Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

The Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! This flavorful and easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. With tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory bourbon sauce, this dish brings comfort food to new heights. Impress your guests with minimal effort, and enjoy the rich aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply combine ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Savory Flavor Explosion: The blend of bourbon, soy sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or cauliflower rice to cater to different dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Great for family dinners or potlucks; everyone will love this sweet and savory chicken!
• Leftover Friendly: This dish stays delicious for days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe a breeze, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of the show; it allows for hands-off cooking that results in tender, juicy chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your sauce ingredients before pouring them over the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps to thoroughly mix ingredients together, ensuring even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed

For the Sauce

• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup bourbon whiskey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Thickening

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• ¼ cup chopped green onions

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of a slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic.
2. Pour this delicious sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on:
– High for 4 hours
– Low for 6 hours
until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. Chop or shred it to your preferred texture.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
2. Stir this slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the chopped chicken to the slow cooker. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Feel free to adjust spice levels by modifying red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken!

How to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Serving your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe can be a delightful experience. This sweet and savory dish pairs well with various sides, making it versatile for any occasion.

Over Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber for a healthier option.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that still offers great texture and taste.

In Tacos

• Soft Tortillas: Fill soft tortillas with shredded bourbon chicken for a fun twist on tacos.
• Crunchy Shells: Use crunchy taco shells for added texture and a satisfying crunch.

As Lettuce Wraps

• Romaine or Butter Lettuce: Spoon the bourbon chicken into lettuce leaves for a fresh and light meal option.

With Slaw

• Cabbage Slaw: Serve alongside a tangy cabbage slaw to add crunch and balance the sweetness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Perfecting your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe can elevate your dish to new heights. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking.

• Flavors: Adjust the amount of bourbon and spices based on your taste preferences for bolder flavors.
• Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate in the sauce overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
• Chicken Quality: Use high-quality, fresh chicken thighs for the best texture and taste.
• Thickening Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook longer after adding the cornstarch slurry.
• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for an aromatic touch.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green side that adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the bourbon sauce perfectly.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with sweet chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn balances the savory elements of the dish nicely; grill or boil for best results.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds texture and nutritional benefits alongside the rich chicken.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: For comfort food lovers, this cheesy classic makes for a delicious pairing with bourbon chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce can lead to bland flavors. Take time to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using low-quality bourbon: The type of bourbon you use impacts the overall taste of your dish. Choose a good-quality bourbon for a richer flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking the chicken: Cooking times vary depending on your slow cooker. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting the thickening step: Not using cornstarch can result in a watery sauce. Always mix cornstarch with water before adding it back into the slow cooker for a thick, satisfying sauce.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping garnishes like green onions can make your dish less appealing. Always add fresh herbs or toppings for added flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the chicken cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe that may help enhance your cooking experience.

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

Cooking takes about 4 hours on high or 6 hours on low. Always ensure your chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, adjust cooking time accordingly.

What should I serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs well with white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Fresh vegetables also complement it nicely.

Is Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken spicy?

The spice level depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and cook it when you’re ready. Just store prepped ingredients in the fridge until cooking time.

Final Thoughts

The Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! It combines sweet and savory flavors that create comfort and satisfaction. Whether you enjoy it over rice or paired with vegetables, this versatile meal can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!