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Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken simmers deliciously in a slow cooker, promising an easy and flavorful meal.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe delivers a delicious and flavorful dish with tender chicken simmered in a sweet and savory bourbon sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a mouthwatering meal that's perfect served over rice.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs about 6-8 thighs
  • 1/2 cup bourbon mid-range
  • 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Cooked rice, for serving
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
  • Medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • fork
  • serving spoon

Method
 

  1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Place the chicken in the crock pot.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Pour the bourbon sauce evenly over the chicken thighs in the crock pot.
  4. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it with two forks.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth to create the cornstarch slurry.
  7. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the crock pot with the remaining sauce. Stir well to combine.
  8. Turn the crock pot to high and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally.
  9. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to coat it evenly with the thickened sauce.
  10. Serve the Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

For a tangier flavor, add a touch more apple cider vinegar to the sauce before serving. To adjust the sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or a little more brown sugar. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To prevent a watery sauce, avoid adding water to the recipe. The chicken thighs will release enough moisture as they cook. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. You may need to add a pinch of salt if the low sodium soy sauce isn't salty enough for your taste.