Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is a dish that truly warms my heart. It reminds me of cozy family dinners and gatherings around the table. The sweet and savory flavor combo makes it a favorite in my household. Today, I am excited to share my version of this delicious recipe that I’ve been perfecting over the years.
What is Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken?
Bourbon Chicken is a dish that originated in Chinese-American cuisine. It features tender chicken cooked in a sweet sauce made from bourbon (or a similar spirit), soy sauce, and brown sugar. Despite its name, there’s typically no bourbon in the sauce. This dish has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, making it perfect for both rice and vegetables.
Why Use a Crock Pot?
I love using my crock pot because it allows me to set it and forget it. With the busy lifestyle I lead, having a meal prepared effortlessly is a big bonus. The slow cooking method infuses the flavors throughout, giving you a rich and satisfying dish. Plus, there’s something comforting about walking into your home after a long day and smelling a warm meal.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Servings: 6 servings
Chicken Ingredients:
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 Tbsp water (for thickening)
Garnish Ingredients:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for sprinkling
How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
First, chop the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook faster and soak up more flavor from the sauce. I prefer thighs because they remain juicy and tender through the slow cooking process.
Step 2: Mix Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and everything blends smoothly. This sauce will provide that signature bourbon chicken flavor.
Step 3: Combine in Crock Pot
Place the chopped chicken in the crock pot and pour the sauce over it. Give it a good stir to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated well. I like to make sure every piece gets that sweet and savory goodness.
Step 4: Cook on Low Heat
Set your crock pot to low and cook it for about 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can set it to high for 3 to 4 hours. Cooking on low gives the chicken time to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. This step adds a nice glaze to the chicken that enhances its presentation.
Serving Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to serve! I typically serve my Bourbon Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice. It soaks up the sauce beautifully, making each bite delightful. You can also serve it with steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
Bourbon Chicken keeps well in the fridge. I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container. They last about 3 to 4 days. It reheats nicely in the microwave, making it great for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing Bourbon Chicken
If you want to save some for a later date, this dish can be frozen too. Just cool it completely before transferring it into freezer-safe bags or containers. The flavor will remain intact, and it’s great for meal planning.
Variations of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Over the years, I’ve tried some variations of the recipe that you might enjoy as well:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Spice it Up: If you love spicy food, add some Sriracha or chili paste for an extra kick.
- Switch the Protein: This recipe works well with chicken breast, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information
This dish is flavorful but be mindful of your portions. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g
These values may vary based on preparation methods and ingredient choices.
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a fantastic dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s easy to make and offers a comforting, savory flavor that everyone will enjoy. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own with slight adjustments. Share it with those you love, and make memories over a delicious meal.