If you’re craving a dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and just a hint of boozy warmth, you have to try this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe. This crowd-pleaser is every bit as irresistible as your favorite mall food court classic, only it’s done at home and made easier with the magic of the slow cooker. Succulent chicken thighs simmer all day in a sauce that’s sticky, rich, and laced with bourbon, making it an absolute sensation atop a bowl of fluffy rice. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re looking to impress friends at your next dinner gathering, this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe never fails to steal the spotlight.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this recipe so special: every ingredient is purposefully chosen to bring out the best in flavor, texture, and color. Don’t let the simplicity fool you; each one plays a starring role, coming together for a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking and ultra-tender chicken every time.
1/2 cup soy sauce: Adds deep, savory base notes and a gorgeous caramel hue.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Brings the signature sweetness and that fantastic sticky glaze you want in bourbon chicken.
1/4 cup bourbon: Delivers a mild, smoky warmth that makes this dish completely unforgettable.
1 tablespoon ketchup: Lends a subtle tang that keeps the sauce from turning out too sweet.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness, balancing the sauce perfectly.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives depth and a robust backbone to the entire dish.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, making every bite pop.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle heat, this is the perfect touch.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce into that beautiful, glossy finish.
2 tablespoons water: Combines with cornstarch to create a lump-free slurry.
2 green onions: Sliced for garnish, they bring a fresh pop of flavor and a lovely color contrast.
Cooked rice: The essential base—rice soaks up all that incredible sauce for a complete meal.

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by making sure all your ingredients are measured, prepped, and ready. It’s a little thing, but trust me—it makes everything about the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe feel like a breeze. Having the chicken cut, sauce elements set out, and rice ready to go means you’ll cruise right through the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces. This step isn’t just for looks—it makes sure every morsel cooks evenly and gets blanketed in that lush bourbon sauce. Prefer white meat? Chicken breasts can be swapped in without missing a beat, just be sure the pieces are all roughly the same size for even tenderness.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). This quick step creates the flavor foundation of your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe. Give it a good whisk until the sugar dissolves and everything’s well-blended.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Place the chicken pieces into your crock pot, then pour the sparkling sauce right over the top. Stir gently to coat every piece, letting the flavors start to mingle. This is where the magic begins: as it cooks, the chicken soaks up every drop of that bourbon-infused sauce.

Step 5: Set the Cooking Time

Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it on low for 4-6 hours, or high for 2-3 hours if you’re short on time. The Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is super forgiving—just check for chicken that’s cooked through and sauce that’s rich and aromatic.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a smooth slurry. Stir this into the crock pot, cover, and let the sauce thicken as it finishes cooking. You’ll see the magic happen as the sauce transforms into that gorgeous glaze you crave.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the rich, glossy bourbon chicken over a generous scoop of cooked rice. Sprinkle with green onions for a pop of color and freshness. That first bite—sweet, savory, with just a hint of bourbon—is pure joy.

How to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing brightens up this dish quite like a healthy sprinkle of sliced green onions or even a handful of toasted sesame seeds. If you love a bit of crunch, try topping your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe with chopped peanuts or cashews—they add delightful texture and a nutty finish.

Side Dishes

This chicken is absolutely made for white rice, but you can switch things up with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even fluffy quinoa. For a veggie boost, serve with steamed broccoli, sautéed snap peas, or a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. Every bite feels like a restaurant meal in your own kitchen.

Creative Ways to Present

Make party-friendly bourbon chicken sliders by piling the chicken onto mini buns with slaw. Or, keep things light and fresh with lettuce wraps. For a stunning family-style meal, arrange the chicken and rice on a big platter and let everyone dig in—a true showstopper for gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe stores like a dream. Transfer any extras into an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors get even more developed overnight, making leftover dinners a treat!

Freezing

If you have more than you’ll eat in a few days, freeze the chicken (without rice) in airtight freezer bags or containers. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready for another taste of that sticky-sweet sauce.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent sticking. If needed, splash in a tablespoon of water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Serve over fresh rice for the ultimate leftover revival.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work great if you prefer a leaner cut. Just be sure to cut them into similarly sized pieces so they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Does the alcohol cook out in this recipe?

The majority of the alcohol in the bourbon evaporates during the slow cooking process, leaving behind only a mild, savory sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s family-friendly and safe for everyone to enjoy.

Can I make this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version or tamari. Be sure to check your ketchup and other condiments, too, to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Is there a substitute for bourbon?

If you’d rather skip the bourbon, you can substitute with the same amount of apple juice, pineapple juice, or even chicken broth. Each brings its own unique twist, so go with what fits your taste!

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is fairly mild as written, but you can turn up the heat by adding extra red pepper flakes, a touch of hot sauce, or thinly sliced fresh chilies. Adjust to suit your spice preference and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe brings so much joy to the dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s easy, incredibly satisfying, and always gets rave reviews. Don’t be surprised if this cozy, saucy chicken becomes a regular request in your household—give it a try, and let those sweet, savory aromas win you over!

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 26 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Indulge in the rich and flavorful Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe that combines tender chicken with a sticky, sweet, and savory bourbon-infused sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week!

Instructions

Gather Your Ingredients – Before you start cooking, gather all ingredients for organization.
Prepare the Chicken – Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Mix the Sauce – Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, vinegar, spices, and red pepper flakes.
Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot – Place chicken in the crock pot and pour sauce over it.
Set the Cooking Time – Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Serve and Enjoy – Thicken sauce with cornstarch, serve over rice, and garnish with green onions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on low
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American