Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Tender and juicy chicken thighs simmered in a brown sugar bourbon sauce all day long. Your family will love this melt-in-your-mouth crockpot bourbon chicken. A classic New Orleans recipe made easy in the crockpot, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of Preparation: Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a deliciously sweet and savory sauce.
• Versatile Meal: Serve over rice, noodles, or even on a bed of greens for a healthy twist.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tender chicken and flavorful sauce.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just cook and store for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, you’ll need a few essential tools. Gathering them beforehand will help streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: The star of the show! It allows you to cook low and slow, making meat incredibly tender.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before adding them to the crockpot, ensuring an even mix.
• Whisk: Great for creating smooth mixtures, especially when blending cornstarch with water for thickening the sauce.

Ingredients

To create 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 bourbon, (substituted with 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 your crockpot.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves garlic.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook in the Crockpot

1. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
2. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water until combined.
2. Add this cornstarch slurry into the sauce about 30 minutes before cooking time is up to thicken it.

Step 5: Serve

1. Enjoy your flavorful chicken over rice or noodles.
2. Garnish with green onions if desired for an extra pop of flavor!

This recipe serves about 6 people and makes an excellent meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot bourbon chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides. It can be served in many ways to enhance the meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dinner.

Over Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – The fragrant grains absorb the sauce beautifully, making each bite delicious.
• Brown Rice – A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce while keeping it light.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli – Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus – The earthy flavor complements the sweetness of the bourbon sauce.
• Sauteed Green Beans – Quick to prepare, they provide a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps – For a fun twist, serve the chicken in large lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.
• Tortilla Wraps – Use soft tortillas for an easy-to-handle meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

To ensure your crockpot bourbon chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken – Fresh, boneless skinless chicken thighs yield the best results in terms of flavor and tenderness.
• Season Generously – Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Use a Good Sauce Mix – Ensure that your bourbon substitute (like apple juice or broth) is high quality for a rich flavor profile.
• Cook Low and Slow – Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the chicken incredibly tender.
• Thicken with Cornstarch – Adding cornstarch mixed with cold water thickens the sauce perfectly just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Pairing side dishes with crockpot bourbon chicken can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the dish well.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw balances out the rich flavors of the chicken while adding freshness.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with veggies can add nutritious value while complementing the meal’s flavors.
5. Grilled Zucchini – This simple side adds color and freshness, enhancing your plate visually and nutritionally.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet and healthy, these provide a satisfying addition alongside savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper before adding the sauce.

• Not allowing enough cooking time: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough chicken. For the best texture, cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours.

• Ignoring the sauce thickening step: Forgetting to add the cornstarch slurry towards the end will leave you with a watery sauce. Be sure to mix it in 30 minutes before serving.

• Overcrowding the crockpot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amounts for best results.

• Skipping garnishes: Not garnishing with green onions misses an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. Always finish your dish with a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, heat on medium power in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken:

What is Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a tender chicken dish simmered in a sweet and savory sauce made without alcohol. It’s perfect for family dinners!

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer a different protein while keeping the recipe flavorful.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook. This makes dinner time easy!

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its rich flavors that will surely please your family!