Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Indulge in the flavors of the South with this melt-in-your-mouth Crockpot Bourbon Chicken. Originating from the vibrant streets of New Orleans, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with a rich brown sugar bourbon sauce, creating a meal that’s both comforting and irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free dinner that tastes like it took hours of effort. With just a few minutes of preparation, you’ll have a hearty dish simmering away, filling your home with its enticing aroma. Let’s dive into how to make this classic recipe a staple in your kitchen.

 

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6 people.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup bourbon, whiskey, apple juice, or chicken broth (choose based on preference)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
2. Mince the garlic cloves and measure out all your other ingredients for easy access during cooking.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot

1. Place the seasoned chicken thighs at the bottom of your crockpot.
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the bourbon (or your chosen liquid), brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat for 4 hours or high heat for 2.5 hours. Allow the chicken to slowly absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the crockpot and set aside on a plate.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
3. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the crockpot. Switch the heat to high and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken thighs to the crockpot, coating them generously with the thickened sauce.
2. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a side of buttery dinner rolls for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Choosing the Liquid: If you prefer not to use alcohol, apple juice or chicken broth works beautifully without compromising flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 9g

 

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is the epitome of effortless comfort food. Its tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a sweet and savory sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe’s simplicity and rich flavors make it a must-try for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re savoring it on a rainy evening or serving it at a family gathering, this dish brings a taste of New Orleans right to your table. So, pull out your crockpot and give this iconic recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!