If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines sweet, savory, and a touch of sass, look no further than this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe. The saucy, sticky glaze—perfectly wrapping around tender bites of chicken—always gets rave reviews at my table. This simple yet flavor-packed dish is perfect for a fuss-free weeknight dinner or to impress at your next family gathering. Best of all, everything comes together in your trusty slow cooker, so you can sit back and savor the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks!

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe such a winner is how approachable the ingredient list is—each item adds something crucial, whether it’s color, depth, or that signature stickiness everyone loves. These pantry staples turn ordinary chicken into something irresistibly crave-worthy.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 pound): Cut into bite-sized pieces for tenderness and flavor that soaks up every bit of sauce.
Soy sauce (1/2 cup): Brings a rich, savory backbone that balances the sweetness of the dish.
Packed brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds warmth and creates that sticky, caramel finish that bourbon chicken is known for.
Bourbon (1/4 cup): The star of the show—just enough to add a mellow, smoky essence without overpowering.
Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Offers subtle tanginess, tying all the sauce flavors together.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Gives the dish a welcome lift and balances out the sweetness.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes and adds depth without overpowering the sauce.
Ground ginger (1 teaspoon): Lends a gentle warmth and aromatic spice that makes the flavors pop.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Sprinkle in extra if you want a little tingle of heat with your sweet.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): This is your ticket to glossy, thick, restaurant-style sauce.
Water (2 tablespoons): Combines with cornstarch for an easy thickening slurry.
Green onions (2, sliced): For a fresh, colorful finish that brightens each bite.
Cooked rice (for serving): The classic partner, soaking up all that luscious sauce.

How to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Arrange Your Ingredients

Start by getting organized—gather and measure out all your ingredients for the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing everything ready to go, and it makes the whole process more relaxing (and fun!).

Step 2: Chop the Chicken

Cut your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into even, bite-sized pieces. This ensures quick, uniform cooking and lets every piece get coated in that irresistible sauce. If you’re using chicken breasts instead, make sure to keep the pieces similar in size for the best results.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and (if you like a kick) those red pepper flakes. Take a big whiff—this is when you know the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe is about to become something special, with layer after layer of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

Step 4: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Add your chicken pieces to the crock pot. Pour the sauce evenly over the top, then gently stir to make sure every piece is coated. This is where the magic begins—the slow cooker will work its wonders, melding all those vibrant flavors with no effort from you.

Step 5: Set and Forget

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for about 2 to 3 hours. Check occasionally if it’s your first time—every crock pot is a little different. You want juicy, fork-tender chicken and a bubbling sauce that’s impossible to resist.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce & Serve

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry; gently stir it into the crock pot. This step transforms the sauce into that silky, coating glaze everyone loves. Once thickened, spoon the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice and top generously with sliced green onions. Your kitchen should smell absolutely divine!

How to Serve Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of sliced green onions is classic, adding both crunch and color. If you want to go the extra mile, a quick scatter of sesame seeds gives a nutty note and a restaurant-worthy finish. For a pop of freshness, toss on a handful of chopped cilantro just before serving.

Side Dishes

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe shines brightest over a heap of hot, fluffy white rice—simple, comforting, and perfect for soaking up the sauce. It’s also excellent with brown rice, steamed broccoli, or even roasted sweet potatoes on the side for that salty-sweet balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bourbon chicken in lettuce cups for a light, handheld twist. Turn it into a rice bowl with steamed veggies and shredded carrots for color, or pile it onto slider buns as a sweet-savory party snack. The sticky sauce is an instant crowd-pleaser in just about any form!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Transfer any remaining Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

You can easily freeze this dish for easy future dinners. Let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in single-serving or family-size portions—just be sure to leave a bit of space at the top of each container for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply return the chicken and sauce to a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring now and then until bubbly. You can microwave smaller portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, to keep the chicken moist and the sauce silky.

FAQs

Does the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe actually taste like bourbon?

The bourbon adds a warm, caramel richness but doesn’t overpower the dish—it blends seamlessly with the brown sugar and soy sauce, creating a hint of smokiness without a strong alcohol flavor. The alcohol cooks off during the long simmer, leaving just pure depth of flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option, but keep in mind they tend to cook a bit faster and may not be quite as juicy. Just watch your cook time and cut the pieces evenly for the best texture.

Is the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe spicy?

It’s not spicy by default—just a gentle warmth from the ginger, unless you add more red pepper flakes. You have full control: make it as mild or fiery as your family likes.

What kind of bourbon should I use?

No need for anything fancy—a standard, mid-range bourbon is great. Choose one you’d enjoy sipping on its own for the best results, but save the high-end stuff for your glass!

How can I make this gluten-free?

It’s easy: just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari or coconut aminos. Double-check that all ingredients (including your vinegar and ketchup) are certified gluten-free if needed.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to taste the layers of flavor and ease that this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe brings to your dinner table. It’s a dish that never disappoints—tender chicken, a sticky-sweet sauce, and the kind of comfort food coziness that everyone craves. Give it a try, share it with family or friends, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your home too!

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

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

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a savory bourbon-infused sauce, served over fluffy rice – a true crowd-pleaser!

Instructions

Gather Your Ingredients: Before cooking, ensure you have all ingredients ready.
Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into pieces.
Mix the Sauce: Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, vinegar, spices.
Combine in Crock Pot: Place chicken in pot, pour sauce over, and mix gently.
Set 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, garnish with green onions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American