Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a simple, comforting dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy bourbon sauce. The sauce, made with brown sugar, soy sauce, and a splash of real bourbon, seeps into the chicken as it cooks low and slow, creating a mouthwatering glaze that’s both sticky and full of flavor.
I love how easy this recipe is to put together—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while I get on with my day. The aroma that fills the kitchen is always a pleasant surprise, and you don’t need to fuss with fancy techniques or ingredients to get a tasty homemade meal on the table.
My favorite way to enjoy Bourbon Chicken is over a bed of fluffy rice, with some steamed veggies on the side. The sauce soaks into the rice perfectly, making every bite cozy and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great dish to serve when friends come over because it feels like a special treat, but it’s really effortless to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless thighs for their tenderness and flavor. They stay juicy during slow cooking. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts can work but may be less moist.
Bourbon Whiskey: Real bourbon adds authentic flavor, but if you prefer no alcohol, try apple juice or a splash of vanilla extract for sweetness.
Soy Sauce: This gives the sauce its salty, umami kick. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Brown Sugar & Ketchup: These bring sweetness and depth. You can swap ketchup with tomato paste mixed with a bit of honey if you want less tang.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best for their bright, zesty zing. Ground versions can work but use less (about half the amount).
How Do I Get the Sauce Thick and Glossy in the Crock Pot?
Slow cookers often produce thin sauces, so thickening is key for that perfect glaze. Follow these tips:
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry before adding it to avoid lumps.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the crock pot and turn the heat to high.
- Keep the lid off, if your crock pot allows, so steam can escape and the sauce thickens well.
- Stir occasionally to check consistency and prevent sticking.
This method creates that sticky, shiny sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot/slow cooker – perfect for cooking the chicken low and slow, making it tender without much effort.
- Medium mixing bowl – to whisk together the bourbon sauce ingredients easily before adding to the crock pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate sauce measurements to get the right balance of flavors.
- Small bowl – to mix cornstarch and water slurry; this helps thicken the sauce smoothly.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – to stir the sauce and chicken gently without scratching your crock pot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for boneless pork shoulder for a different meat taste that stays juicy in the slow cooker.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas 30 minutes before serving for extra crunch and color.
- Stir in crushed pineapple during cooking for a sweet, tropical twist that pairs well with bourbon.
- Use honey instead of brown sugar for a lighter, floral sweetness and a slightly different glaze texture.
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 4 to 6 hours of slow cooking. Add another 30 minutes to thicken the sauce near the end. Overall, plan for about 4 and a half to 6 and a half hours from start to finish, but most of that is hands-off cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces into your crock pot. This is the base for your delicious dish.
2. Make the Bourbon Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well for a rich, flavorful sauce.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the bourbon sauce over the chicken pieces in the crock pot. Gently stir to make sure all the chicken is coated with the sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Stir this slurry into the crock pot, cover, and increase the heat to high. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky finish.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the bourbon chicken over warm cooked white rice. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh and colorful garnish. Enjoy your tasty, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and food safety.
Can I Make Bourbon Chicken Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! Substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of apple juice or chicken broth mixed with a splash of vanilla extract to keep the sweet, rich flavor without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bourbon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Yes! Add veggies like sliced bell peppers or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they stay crisp and vibrant alongside the tender chicken.