Crockpot Bourbon Chicken Recipe – A Flavorful Feast That’ll Have You Begging for Seconds

If you're looking for a recipe that’s packed with flavor and practically melts in your mouth, then this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a must-try! Tender chicken thighs soak up a sweet, savory, and spicy sauce that will make your taste buds sing. The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a rich glaze that clings to every bite. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds (maybe even thirds!).

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I discovered this recipe over at Insanely Good Recipes and knew I had to share it with you. With the ease of a slow cooker and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something comforting without too much effort.

Bourbon chicken has an interesting origin – while it’s often associated with Cajun cuisine, it actually gets its name from Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The dish itself is an Asian-inspired take on sticky, sweet, and savory chicken, often found at food courts in malls. But with this homemade version, you can recreate that same deliciousness with a personal touch.

Recipe Overview:

The beauty of this dish lies in the way the chicken is slow-cooked to perfection. The bourbon sauce thickens over time, coating the chicken pieces with a glossy, rich glaze. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, let it simmer, and voila – you have a mouth-watering meal waiting for you.

Here’s how to make this crowd-pleasing dish:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1⁄2 cup bourbon whiskey
• 1⁄2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1⁄3 cup brown sugar
• 1⁄4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1⁄4 cup cold water
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Then, place them in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until you have a smooth sauce. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and juicy.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the pieces and set them aside.
5. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cold water together to form a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker.
6. Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and let the sauce cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until it thickens.
7. Add the chicken back into the slow cooker and stir to coat it well in the thickened sauce.
8. Serve your bourbon chicken over steamed rice and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, flavorful finish.

Pro Tip: To really make this dish pop, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of paprika for a little extra visual appeal and flavor.

Variations and Pairing Suggestions:

• Vegetarian Option: If you prefer a meatless version, swap the chicken for tofu or seitan. The sauce pairs beautifully with these plant-based proteins.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the bourbon chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to cut down on carbs without sacrificing flavor.
• Pairings: This dish is perfect when paired with steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans, or you can serve it alongside a light salad to balance out the richness.

Bourbon chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just looking for a simple yet impressive dinner, this recipe has got you covered.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Be sure to leave a comment below and share your thoughts! And don't forget to follow for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes that will keep you coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!