A Sweet and Tangy Family Favorite!
Indulge in a delicious and easy-to-make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe that brings together savory and sweet flavors with a hint of spice. This family favorite is ideal for busy weeknights, with minimal prep time and a slow cooking process that brings out rich flavors. Served over rice, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Ingredients
- 3 Pounds Chicken Thighs – boneless, skinless
- 1 Cup Light Brown Sugar
- 1 Cup Soy Sauce
- ⅓ Cup Bourbon Whisky (or substitute with apple juice for an alcohol-free version)
- 2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
- ½ Teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 1 Tablespoon Honey
- ½ Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 4 Cloves Garlic – minced
- 3 Tablespoons Cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons Water
- ¼ Cup Green Onions – chopped, for garnish
Equipment
- 7-Quart Crock Pot
- Glass Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place well-trimmed, boneless, and skinless chicken thighs in the crock pot. This cut of chicken remains tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, making it ideal for this dish.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon (or apple juice), apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Mix all ingredients thoroughly using a whisk, ensuring the sugar is dissolved and the flavors are well-blended.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken thighs in the crock pot. Cover the pot and cook on high for 4 hours, or set on low for a 6-hour cook time, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a plate. Roughly chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a separate mixing bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water, then add it to the sauce in the crock pot. Stir with a whisk until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Add the chopped chicken back to the crock pot, stirring to coat it in the thickened sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully combine. Before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, aromatic garnish.
Serve over rice and enjoy!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Apple Juice – Substitute for bourbon if you prefer an alcohol-free dish.
- Chicken Breast – Substitute chicken thighs with cubed chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Ketchup – Add a tablespoon for an extra layer of tanginess.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 49g
- Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 215 mg
- Sodium: 2380 mg
- Potassium: 784 mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 39g
This easy-to-make, delicious Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. The sweet and tangy flavors, coupled with the convenience of slow cooking, make it a go-to meal for any day of the week. Enjoy!