Delicious and Easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

If you love bold flavors, tender chicken, and the rich taste of bourbon, then Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken should be on your list of must-try recipes. This dish combines the sweetness of maple syrup, the depth of bourbon, and the savory flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to create a truly irresistible meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this slow-cooked recipe is sure to please.

What is Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a slow-cooked dish that features chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful sauce made from bourbon, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and brown sugar. The bourbon gives the sauce its signature rich, slightly smoky flavor, while the maple syrup and brown sugar bring in a natural sweetness. The result is tender chicken with a glossy, flavorful coating that pairs perfectly with rice.

This easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken version is an adapted take on a traditional New Orleans recipe, making it a wonderful comfort food with a unique twist. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Key Ingredients in Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand the key ingredients that make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken a standout dish. Here’s a breakdown of each one:

Chicken Thighs: The star of the dish, chicken thighs are tender and flavorful, making them perfect for slow cooking. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out, chicken thighs stay moist and absorb the sauce’s flavor beautifully.
Bourbon: The signature ingredient that gives this dish its name, bourbon adds complexity and depth. Don’t worry about buying an expensive bottle – just pick a bourbon you’d enjoy drinking, and you’re good to go.
Soy Sauce: Provides an essential savory, umami base for the sauce. It balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients and enhances the overall flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds acidity, cutting through the sweetness and ensuring the dish isn’t too heavy. It also helps tenderize the chicken.
Brown Sugar & Maple Syrup: Both of these ingredients add sweetness, but they also contribute depth and richness to the sauce. The maple syrup, in particular, enhances the bourbon’s natural notes.
Garlic & Ginger: These ingredients provide a wonderful aromatic kick, giving the dish an Asian-inspired flavor profile. Fresh ginger brings a zesty, spicy touch, while garlic adds savory warmth.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, cornstarch ensures that the bourbon sauce sticks to the chicken, creating a glossy, irresistible coating.
Green Onions: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a mild, slightly sharp flavor that contrasts with the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Why Choose a Crock Pot for Bourbon Chicken?

While bourbon chicken can be made on the stovetop or in the oven, using a Crock Pot offers several advantages:

Hands-Free Cooking: Once you’ve added the ingredients to the Crock Pot, you can let it do the work while you focus on other tasks. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to hover over the stove.
Tender Chicken: The slow cooking method helps break down the collagen in chicken thighs, making them extra tender and juicy. The long cooking time allows the chicken to soak in all the flavors of the sauce, making every bite delicious.
Enhanced Flavors: Slow cooking lets the ingredients fully combine and develop their flavors. The bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and maple syrup infuse the chicken with a deep, rich taste that would be difficult to achieve in a quicker cooking method.
Easy Cleanup: Since you’re cooking everything in one pot, the cleanup is minimal. No need to worry about multiple pans or dishes – just wash your Crock Pot, and you’re done.

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is incredibly easy and doesn’t require any special culinary skills. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by preparing the marinade that will infuse the chicken with all of its flavors. In a small bowl, whisk together:

½ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free alternative)
¼ cup bourbon (pick a bottle you’d enjoy drinking)
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
5 cloves of crushed garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Mix everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well-combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least an hour, or even overnight if possible. Marinating allows the chicken to soak up all the flavors, making it more tender and flavorful.

If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating is highly recommended for the best results.

Step 3: Set up the Crock Pot

Lightly coat the Crock Pot with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. Then, transfer the marinated chicken and the marinade into the slow cooker.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours or on High for 2 ½ to 3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when done. If you’re using frozen chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the Crock Pot and transfer it to a serving plate. Then, strain the cooking liquid into a small saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat.

To thicken the sauce, make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the cooking liquid and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens into a glossy, smooth consistency (about 1 to 2 minutes).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped green onions for garnish. Serve with a side of rice, such as brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa.

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you’d like a little heat. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or an Asian-style salad.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious this dish is), here’s how to store or freeze them:

To Store: Leftover Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
To Freeze: For longer storage, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To Reheat: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s steaming hot. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a little water or broth to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

While the recipe for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is already delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

1. Different Protein Options

Chicken Breasts: While chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily in the slow cooker, so you’ll want to monitor the cooking time carefully to avoid overcooking them.
Pork: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can also use pork tenderloin or pork chops for a different twist. Pork pairs beautifully with the bourbon sauce and will still result in a flavorful and juicy dish.
Beef: For those who enjoy a heartier option, beef stew chunks or even flank steak can work well in this dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as beef might take a bit longer to cook through compared to chicken.

2. Make it Gluten-Free

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, it’s easy to adapt Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken:

Soy Sauce: Replace traditional soy sauce with tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Thickeners: Ensure that the cornstarch you’re using is certified gluten-free (most are, but it’s always good to check).

3. Spicy Bourbon Chicken

If you prefer a bit of heat to balance the sweetness of the bourbon sauce, here are a few ways to spice up the dish:

Add red pepper flakes: Start with ¼ teaspoon and increase the amount to your preferred spice level.
Sriracha: For an Asian-inspired twist, you can add a tablespoon of sriracha or another hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
Fresh Chili: Chopped fresh chili peppers, like jalapeños or Thai bird’s eye chilies, can add a zesty kick to the sauce.

4. Sugar-Free Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake, you can easily modify this recipe:

Substitute Sweeteners: Instead of brown sugar and maple syrup, opt for sugar-free sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. Be mindful of the sweetness level, as some sugar substitutes can be much sweeter than sugar.

