Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Tender and juicy chicken thighs simmered in a brown sugar bourbon sauce all day long make for an irresistible dish. This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist. Its ease of preparation and rich flavors ensure it stands out at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season the chicken and let the crockpot do all the work while you go about your day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce delivers a sweet and savory taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish over rice, noodles, or even with veggies for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: With tender chicken and delightful sauce, it’s sure to please picky eaters.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals without constant attention.
• Mixing Bowl: A medium mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients before adding them to the crockpot.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to ensure even mixing when creating sauces or thickening agents.

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and pepper, (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup bourbon substitute, (barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon substitute, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves garlic.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover with the lid and set your crockpot to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water. Whisk until combined.
2. Add this cornstarch slurry into the sauce 30 minutes before cooking is complete to thicken it up.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Enjoy your delicious chicken over rice or noodles.
2. Garnish with green onions if desired for added flavor!

This recipe serves approximately 6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer it over a comforting bed of rice or with fresh vegetables, there are plenty of delicious serving options.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the rich sauce.

With Noodles

• Pair it with egg noodles for a hearty meal that combines tender chicken with savory flavors.

On a Salad

• For a lighter option, shred the chicken and serve it atop mixed greens, drizzled with your favorite dressing.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with chicken and topped with avocado and salsa for a fun twist.

With Vegetables

• Serve alongside roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables for a nutritious and balanced meal.

As a Sandwich

• Shred the chicken and pile it onto crusty bread or buns for a satisfying sandwich option.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Perfecting your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose the right cut: Boneless skinless chicken thighs are best for this recipe as they stay juicy and tender during long cooking times.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.

• Add spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes or black pepper for an extra kick that complements the sweetness of the sauce.

• Thicken wisely: Always add cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking to achieve the perfect sauce consistency without losing its flavor.

• Garnish well: Fresh green onions or sesame seeds make excellent garnishes that add color and flavor right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the chicken.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.

3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken, adding texture and brightness.

4. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious quinoa salad brings a nutty flavor that complements the sweet notes of the bourbon sauce.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes well with the dish’s flavors while providing fiber.

6. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds make for an elegant side dish that’s also quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides with salt and pepper for better taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for juicy results.
• Neglecting to thicken the sauce: If you forget to add the cornstarch slurry, your sauce may be too thin. Remember to mix it in 30 minutes before serving.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap soy sauce or brown sugar can affect the overall flavor. Invest in good quality ingredients for the best outcome.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can result in lost juices. Let it rest briefly before serving for maximum tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use turkey or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just add them halfway through cooking.

What should I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that your family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with various sides or additional vegetables. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; it might just become a family favorite!