Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

November 29, 2025

Updated:

November 29, 2025

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Tender and juicy, Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a dish that transforms simple chicken thighs into a flavorful masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich brown sugar bourbon sauce, your loved ones will be asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and packed with flavors, this classic New Orleans dish made in the crockpot is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Simply season the chicken and let the crockpot do the work while you enjoy your day.
Rich Flavor: The combination of bourbon, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a sweet and savory sauce that elevates the chicken.
Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even as a filling in wraps for varied meal options.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish can easily serve six people, making it ideal for family dinners or parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This is essential for slow-cooking your chicken to perfection while keeping it tender and juicy.
Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when preparing sauces or slurries.

Ingredients

The following ingredients are required to create this delicious Crockpot Bourbon Chicken:

For the Chicken

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and pepper, (to taste)

For the Sauce

1/3 cup bourbon, (whiskey, apple juice, or chicken broth)
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, (minced)

For Thickening

2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons cold water

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs generously with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves garlic.
Stir well until all ingredients are blended.
Pour this mixture over the seasoned chicken in the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot with its lid.
Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water. Whisk until combined.
Add this cornstarch slurry to the sauce in the crockpot about 30 minutes before cooking time ends to thicken it up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve your Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over rice or noodles.
Garnish with finely chopped parsley before serving.

This comforting dish promises to delight everyone at your table!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, there are plenty of serving options to please everyone’s palate.

Over Rice

Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious bourbon sauce.
Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

In Tacos

Soft Flour Tortillas: Fill warm tortillas with shredded bourbon chicken for a tasty twist on taco night.
Corn Tortillas: For a gluten-free alternative, corn tortillas add a delightful crunch.

As a Sandwich

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches: Serve the bourbon chicken on toasted buns with coleslaw for added crunch.
Slider Bites: Create mini sandwiches for parties or game day snacks.

With Salads

Asian-Inspired Salad: Top mixed greens with bourbon chicken, mandarin oranges, and sesame dressing for a refreshing meal.
Wedge Salad: Add chunks of bourbon chicken to a wedge of iceberg lettuce drizzled with blue cheese dressing.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your crockpot bourbon chicken, consider these helpful tips.

Bold seasoning: Season the chicken well with kosher salt and pepper before adding it to the crockpot for enhanced flavor.
Quality bourbon: Use a good-quality bourbon for the sauce; it will significantly improve the taste of your dish.
Thicken wisely: Prepare the cornstarch slurry at the right time; adding it 30 minutes before cooking ends allows for perfect sauce thickness.
Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to complete your meal.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for soaking up the sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: A healthy option that adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of bourbon chicken perfectly.
Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw balances out the tenderness of the chicken while adding freshness.
Fried Rice: An Asian twist that incorporates veggies and soy sauce, enhancing your dining experience.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide an additional layer of flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can greatly enhance your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken thighs can lead to bland flavors. Always season with Kosher salt and pepper before cooking.
Using too much liquid: Adding too much bourbon or soy sauce can make the dish overly salty. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
Not thickening the sauce: Forgetting to add the cornstarch slurry at the right time will leave you with a watery sauce. Add it 30 minutes before cooking finishes for the best texture.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking beyond the suggested time can dry out your chicken thighs. Use a timer and check for doneness at the recommended cooking times.
Skipping garnishes: Neglecting to garnish with green onions can make your dish less visually appealing. A few fresh herbs enhance both presentation and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

You can freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Ensure all excess air is removed from the bag before sealing.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the chicken in a baking dish. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a popular dish that often raises questions among home cooks. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

Using chicken breasts is possible, but they may dry out more easily than thighs due to less fat content. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Crockpot Bourbon Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Bourbon Chicken on low?

Cooking on low takes approximately 4 hours for tender and juicy chicken that absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Yes! You can reduce sugar by using less brown sugar or opting for sugar substitutes. Additionally, serving it over cauliflower rice can decrease carbs.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken stands out as an easy yet flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its tender chicken and savory sauce offer endless possibilities for customization; consider adding veggies or adjusting sweetness levels according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful versatility!