Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: 5-Star Comfort Magic

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If you’ve been craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is about to become your new best friend. Sweet, savory, and just a little sassy with that splash of bourbon, this dish is a true weeknight lifesaver. It’s one of those meals you can throw together in minutes, walk away, and return to a kitchen that smells like pure comfort.

I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has saved my sanity on hectic weeks. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while I tackle my never-ending to-do list (or, let’s be honest, sneak in a little “me” time). And the result? Tender, flavor-packed chicken coated in a sticky, irresistible sauce that pairs perfectly with rice.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Effortless Comfort Food: A few minutes of prep, and your slow cooker takes it from there.
Sweet & Savory Bliss: The combo of soy sauce, brown sugar, and bourbon makes magic happen.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters go back for seconds!
Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers (if you have any) reheat beautifully for an easy lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup bourbon
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
2 green onions (sliced for garnish)
Cooked rice (for serving)

How To Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Having everything ready to go makes this dish a breeze. Lay out your chicken, sauces, and spices—you’ll feel like your own little cooking show star.

2. Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This way, they cook evenly and soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re more of a chicken breast fan, swap them in!

3. Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick).

4. Load the Crock Pot

Place the chicken in your slow cooker, pour the sauce over it, and give everything a gentle stir so each piece gets some love.

5. Cook Low & Slow (or Fast & Hot!)

Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Either way, you’ll get tender, juicy chicken that tastes like it simmered all day.

6. Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir it into the crock pot to thicken the sauce into that perfect sticky glaze.

7. Serve & Enjoy

Spoon the bourbon chicken over rice, sprinkle on some fresh green onions, and bask in the glory of a dinner well done.

Mounia’s Tips for the Best Bourbon Chicken

No Bourbon? You can use apple juice or chicken broth instead—it won’t have quite the same depth, but it’ll still be delicious.
Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce if your crew loves heat.
Meal Prep Hack: Double the recipe and freeze half for a ready-made dinner on your busiest nights.

My little Backstory

The first time I made Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, it was after one of those endless days where my to-do list felt like a mile long. I tossed everything into the slow cooker in a hurry, hoping for the best. Hours later, I walked back into a kitchen that smelled like heaven—sweet, savory, and just a little indulgent. My family devoured it, and I knew instantly it would be a permanent part of our dinner rotation. Now, it’s my secret weapon for busy weeks when I still want a meal that feels special without the stress.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken in a rich, savory bourbon glaze topped with herbs. — Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken simmered to perfection in a flavorful, sticky bourbon sauce.

FAQs About Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

How should I store leftovers?

Place cooled chicken in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Does the bourbon cook off?

Most of it will during the slow cooking process, leaving behind just the rich flavor.

A Dinner You’ll Make Again and Again

There’s just something magical about Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken. It’s one of those set-it-and-forget-it meals that feels special without being fussy. The sweet and savory sauce, the tender chicken, and the fact that dinner practically cooks itself—what’s not to love?

It’s also a great dish to make for company because it tastes like you put in a ton of effort, but in reality, you barely lifted a finger. Pair it with some steamed veggies or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will rave about. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your regular dinner rotation. After all, when a recipe is this easy and this delicious, why wouldn’t it?

More Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll love trying more easy and flavorful dinners that are just as fuss-free:

Try the rich and savory Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks for a comforting weeknight meal.
For a hearty, family-friendly option, check out this cheesy and filling Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole.
If you love tender bites of meat with bold flavor, you can’t go wrong with Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites.
Craving more sweet and savory chicken? The Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is another must-try for your recipe rotation.