Introduction to Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I believe the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish! It’s not just about the ease of preparation; it’s about creating a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the family. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of tender chicken simmering in a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both sweet and savory. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner, making it a delicious and practical choice for any weeknight.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing all the flavors.
- Bourbon: This adds a rich depth of flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Brown sugar: It brings sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze we all love.
- Soy sauce: This adds a savory umami kick. For a gluten-free option, use tamari.
- Ketchup: It balances the flavors with a hint of tanginess.
- Apple cider vinegar: This adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- Ground ginger: It adds warmth and a subtle spice that complements the bourbon.
- Black pepper: A dash of this enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Green onions: These are for garnish, adding a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can add veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken. I promise, it’s as easy as pie!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in your Crock Pot. I love using thighs because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you’re in a rush, you can even use frozen chicken. Just remember to adjust the cooking time a bit!
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until the sugar dissolves. The aroma will make your mouth water! This sauce is the heart of the dish, so don’t skip this step.
Step 3: Combine in the Crock Pot
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the Crock Pot. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. This is where the magic happens! The flavors will meld beautifully as it cooks, creating a deliciously sticky glaze.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually opt for low and slow, as it makes the chicken incredibly tender. If you’re home, give it a little stir halfway through. It’s like a warm hug for your dinner!
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the pot. Stir it back into the sauce for that perfect blend of flavors. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. You can’t go wrong with this dish!
Tips for Success
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Don’t skip the garlic; it adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the bourbon to your taste; less for a milder flavor.
- Pair with rice or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so make extra!
Equipment Needed for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
- Crock Pot: A slow cooker is essential. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works too.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the sauce. Any bowl will do!
- Measuring Cups: Handy for accurate ingredient portions.
- Forks: For shredding the chicken. You can also use tongs!
Variations of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
- Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Vegetable-Loaded Version: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
- Honey Bourbon Chicken: Substitute half of the brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness profile.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to keep it low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or use coconut aminos for a similar flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
- Serve over rice: White or brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Pair with noodles: Lo mein or rice noodles add a delightful twist.
- Fresh salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the chicken.
- Drink pairing: A light white wine or iced tea complements the flavors.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color!
FAQs about Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I prefer thighs for their juiciness, chicken breasts work just fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster.
Is this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This way, you can enjoy the dish without any worries.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken the night before. Just pop it in the Crock Pot in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you!
What can I serve with Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with steamed veggies for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy the flavors all over again!
Final Thoughts on Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish!
Cooking this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The joy of coming home to a warm, inviting aroma fills my heart with happiness. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings my family together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. I hope you find as much joy in making it as I do. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe is a must-try dish!
Print
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe: A Delicious Must-Try!
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in the Crock Pot.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the Crock Pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Adjust the amount of bourbon to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg