Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Tender and juicy chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory sauce make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe will impress everyone at the table. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish delivers bold flavors that meld beautifully over hours of cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply season the chicken, mix the sauce, and let your crockpot do the work.
• Flavorful Results: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a rich, mouthwatering glaze that enhances the tender chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, paired with vegetables, or on its own for a satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet and savory chicken dish.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. These will ensure smooth cooking and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for achieving tender chicken infused with flavor as it cooks slowly.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing sauces without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when making the cornstarch slurry.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

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

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place them in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, add 1/3 cup barley tea (or apple juice/chicken broth), 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves minced garlic.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
3. Pour this mixture over the seasoned chicken in the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook

1. Cover the crockpot with its lid.
2. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water until combined.
2. Add this cornstarch slurry to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before cooking time is complete to thicken up your sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooked, serve your delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot bourbon chicken is a delectable dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing for crockpot bourbon chicken. The fluffy grains soak up the rich sauce, making each bite satisfying.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base. Their buttery flavor complements the sweet bourbon sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This refreshing choice adds crunch and freshness to your meal.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa offers a nutritious and protein-packed alternative to rice. Its nutty flavor pairs well with the savory chicken and enhances the dish’s texture.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnishing with chopped green onions adds color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

To ensure your crockpot bourbon chicken turns out perfectly tender and flavorful, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference. Less sugar balances well with the soy sauce.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary by crockpot model; check for doneness at recommended intervals to avoid overcooking.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the sauce. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

When planning your meal, consider pairing crockpot bourbon chicken with these delightful side dishes. Each one complements the rich flavors of the main course.

1. Garlic Bread
   A crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, providing a great balance to the sweet dish.

3. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken.

4. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with this dish, making every bite comforting and delicious.

5. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli offers nutrients and balances out the flavors without overpowering them.

6. Cauliflower Rice
   For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as an excellent substitute while absorbing all those tasty juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping seasoning: Always season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper before placing them in the crockpot. This step enhances flavor and ensures your dish is well-balanced.
• Not mixing the sauce properly: Make sure to combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic thoroughly before pouring it over the chicken. This helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the dish.
• Overcooking: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times—4 hours on low or 3 hours on high—for tender results.
• Ignoring cornstarch slurry timing: Adding the cornstarch mixture too early can lead to a soupy sauce. Remember to incorporate it 30 minutes before cooking is complete for the right thickness.
• Forgetting garnishes: Garnishing your dish adds a pop of color and freshness. Don’t skip this step—green onions make a great finishing touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring often until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe features chicken thighs, you can easily substitute turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when fully cooked. It should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick that complements the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting sweetness levels or swapping out proteins as desired. We encourage you to try this simple yet flavorful dish; your family will surely love it!