cooking method makes the chicken tender and infused with a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a dish that brings us together, perfect for a relaxed dinner after a busy day.

Why make this recipe

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is an easy and delicious meal that can fit into your busy schedule. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other things. With just a few ingredients, you can make a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it’s great for feeding families or having leftovers. The combination of flavors makes it a standout option for dinner.

How to make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Ingredients

  • 3 Pounds Chicken Thighs (Boneless, skinless)
  • 1 Cup Light Brown Sugar
  • 1 Cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/3 Cup Bourbon Whisky
  • 2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger
  • 1 Tablespoon Honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 4 Cloves Garlic
  • 3 Tablespoons Cornstarch
  • 2 Tablespoons Water
  • 1/4 Cup Green Onions

Directions

  1. Place the chicken thighs, well trimmed, into the slow cooker.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, add the remaining ingredients except the cornstarch, water, and green onions. Mix together with a whisk.
  3. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours.
  5. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs to a plate and roughly chop them.
  6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is dissolved.
  7. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and whisk it together.
  8. Add the chopped chicken back to the sauce, stir to combine, and cover again. Let it bubble for a few minutes before turning off the crock pot.
  9. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve over rice.

How to serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Serve the Bourbon Chicken over hot, steaming rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also add steamed vegetables or a simple salad on the side for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

How to store Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. When ready to eat, thaw it out and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

  • Make sure to trim excess fat from the chicken thighs for a healthier dish.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
  • You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more flavor and nutrition.

Variation

You can swap out chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Additionally, for a different flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of brown mustard or a splash of orange juice to the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is there a way to make this dish without alcohol?

You can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Can I cook this on the stove instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on the stove by simmering everything in a large pot for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure the chicken is cooked through before serving.

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Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

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A delicious and easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe that delivers tender chicken in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for family dinners.

  • Author: hannah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 360 minutes
  • Total Time: 375 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 Pounds Boneless, skinless Chicken Thighs
  • 1 Cup Light Brown Sugar
  • 1 Cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/3 Cup Bourbon Whisky
  • 2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger
  • 1 Tablespoon Honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 3 Tablespoons Cornstarch
  • 2 Tablespoons Water
  • 1/4 Cup Chopped Green Onions

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken thighs, well trimmed, into the slow cooker.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, add the remaining ingredients except the cornstarch, water, and green onions. Mix together with a whisk.
  3. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on high for 240 minutes or low for 360 minutes.
  5. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs to a plate and roughly chop them.
  6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is dissolved.
  7. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and whisk it together.
  8. Add the chopped chicken back to the sauce, stir to combine, and cover again. Let it bubble for a few minutes before turning off the crock pot.
  9. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve over rice.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

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