Best Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the rich, savory taste of this Best Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe! Tender chicken thighs slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy bourbon glaze create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables, making it a go-to favorite for families and gatherings. Enjoy a taste of Southern comfort right at home!
This recipe is a classic comfort dish that brings a taste of the South to your dinner table.
A Southern Classic
Bourbon chicken has become a beloved dish across the United States, particularly in the Southern region. Its origins can be traced back to Chinese-American cuisine, gaining popularity in many restaurants. This recipe delivers a homemade version that captures the essence of the dish with minimal effort required. Every bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a favorite for dinner tables and gatherings alike.
This Best Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe transforms the angle of traditional cooking by utilizing a slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in tender chicken that practically falls off the bone. With this straightforward approach, even novice cooks can impress family and friends with an extraordinary meal.
Perfect Pairings
When you think about serving bourbon chicken, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire dining experience. Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice absorbs the delicious bourbon glaze, ensuring not a drop goes to waste. Alternatively, steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas complement the savory sweetness of the chicken beautifully, creating a vibrant and nutritious plate.
For those looking to add a touch of Southern flair, consider serving the chicken alongside cornbread or coleslaw. These classic sides add unique textures and flavors, balancing the rich taste of the bourbon chicken while keeping the meal comforting and hearty.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Mix ingredients well to ensure the chicken is coated.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the bourbon mixture over them. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken if desired, and serve with rice or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your homemade Bourbon Chicken!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover bourbon chicken, don't worry! This dish stores remarkably well and can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Place the leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, making the leftovers even tastier than the first serving.
To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. This versatility extends its life and provides you with another delicious meal without any extra cooking effort.
Customizing Your Bourbon Chicken
One of the best parts about this bourbon chicken recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tanginess by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar and ketchup. For those who enjoy a hint of spiciness, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Additionally, swapping chicken thighs for chicken breasts can alter the dish's texture while still maintaining its beloved flavors. However, keep in mind that chicken thighs provide a juicier and richer flavor due to their higher fat content, resulting in a more succulent dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook faster than thighs.
Best Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Savor the rich, savory taste of this Best Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe! Tender chicken thighs slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy bourbon glaze create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables, making it a go-to favorite for families and gatherings. Enjoy a taste of Southern comfort right at home!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the bourbon mixture over them. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken if desired, and serve with rice or steamed vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g