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This hearty crock pot bourbon chicken has been my family's favorite weeknight dinner for years. The combination of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors creates an irresistible dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Chinese restaurant but can be made right in your own kitchen with minimal effort.
I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for something different to serve at a family gathering. Everyone raved about it so much that it's now requested at every potluck and has become my go-to dish when entertaining guests who love Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier than breast meat when slow cooked
- Soy sauce provides that unmistakable umami depth that forms the base of the sauce
- Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully during cooking creating that signature sticky glaze
- Bourbon whiskey adds complexity without tasting boozy after cooking
- Ketchup might seem unusual but adds the perfect touch of tomato sweetness and acidity
- Apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness with a subtle tang
- Garlic powder and ground ginger infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth
- Red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your preference
- Cornstarch mixed with water creates the perfect thickness for that restaurant quality sauce
- Green onions add a fresh pop of color and flavor as garnish
- Rice provides the perfect canvas for soaking up all that delicious sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken
- Cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks about 1 inch in size. Making them uniform ensures they cook evenly and stay tender throughout. I like to trim any excess fat but leave a little for flavor. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to help them brown better.
- Mix the signature sauce
- Combine 1/2 cup soy sauce with 1/2 cup packed brown sugar in your slow cooker insert and stir until the sugar begins to dissolve. Add 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey followed by 1 tablespoon ketchup and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon ground ginger and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely combined and smooth.
- Add chicken to slow cooker
- Place the chicken pieces into the sauce and stir gently to ensure each piece is fully coated. This initial coating helps the chicken start absorbing flavor immediately. Spread the chicken out evenly in the slow cooker so it cooks uniformly.
- Set and forget
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to Low for 4-6 hours or High for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F and is tender enough to easily pull apart with a fork. I recommend the low setting whenever possible as it produces more tender results.
- Thicken the sauce
- About 30 minutes before serving mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry into the slow cooker and stir gently to incorporate. Replace the lid and cook on High for an additional 20-30 minutes until the sauce has thickened to a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon.
- Serve and garnish
- Spoon the bourbon chicken over freshly cooked rice and garnish generously with sliced green onions. The contrast between the sticky sweet chicken and the fresh green onions creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
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The bourbon in this recipe is truly transformative. While many people worry about the alcohol content I can assure you that after hours of slow cooking virtually all the alcohol cooks off leaving behind only the deep caramel and vanilla notes that make bourbon so special. My husband who typically dislikes any dish with alcohol absolutely devours this chicken and requests it regularly.
Perfect Pairings
This bourbon chicken pairs beautifully with more than just white rice. For a complete meal I often serve it alongside steamed broccoli or a simple Asian slaw with shredded cabbage carrots and a rice vinegar dressing. The vegetables provide a fresh contrast to the rich chicken. For a lower carb option cauliflower rice works wonderfully or try serving the chicken in lettuce cups for a fun handheld option that kids and adults both enjoy.
Make It Your Own
While this recipe is delicious as written dont be afraid to customize it to your tastes. For a spicier version double the red pepper flakes or add a tablespoon of sriracha. If you prefer a fruitier profile add a tablespoon of orange marmalade or pineapple juice to the sauce. Vegetarians can substitute firm tofu or tempeh for the chicken just be sure to press and drain the tofu well before cutting into cubes.
Storage and Reheating
This bourbon chicken actually improves with time as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it will have thickened considerably in the refrigerator. Microwave in short intervals stirring between each until heated through or gently warm on the stovetop over medium low heat. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well as a leaner alternative. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on low setting.
- → What can I substitute for the bourbon?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the bourbon with apple juice mixed with 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. You'll get a similar flavor profile without the alcohol content.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon or add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce to the mixture. You could also include fresh minced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes exceptionally well. Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water if needed.
- → What sides pair well with bourbon chicken?
Beyond the classic rice pairing, steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad complement the rich flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, consider serving with garlic bread or vegetable spring rolls.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to easily shred with a fork. In most slow cookers, this takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.