why make this recipe
Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is a delicious and easy meal to prepare. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it irresistible. Using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, letting the chicken cook slowly until it’s tender and full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
how to make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 5 cloves crushed garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cups prepared brown rice
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, bourbon, brown sugar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and pour the marinade over the top. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for best results.
- Coat a crockpot with cooking spray and arrange the marinated chicken thighs inside. Pour the marinade on top.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and place it on a plate to keep warm.
- Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then mix it into the cooking liquid.
- Heat the mixture until it thickens, then pour the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with green onions.
- Serve warm with brown rice.
how to serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over a bed of brown rice for a hearty meal. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining sauce over your dish for extra deliciousness!
how to store Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and maple syrup.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option. Additionally, for a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the bourbon with apple juice or more apple cider vinegar.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours on LOW.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, apple juice or chicken broth can be good substitutes.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and then cook it in the crockpot.
Crockpot Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 0.5 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 0.25 cup bourbon
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar Adjust for sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup Adjust for sweetness.
- 5 cloves crushed garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 0.25 cup chopped green onions For garnish.
- 2 cups prepared brown rice For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, bourbon, brown sugar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and pour the marinade over the top. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for best results.
Cooking
- Coat a crockpot with cooking spray and arrange the marinated chicken thighs inside. Pour the marinade on top.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and place it on a plate to keep warm.
- Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then mix it into the cooking liquid.
- Heat the mixture until it thickens, then pour the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with green onions.
Serving
- Serve Crockpot Bourbon Chicken over a bed of brown rice. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Drizzle any remaining sauce over your dish for extra deliciousness!