Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The best part? You can set it up in your slow cooker and let it do all the work for you!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for those looking for a quick and satisfying dinner. It requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Plus, the slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s an ideal meal for families or when you have guests over, as it can serve a crowd without much effort.
How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is straightforward and fun! Here’s how you can create this tasty dish step-by-step.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup bourbon, whiskey, apple juice, or chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Directions:
- In the crockpot, combine the chicken thighs, brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon (or substitute), and minced garlic.
- Season with kosher salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce.
- Shred the chicken and return it to the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is best served over a bed of rice or alongside some steamed vegetables. The sauce pairs wonderfully with both, soaking into the rice and enhancing the flavor of your sides. You can also top it with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a nice presentation.
How to Store Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Make sure to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste preferences.
Variation
If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just remember that breasts may cook quicker, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out. You can also try adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the crockpot for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or tofu as alternatives to chicken in this recipe.
2. Is bourbon necessary for this recipe?
No, you can substitute the bourbon with whiskey, apple juice, or chicken broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.
3. Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook it in a large pot on the stove, but the cooking time will be shorter. Keep an eye on the chicken and make sure it is cooked through.
Enjoy making and sharing this amazing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe with your family and friends!
