Introduction
Sweet, sticky, and savory with just a hint of bourbon warmth — this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is the ultimate takeout-style comfort food made effortlessly at home. Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while bold flavors marry and tender chicken soaks up that irresistible sauce. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or casual get-togethers!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon (or apple juice for non-alcoholic)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: ~5 hours
Set it, forget it, and come home to the aroma of irresistible bourbon chicken.
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional for flavor)
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned. (This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped.)
Step 2: Add to Crock Pot
Place chicken in the slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, bourbon, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour over chicken.
Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker, cover again, and cook until sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve
Serve over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for Success
- Chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful during slow cooking
- Don’t skip the slurry — it gives the sauce that sticky, glossy finish
- Add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli in the last hour for a complete meal
Variations
- Use chicken breasts if preferred (reduce cook time slightly)
- Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-tart twist
- Swap bourbon for whiskey or omit entirely for an alcohol-free version
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and sticky goodness — all made with pantry staples and minimal effort. It’s a meal the whole family will request again and again.
FAQs
Q1: Does the alcohol cook off?
Yes, most of the alcohol evaporates during slow cooking, leaving just flavor behind.
Q2: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the Sauté function to sear, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with quick release.
Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just be sure your slow cooker is large enough and adjust cooking time as needed.
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