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Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Sweet, savory, and packed with bold flavor — this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is the ultimate comfort meal made effortless in your slow cooker. With tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich bourbon glaze, every bite is a blend of sweet caramelized sauce and tangy spice that’s simply irresistible.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ½ cup apple juice or pineapple juice for extra sweetness
  • ¼ cup bourbon or substitute with apple cider vinegar for non-alcoholic
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water optional, for thickening
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For Garnish:
  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Step 1 – Prepare Chicken:
  2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Step 2 – Mix the Sauce:
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple juice, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
  5. Step 3 – Combine in Crock Pot:
  6. Place the chicken into your slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over the top. Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly.
  7. Step 4 – Slow Cook:
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  9. Step 5 – Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
  10. If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on HIGH.
  11. Step 6 – Serve:
  12. Serve hot over white rice, brown rice, noodles, or quinoa. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Make It Alcohol-Free: Replace bourbon with apple cider vinegar or extra apple juice.
  • Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
  • Thicken the Sauce: Cornstarch slurry gives a rich, glossy texture to the sauce.
  • For Extra Flavor: Sear the chicken lightly before slow cooking for a caramelized crust.