There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken.
This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, slightly sweet sauce that’s got just the right kick.
Originating from the vibrant flavors of New Orleans, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of Southern cuisine right into your home.
Ingredient List
For my Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, I ensure that every ingredient contributes to the dish’s flavorful profile. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
I prefer thighs for their richness but breasts work in a pinch.
- 1 cup chicken broth
This helps to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- 1/2 cup bourbon
I use a good quality bourbon for the best flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
This adds a lovely sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
I go for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
Just a touch enhances the depth of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
This adds a tanginess that complements the sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
A hint of ginger adds warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
I like a little kick in my sauce.
- 2 green onions chopped
These are for garnish, adding a fresh crunch when serving.
Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process. Each component works together to create a luscious sauce that envelops the tender chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the sauce’s flavors.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of chicken broth, ¾ cup of bourbon, ½ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of soy sauce, ⅓ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Add Chicken to the Crock Pot: Place the chicken pieces directly into the Crock Pot. Ensure they are spread evenly across the bottom for even cooking.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken: Once the sauce is mixed, pour it over the chicken in the Crock Pot. Use a spatula to gently stir the chicken and sauce together, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Set the Cooking Time: Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Final Touches: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, chop a few green onions and add them to the pot. This gives a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
- Serve: Once cooked, the chicken should be tender, and the sauce should have thickened slightly. Serve the Bourbon Chicken over rice or noodles, allowing the delicious sauce to soak in.
Recipe Notes & Variations
When making my Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, I find these notes and variations enhance the dish beautifully.
Cooking Time
- Low Heat: 6-8 hours for tender chicken that soaks up all the flavors.
- High Heat: 3-4 hours for quicker cooking while still retaining moisture.
Chicken Variations
- Cuts of Chicken: I love using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. You can substitute with breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but you might need to watch for dryness.
- Additions: Toss in some diced bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for added color and nutrition.
Sauce Variations
- Sweetness Adjustment: If I want a sweeter sauce, I add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or some honey. For a bolder flavor, increasing bourbon slightly is a great choice.
- Heat Factor: To spice things up, I add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This adds a delightful kick without overwhelming the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serving Over: I typically serve it over fluffy white rice or cooked egg noodles. For a healthier twist, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles are fantastic options.
- Garnishes: Fresh chopped cilantro or sesame seeds make a nice finishing touch. Adding these right before serving elevates the presentation and taste.
- Leftovers: I find that this dish lasts in the fridge for about 3-4 days and the flavors continue to deepen. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just ensure to store in airtight containers—perfect for a quick meal later!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate my Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken experience, I love to serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice.
The rice absorbs that rich sauce, creating a comforting bowl that warms the soul. If I’m in the mood for something a bit different, I’ll toss the chicken over egg noodles.
The noodles offer a delightful chewiness that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
For a healthier twist, I often use cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully and adds a nutritious element to the meal.
Sometimes, I like to set up a little garnish station with freshly chopped cilantro or sesame seeds.
These add a pop of freshness and texture that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
I also enjoy pairing this dish with steamed vegetables. Fresh snap peas or sautéed bell peppers not only add color to my plate but also a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken.
A side of crispy garlic bread is a great option too if I want to really indulge.
When entertaining, I often serve Bourbon Chicken as part of a larger feast.
It pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, fried plantains, or even a simple garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Each element creates a balanced meal that’s sure to impress my guests.
Nutrition Information
When preparing my Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken, I always consider the nutritional aspects to keep things balanced while enjoying this delicious meal.
Below is a breakdown of the nutrition information for one serving of the dish, assuming the recipe serves six.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 3g |
Cholesterol | 95mg |
Sodium | 700mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 32g |
Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Sugars | 10g |
Protein | 30g |
- Calories: Each serving contains about 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet manageable meal option for any day of the week.
- Fats: The recipe includes 12 grams of total fat, with 3 grams being saturated fat. Using chicken thighs adds a juicy flavor while balancing the fat content.
- Cholesterol: At 95 milligrams of cholesterol, this dish remains within a reasonable range for those monitoring their intake.
- Sodium: With about 700 milligrams of sodium per serving, I recommend watching sodium levels if you are on a low-sodium diet. Using low-sodium soy sauce can help reduce this number.
- Carbohydrates: Each serving has 32 grams of carbohydrates, giving you a hearty base when served with rice or noodles.
- Fiber: The dish has 1 gram of dietary fiber, so adding steamed vegetables on the side can further enhance the fiber content.
- Sugars: The sugar content is about 10 grams, mainly from the brown sugar and sauce ingredients, providing that sweet flavor characteristic of Bourbon Chicken.
- Protein: With 30 grams of protein, this dish is excellent for a filling meal that promotes muscle repair and growth.
This nutritional information helps me make informed choices and allows me to enjoy my Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken while staying mindful of my diet.
Adjusting sides, like opting for cauliflower rice or adding extra veggies, can enhance the nutritional profile even further.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is truly a delightful dish that brings a taste of New Orleans right into my kitchen.
The combination of tender chicken and that rich sauce makes it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
I love how versatile this recipe is. Whether I’m serving it over rice or noodles or adding some fresh veggies on the side, it never disappoints.
Plus, the ease of preparing it in the Crock Pot means I can enjoy my time with loved ones while the flavors meld beautifully.
Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a go-to recipe in your home too!