5. Additional Vegetables

For a more wholesome meal, you can add vegetables to your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken:

Bell Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers for a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
Carrots: Chopped carrots will add a bit of sweetness and extra nutrients to the dish.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms will complement the flavors of the bourbon sauce and add an earthy richness.

6. Serving Ideas for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

While Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is fantastic on its own, you can elevate the meal by pairing it with some delicious sides. Here are a few ideas:

Rice: Serve the chicken with white rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. The rice will soak up the flavorful bourbon sauce, making every bite satisfying.
Vegetables: Pair the dish with sautéed or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or snap peas. These fresh, vibrant vegetables help balance out the richness of the chicken.
Salads: An Asian-inspired cabbage salad or a cucumber salad will add a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the bourbon chicken.
Noodles: For a heartier dish, serve the chicken over a bed of rice noodles or egg noodles for a noodle bowl-style meal.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Tips and Tricks

To make sure your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips and tricks:

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Although it’s optional, marinating the chicken overnight gives the meat more time to absorb the marinade, resulting in richer, more flavorful chicken. If you’re in a hurry, even a few hours of marinating will still produce a delicious result.

2. Thickening the Sauce

The cornstarch slurry is key to thickening the bourbon sauce. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute with flour or arrowroot powder. Just be sure to cook the slurry long enough to remove the raw flour taste.

3. Don’t Skip the Deglazing

Once you’ve removed the chicken from the Crock Pot, make sure to strain the sauce into a saucepan and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This caramelized goodness will add extra flavor to the sauce.

4. Monitor the Cooking Time

Since all slow cookers can vary in temperature, make sure to check the chicken at the recommended cooking time. You don’t want to overcook the chicken as it can become dry. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Customize the Sauce

Feel free to adjust the sweetness, acidity, or spice levels in the sauce. If you like a sweeter sauce, add more maple syrup or brown sugar. If you prefer a tangier flavor, a bit more apple cider vinegar can help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

When it comes to Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, there are a few common questions that come up. To make your cooking experience smoother, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

1. Can I Make Bourbon Chicken on the Stovetop?

Yes, you can make bourbon chicken on the stovetop! While the slow-cooking method in the Crock Pot allows for tender, juicy chicken with a deeply infused flavor, you can also prepare it in a skillet or wok. Simply sauté the chicken and cook the marinade on medium heat, stirring until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through. However, keep in mind that the stovetop method will take less time, and the texture might not be as tender as when cooked in a Crock Pot.

2. Can I Make Bourbon Chicken in the Oven?

Yes, you can make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken in the oven as well! Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the marinated chicken and sauce in a baking dish, and cover it with foil. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. This will give you a similar result, but it will require more attention than the slow-cooker method.

3. Could I Prepare Bourbon Chicken with Bone-In Chicken Thighs?

Bone-in chicken thighs can be used for this recipe, but they will require more cooking time than boneless thighs. If using bone-in chicken, increase the cooking time in the Crock Pot to around 8 hours on LOW or 4 hours on HIGH. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached 165°F (75°C).

4. Can I Make This Recipe with Frozen Chicken?

While it’s generally best to thaw your chicken before cooking, you can cook Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken with frozen chicken thighs. However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken, cook it on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

5. How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker Without Cornstarch?

If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can thicken the sauce using a few alternatives. You can create a roux by mixing flour with butter and adding it to the sauce to thicken it. Another option is to reduce the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

6. Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol?

Bourbon is the traditional choice for this dish, but you can use other spirits if you prefer. Whiskey or dark rum would also work well in this recipe, offering slightly different but still complementary flavors. Just be aware that the taste may vary depending on the type of alcohol you choose.

7. What’s the Best Way to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

Rice: Serve over fluffy rice like brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Noodles: For a twist, serve the chicken over noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles.
Salads: A fresh Asian cabbage salad or cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Vegetables: Steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or snap peas are excellent side dishes.

Final Thoughts on Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this dish offers both convenience and flavor. The slow-cooking process ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the bourbon and other ingredients come together to create a rich, sweet, and savory sauce that everyone will love.

The best part about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can make adjustments to suit your dietary preferences or experiment with different ingredients to create your version of bourbon chicken. With minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering meal that feels gourmet but is easy enough for everyday cooking.

Give this recipe a try, and we’re sure it will become one of your favorite go-to meals. The combination of flavors, convenience, and ease makes Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed of excess fat)
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¼ cup bourbon (choose a bourbon you’d enjoy drinking)
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
5 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
2 cups prepared brown rice (for serving)

Instructions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, bourbon, brown sugar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well-combined.
Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
Lightly coat the Crock Pot with cooking spray. Transfer the marinated chicken and the marinade into the Crock Pot.
Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 2 ½ – 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the Crock Pot and place it on a serving plate. Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to medium heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the cooking liquid and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (1-2 minutes).
Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
Serve with rice and enjoy!

Notes:

Chicken: Chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe as they remain tender and juicy when slow-cooked. If using chicken breasts, monitor the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
Bourbon Substitution: If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can replace it with apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Vegetable Additions: For a more hearty meal, add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the Crock Pot along with the chicken.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, with 1/4 cup rice):

Calories: 439 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 162mg
Potassium: 566mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 16g
Vitamin A: 104 IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 59mg
Iron: 4mg

Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (LOW) or 2 ½ – 3 hours (HIGH)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American, Southern, Comfort Food
Servings: 4
Calories: 439 kcal (per serving)
Yield: 4 servings