Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about coming home to the smell of dinner already cooking away in the kitchen, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share my Slow Cooker Bourbon Chicken recipe—a delicious fusion of Southern and American-Chinese flavors that transforms tender chicken thighs into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Not only is this dish effortlessly easy to make, but it also offers a delightfully customizable heat level, making it perfect for everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or looking to impress guests with minimal fuss, this crock pot bourbon chicken is your go-to meal. Curious about how a splash of bourbon can elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the details! Why Is This Bourbon Chicken So Special? Ease of Preparation: Just toss your ingredients in the slow cooker; dinner practically makes itself! Bursting with Flavor: The rich bourbon-infused sauce offers a delectable balance of sweet and savory that’s truly irresistible. Customizable: Want more heat? Toss in some jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Prefer a sweeter bite? Adjust the sugar to your liking! Crowd-Pleasing: This dish has universal appeal—perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it over rice, like with Honey Bbq Chicken, for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. Nutritional Comfort: It’s not only tasty but also relatively healthy, fitting nicely into your meal prep routine without guilt. Try it alongside a colorful salad to boost your veggie intake! Savor the joy of a home-cooked meal while embracing simplicity and flavor with this unforgettable crock pot bourbon chicken! Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Ingredients • Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious dish! For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The star of the show, bringing tenderness and flavor; for a healthier twist, use chicken breasts. For the Sauce Light Brown Sugar – This adds the perfect touch of sweetness to the sauce; feel free to increase slightly for a sweeter finish. Soy Sauce – An essential for that salty umami base; opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier choice. Bourbon Whiskey – Infuses the dish with a rich depth; substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version. Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick to balance the sweetness; no substitutions necessary here! Ground Ginger – Provides warmth and a spice element; fresh ginger can elevate the flavor even more. Honey – Sweetens and deepens the sauce flavor; consider replacing it with maple syrup for a unique twist. Red Pepper Flakes – Adds just the right amount of heat; customize based on your spice preference. Garlic (minced) – For aromatic flavor; always use fresh garlic for optimal taste. For Thickening Cornstarch – Necessary for thickening your luscious sauce at the end; arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative. Water – Needed to create a cornstarch slurry; there are no substitutes for this. For Garnish Chopped Green Onions – Adds a pop of freshness and color; sesame seeds can also be used for a crunchy alternative. Now, you’re all set to whip up this comforting crock pot bourbon chicken! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Step 1: Setup the Chicken Begin by placing the boneless skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking. This step is essential as the chicken is the star of this crock pot bourbon chicken, ensuring it gets coated beautifully in the sauce. Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce In a mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This aromatic sauce will envelop and infuse the chicken with sweet and savory flavors, setting the stage for a delightful meal. Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over Chicken Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. The tantalizing aroma will fill your kitchen as it cooks, ensuring a mouthwatering dish. Step 4: Shred the Chicken Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces; it should be incredibly tender and easy to pull apart. This will allow the chicken to better absorb the flavorful sauce when combined later. Step 5: Thicken the Sauce To achieve a glossy finish for your crock pot bourbon chicken, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Stir this slurry into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker, and continue cooking on high for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until thickened. This step is key for that perfect, clingy sauce consistency. Step 6: Combine and Serve Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it well to mix with the thickened sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve your delectable crock pot bourbon chicken over freshly cooked rice, garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for that extra touch of color and crunch. Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Variations Feel free to personalize your dish with these delightful twists and substitutions that will elevate your slow-cooked masterpiece! Vegetable Addition: Add bite-sized pieces of bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to enrich the dish. They’ll bring color and added nutrition to your plate while complementing the sauce beautifully. Spicy Variation: Increase red pepper flakes or introduce sliced jalapeños for a hotter version. Heat enthusiasts will love the extra kick, making each bite a flavor explosion! Sour Alternative: Swap bourbon for apple cider or a splash of flavored vinegar for different flavor profiles. This adjustment can create a refreshing tang, lovely for summer meals. Herb Infusion: Stir in some fresh basil or cilantro at the end, just before serving for a vibrant herbal twist. The fresh herbs will brighten the dish and add layers of flavor to every bite. Honey-Free Option: If you want to cut down on sugar, consider replacing honey with a touch of agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener. This keeps the sauce sweet while accommodating health-conscious preferences. Fruit Kick: Throw in some pineapple chunks or mango pieces during the last hour of cooking for a fruity sweetness. This delightful addition balances the savory elements perfectly! Arrowroot Swap: If you want a gluten-free sauce, use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for thickening. This easy swap offers similar results with a gluten-free benefit. Experimenting with these variations can lead to new family favorites; for another delicious slow-cooked chicken experience, check out my Honey Bbq Chicken! An added bonus? You’ll still enjoy the genius of a slow-cooked, effortless meal, perfect for any