Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Tender and juicy chicken thighs simmered in a brown sugar bourbon sauce all day long make this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken an irresistible dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy recipe brings the flavors of New Orleans right to your kitchen. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is flavorful and melts in your mouth, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply season the chicken, mix the sauce, and let the crockpot do the work.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a deliciously sweet and savory sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even with vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: With its appealing taste, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Time-Saving: Cooking in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it while you focus on other tasks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools ready to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This appliance allows for slow cooking, which tenderizes the chicken and blends flavors beautifully.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing sauces without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that ingredients combine smoothly, especially when creating a cornstarch slurry.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, 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 barley tea, (or 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: Season the Chicken

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

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, add 1/3 cup barley tea, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves minced garlic.
2. Stir well to combine until all ingredients are mixed thoroughly.
3. Pour this sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover with the lid.
2. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water. Whisk until combined.
2. Whisk this slurry into the sauce in the crockpot about 30 minutes before serving to thicken it up.

Step 5: Serve

1. Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice.
2. Garnish with green onions for an added touch of flavor.

Now you have an easy-to-follow recipe for making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken that everyone will love!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot bourbon chicken is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Here are some creative ways to serve this tender chicken for an unforgettable meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the bourbon chicken over steamed white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making every bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Pair the chicken with cooked egg noodles or rice noodles for a hearty option. Toss the noodles in the sauce for added flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter meal, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun, hand-held option perfect for casual dining.

On a Salad

• Top a mixed greens salad with shredded bourbon chicken. Drizzle with your favorite dressing to add freshness and crunch.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Serve alongside grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. The smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the chicken.

As Sandwiches

• Shred the chicken and serve it on toasted buns with your choice of toppings. Add coleslaw for extra crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Creating the perfect crockpot bourbon chicken is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even tastier dish.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless skinless chicken thighs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preferences; less sugar will result in a less sweet sauce.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to substitute soy sauce with low-sodium versions or even tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Depending on your crockpot model, cooking times may vary. Check your chicken at intervals to avoid overcooking.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to whisk cornstarch well into cold water before adding it to the sauce for perfect consistency.
• Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation by garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your crockpot bourbon chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and crunch.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic enhance the savory profile of the dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables offers texture and nutritional benefits.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory sauce.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the chicken.
6. Cornbread: Soft cornbread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the plate.
7. Vegetable Fried Rice: This dish adds an Asian twist and complements the bourbon flavors perfectly.
8. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad brings a refreshing element to your meal, offering a nice contrast in textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland results. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Using the wrong liquid: Substituting bourbon with water will dilute the flavor. Instead, use apple juice, barley tea, or chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Not thickening the sauce: If you skip the cornstarch step, your sauce may remain watery. Always add the cornstarch slurry 30 minutes before cooking ends for a perfect consistency.
• Overcrowding the crockpot: Filling the crockpot too full prevents even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation; avoid exceeding its capacity.
• Neglecting to garnish: Serving without garnishes can make your dish less appealing. Add chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken:

How can I make slow cooker bourbon chicken healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less brown sugar or opting for a sugar substitute. Additionally, using skinless chicken thighs lowers fat content.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or beef as alternatives that also absorb flavors beautifully.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with jackfruit or firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What sides pair well with crockpot bourbon chicken?

Serve it over rice or noodles. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also complement this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!