Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken! This recipe has been a family favorite for years because it’s not only easy to prepare but also delivers an incredible flavor that fills your home with warmth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

The best part? You can set it and forget it while you go about your day. When you return, a delightful aroma will greet you, promising tender chicken that melts in your mouth. Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, it will become a go-to in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season the chicken and let the crockpot do all the hard work!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and savory flavors of this dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or noodles, making it easy to pair with your favorite sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to make this mouthwatering dish!

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

To Thicken the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
• Add some heat: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Go veggie: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Change up the sweetness: Try using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken thighs with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat as it cooks slowly in the crockpot. Once seasoned, place them at the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together your choice of barley tea (or apple juice/chicken broth), brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until combined. Pour this luscious mixture over your seasoned chicken in the crockpot. This sauce is what makes our Crockpot Bourbon Chicken so flavorful!

Step 3: Let It Cook

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours. The slow cooking process allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while keeping that chicken tender and juicy.

Step 4: Thicken Up That Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving time, combine cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and then stir this slurry into your sauce in the crockpot. This will thicken your sauce beautifully without losing any of its great taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is ready, serve your delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Don’t forget to garnish with green onions for that extra pop! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Making Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a breeze, but these tips will help you take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless skinless chicken thighs ensures that your dish remains juicy and tender as it cooks slowly in the crockpot. Chicken breasts can dry out more easily under long cooking times.

• Don’t skip the browning step: If you have extra time, searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot adds an extra layer of flavor. The caramelization will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust sweetness to your liking: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. A little less sugar can still yield a deliciously savory sauce without being overly sweet.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.

• Experiment with flavors: Want to add a twist? Try incorporating a splash of orange juice or some ginger for a zesty variation that complements the sweetness beautifully.

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

When it comes to serving Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, presentation matters! This dish is not only delicious but can also be visually appealing when plated thoughtfully.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each serving.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds provides a delightful crunch and an additional layer of flavor.
• Cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can enhance the dish with their aromatic qualities, making it even more enticing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy grains absorb the rich bourbon sauce perfectly, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

• Roasted broccoli: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color that complements the savory chicken.

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser and work wonderfully with sauce-laden dishes like this one.

• Asian-style coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken.

Now that you’ve got all these ideas in mind, it’s time to gather your ingredients and let your crockpot do all the hard work! Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends; it’s sure to become a beloved staple at your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring delicious meals are just a reheat away.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the chicken completely before freezing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this dish, you’re not alone!

Can I use something other than bourbon in Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Yes! You can substitute bourbon with barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth for similar flavor profiles.

How do I know when my Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be tender and shred easily with a fork.

Can I double the recipe for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Absolutely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly if you add more chicken.

What can I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to keep it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this heartwarming Crockpot Bourbon Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!