If you’re searching for a dish that combines sweet, savory, and just the right amount of kick, this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is destined to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. With minimal prep and big flavor payoff, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy Sunday dinners, or anytime you want to impress without the stress.
Rich with the deep caramel notes of brown sugar and bourbon, balanced by the salty umami of soy sauce and the warmth of garlic, this dish transforms tender chicken thighs into mouthwatering morsels that melt in your mouth. Best of all? The slow cooker does most of the work for you.
Who Will Love This Recipe
Whether you’re a home cook looking for easy weeknight dinners, a slow-cooker enthusiast, or someone seeking restaurant-quality flavor without the restaurant price, this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is for you. It’s especially perfect for:
- Families (kid-approved!)
- Busy professionals who want dinner waiting when they get home
- Meal preppers planning ahead for the week
- Anyone craving Chinese takeout-style comfort food at home
Why This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Is So Great
This dish checks all the boxes:
✅ Minimal prep – Just a few minutes of hands-on time
✅ Incredible flavor – A beautiful blend of sweet, salty, and savory
✅ Hands-off cooking – Let your slow cooker do all the work
✅ Crowd-pleaser – It’s a hit with kids and adults alike
✅ Versatile – Serve it over rice, noodles, or veggies
The combination of bourbon and brown sugar creates a sticky glaze that clings to every tender bite of chicken. And if you’re worried about alcohol, rest assured: the bourbon cooks down during the slow cooking and sauce reduction process, leaving only its rich, smoky flavor behind.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup bourbon
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 Tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Remove the chicken thighs from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with a bit of salt and pepper. Place the thighs in a single layer at the bottom of your crock pot.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Place the lid on the crock pot and set it to low for about 4 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and set aside on a plate. Pour the remaining sauce into a medium saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to form a slurry. Slowly pour this into the boiling sauce while whisking. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, then reduce the heat to a simmer to allow it to reduce further.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Return the chicken to the crock pot and pour the thickened sauce over it. Use a fork to shred the chicken into large chunks and mix gently. Serve over fluffy rice and top with sliced green onions, if desired.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Crock pot / slow cooker
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
- Small bowl (for cornstarch slurry)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or a fork for shredding
- Paper towels
Tips & Tricks for Success
- Use boneless thighs: Chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful through long cooking times. You can sub with chicken breasts, but they may be slightly drier.
- Don’t skip patting dry: Removing surface moisture helps the chicken absorb the sauce better.
- Whisk vigorously: Be sure the brown sugar dissolves fully in the sauce mix and the cornstarch is well incorporated for the smoothest glaze.
- Let the sauce reduce: For that thick, sticky consistency you love from takeout, allow the sauce to simmer after adding the slurry.
Variations & Substitutions
- No bourbon? Try using apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Add veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots during the last hour of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your bourbon is gluten-free.
- Swap brown sugar: Use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers are just as tasty, if not more so, the next day.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water to loosen.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve over: Steamed jasmine or basmati rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice
- Pair with: Stir-fried vegetables, roasted broccoli, or a crisp cucumber salad
- Drinks: A chilled glass of white wine, a light bourbon cocktail, or iced green tea complements the dish beautifully
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 10 minutes, then use the sauté function to reduce the sauce with the cornstarch slurry.
Is this recipe safe for kids?
Absolutely. The alcohol cooks off during the process, leaving only the flavor behind. However, you can substitute bourbon with apple juice for extra peace of mind.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but note that thighs are more forgiving in the slow cooker and won’t dry out as easily as breasts can.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be fork-tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I double this recipe?
Certainly! Just make sure your crock pot is large enough, and you may need to add 30–60 minutes to the cook time if it’s crowded.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is everything you want in a cozy, crave-worthy meal: deep flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and an easy cleanup. It brings all the richness of takeout-style chicken without the mystery ingredients or the bill.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious slow-cooker and comfort food recipes straight to your inbox! 🧡🍽️
