This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken is sweet, savory, and packed with bold flavor. Made with tender chicken thighs simmered in a sticky bourbon-infused sauce, it’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
SEO Keywords: crockpot bourbon chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, easy bourbon chicken recipe, sweet and spicy chicken, best crockpot meals
🛒 Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup bourbon (or apple juice/chicken broth as a substitute)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Crockpot
Place the chicken thighs directly into the base of your slow cooker.
2️⃣ Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
3️⃣ Add & Cook
Pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–8 hours
- High: 4–6 hours
Until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4️⃣ Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred using two forks.
5️⃣ Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into the sauce in the crockpot. Turn the heat to high and let it cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
6️⃣ Combine & Serve
Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir well to coat.
Serve over steamed white rice, and garnish with sliced green onions.
📝 Recipe Notes
- Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha
- Substitutions: Apple juice or chicken broth works great instead of bourbon
- Storage:
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months
- Serving Ideas: Pair with steamed veggies, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
📊 Nutrition Info (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low)
- Servings: 4–6
📌 Save This Recipe!
💾 Pin it to your slow cooker recipes board
📬 Join our newsletter for exclusive healthy & easy meals
💬 Comment below with your favorite way to serve Bourbon Chicken!