day of the week. Make Ahead Options These Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can pre-chop any vegetables you’d like to add, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the marinated mixture into your slow cooker and follow the original cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort—just as tasty and satisfying as if you had made it from scratch that day! How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Fridge: Store leftover crock pot bourbon chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through to maintain flavor and texture. Freezer: To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When reheating from the fridge, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, and heat over low heat on the stovetop or use the microwave, stirring occasionally. Tips for Meal Prep: For an easy weeknight dinner, consider cooking a larger batch and portioning it out for quick meals throughout the week. What to Serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken There’s no better way to complement the rich flavors of your slow-cooked chicken than with delightful side dishes that enhance the experience. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle aroma of jasmine rice creates a perfect base that soaks up the luscious bourbon sauce beautifully. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli adds crisp texture and brightness to your plate. Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterbalance to the rich flavors of your chicken. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks create a satisfying contrast to your meal and are perfect for scooping up that extra sauce. Tangy Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity from coleslaw add a zesty touch, cutting through the sweetness of the bourbon sauce. Warm Applesauce: A slightly sweet, warm applesauce pairs well with the savory elements, reinforcing the dish’s comforting vibes. Mango Lassi: A cool, creamy beverage like mango lassi nicely balances the heat from any red pepper flakes in the chicken. Chocolate Mousse: Finish your meal with a rich, velvety chocolate mousse for an indulgent dessert that echoes the sweetness of your chicken. Each of these accompaniments brings a unique texture or flavor that elevates your crock pot bourbon chicken into a full, satisfying meal! Expert Tips for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the last hour of cooking. Chicken breasts can dry out easily, so ensure tender, juicy results by not exceeding time limits. Thicker Sauce Option: If your sauce isn’t thick enough after adding cornstarch, mix in more slurry and cook for a short while. This will help achieve that clingy perfection in your crock pot bourbon chicken! Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality, fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. So, always opt for fresh garlic and ginger when available. Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust sugar and spice levels based on your preferences. Want it sweeter? Add more brown sugar! Craving heat? A few extra red pepper flakes will do the trick! Optimal Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days in the fridge or freeze for longer storage. Reheating brings back the delicious flavors! Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend boneless skinless chicken thighs for this crock pot bourbon chicken, as they offer the tenderness and flavor you want. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but be careful not to overcook them, as they may become dry. How do I know when my chicken is cooked properly? You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s fork-tender and internal temperatures reach at least 165°F (74°C). If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a handy tool to ensure it’s perfectly cooked! What is the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. Be sure to reheat gently to help maintain that delicious flavor and tender texture. Can I freeze leftover bourbon chicken? Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! Once the chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop for best results. What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening? If the sauce isn’t thick enough after adding cornstarch, mix together additional cornstarch and water to create another slurry. Stir this into the sauce and cook on high for an extra 5-10 minutes. This will help achieve that perfect clingy consistency for your crock pot bourbon chicken! Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions or allergies? While this recipe contains soy sauce, which can be high in sodium and may not suit individuals with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, be mindful if anyone at your table is allergic to any specific ingredients, such as the bourbon or honey, which can be omitted or replaced with alternatives like apple cider for a non-alcoholic version. Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: Irresistibly Sweet and Savory Delight Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a delicious fusion of Southern and American-Chinese flavors that transforms tender chicken thighs into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: American-Chinese, SouthernCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts for a healthier option.For the Sauce1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Adjust to taste for sweetness.1/2 cup Soy Sauce Use low-sodium for a healthier choice.1/2 cup Bourbon Whiskey Can substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar No substitutions necessary.1 tablespoon Ground Ginger Fresh ginger can elevate the flavor.1 tablespoon Honey Consider maple syrup as a substitute.1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Customize based on your spice preference.4 cloves Garlic (minced) Always use fresh garlic.For Thickening2 tablespoons Cornstarch Arrowroot can be a gluten-free alternative.1/4 cup Water Used for making cornstarch slurry.For Garnish2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions Sesame seeds can also be used. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Bourbon ChickenBegin by placing the boneless skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker, arranged in a single layer for even cooking.In a mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until smooth.Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with water, then stir it into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir to mix with the thickened sauce, and cook for another 5 minutes. Serve over rice, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 890mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheating brings back the delicious flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!