Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: Sweet, Savory & Slow-Cooked Perfection

Introduction

What if you could enjoy restaurant-style Bourbon Chicken at home—without standing over the stove? That’s the beauty of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken.

This recipe transforms tender chicken into a slow-cooked masterpiece with a glaze of bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices. Despite its name, Bourbon Chicken originated in New Orleans’ Bourbon Street (not Kentucky bourbon distilleries), and it has since become a global comfort food favorite. Data trends show that slow cooker chicken recipes are searched 35% more often in the fall and winter months, making this dish a seasonal crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients List

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, cut into chunks)
• 1/2 cup bourbon (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)

Substitutions & Variations:

• Use honey instead of brown sugar for a more natural sweetness.
• Swap bourbon with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
• Add diced bell peppers or broccoli for extra vegetables.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–6 hours on low (or 2–3 hours on high)
• Total Time: 4–6 hours, 10 minutes

Insight: Compared to stovetop Bourbon Chicken (which takes ~45 minutes), the Crock Pot version saves time by being hands-off while delivering deeper flavor infusion.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks and place in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Cook Low & Slow

• Pour sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours (or high for 2–3 hours).

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

• About 20 minutes before serving, stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cover again and let it cook until glossy.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 720mg

Insight: Using chicken thighs keeps the dish tender, but chicken breasts reduce fat and calories by ~15%.

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Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut sodium content by up to 40%.
• Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit for a lower-glycemic option.
• Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Add extra vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or snap peas for more nutrients.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with white rice, jasmine rice, or fried rice for a classic pairing.
• Wrap in lettuce cups for a low-carb Asian-style meal.
• Pair with roasted broccoli, sesame green beans, or stir-fried bok choy.
• Add crushed peanuts or cashews on top for crunch.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking chicken: Even in a slow cooker, chicken can dry out if cooked too long. Stick to recommended times.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry: Without thickening, sauce may be too runny.
• Using only chicken breasts: Breasts dry out faster; thighs give better texture.
• Not tasting the sauce: Adjust sweetness, saltiness, and spice before finishing.

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Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Make sauce a day ahead to save prep time.

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Conclusion

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is the ultimate sweet-and-savory dish that’s simple, flavorful, and family-approved. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing the work, you’ll have tender chicken coated in a glossy, sticky sauce perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Try it out, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more cozy, slow cooker recipes!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken without alcohol?
A1: Yes! Substitute apple juice or pineapple juice for bourbon.

Q2: Can I use frozen chicken?
A2: It’s best to thaw first for even cooking, but you can use frozen if you add an extra 30–40 minutes.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
A3: Yes, just make sure your slow cooker isn’t more than 3/4 full.

Q4: How do I make this spicier?
A4: Add sriracha, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.

Q5: What sides go best with this dish?
A5: Rice, steamed broccoli, stir-fried veggies, or noodles pair beautifully.