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Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken simmers deliciously in a slow cooker, ready to be served as an easy weeknight meal.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Irresistible

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a luscious bourbon-infused sauce. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Cooked white rice or brown rice, for serving
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish

Equipment

  • Crock Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Fork

Method
 

  1. Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken in batches until browned on all sides. Don't worry about cooking it all the way through.
  2. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Add Chicken to the Crock Pot: Place the seared chicken (or unseared) into your crock pot.
  4. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the bourbon sauce over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are coated evenly.
  5. Cook on Low or High: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
  6. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour the slurry into the crock pot and stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken over cooked white rice or brown rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

Don't skimp on the bourbon; a decent quality one will enhance the flavor. Adjust sweetness by altering the amount of brown sugar or honey. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Chicken thighs are recommended for their flavor and moisture. The recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.