Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

There’s something magical about walking into a house that smells like slow-cooked bourbon chicken—sweet, smoky, and just a little bit boozy. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, like a hug from an old friend. I first fell in love with this dish at a little takeout spot years ago, and after one bite, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The best part? My crock pot does most of the work, filling the kitchen with that irresistible aroma while I go about my day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about balance—sweet, savory, and just a hint of bourbon to deepen the flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Thighs stay juicy in the slow cooker, but breasts work too if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup bourbon – Don’t skip this! It adds richness, but the alcohol cooks off. (Substitute apple juice if needed.)
• 1/3 cup soy sauce – I use low-sodium to control the saltiness.
• 1/4 cup honey – For that perfect sticky-sweet glaze.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – Deepens the caramel notes.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better.
• 1 tbsp grated ginger – Fresh is best, but 1 tsp ground ginger works in a pinch.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Just enough for a gentle kick.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water – For thickening the sauce at the end.

Let’s Make It

This recipe couldn’t be simpler—just toss everything in and let the crock pot work its magic. Here’s how:

1. Prep the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the thighs and pat them dry. This helps the sauce cling better later.
2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice to your liking.
3. Slow cook: Place the chicken in the crock pot and pour the sauce over it. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
4. Thicken the sauce: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred or chop it. Mix the cornstarch and water, then stir into the crock pot. Return the chicken and cook on high for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Tip: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. And don’t skip the final thickening step—it turns the sauce into a glossy, velvety glaze that clings to every bite.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is wonderfully forgiving, making it easy to tweak to your taste. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Not a fan of chicken? Try this recipe with pork tenderloin or even beef strips for a different twist.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar by half or substitute with honey or maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to give your bourbon chicken a little kick.
• No bourbon? No problem: Substitute with apple juice or chicken broth if you prefer to skip the alcohol—just add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some of our favorites:

• Fluffy white rice or jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Buttery mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort food vibes.
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! This bourbon chicken keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken, then pressure cook on high for 8–10 minutes with a quick release.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon?
Yes! Apple juice or even ginger ale with a teaspoon of vanilla extract can mimic the depth of bourbon.

Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking, but if you’re in a pinch, add an extra 30–60 minutes to the cooking time.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir into the sauce, and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about coming home to the aroma of slow-cooked bourbon chicken filling your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it up for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The tender chicken, rich sauce, and effortless preparation make it a winner every time. So grab your slow cooker, pour yourself a little bourbon (for the recipe—or maybe a sip for yourself!), and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this comforting meal. Happy cooking!