Easy Crockpot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Craving that tender, sweet, and mildly spicy chicken found at your favorite takeout spot? This Easy Crockpot Bourbon Chicken Recipe delivers the beloved flavors—juicy chicken, a silky-smooth sauce, and subtle bourbon notes—all without the fuss of constant kitchen attention. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let the magic happen, making it a lifesaver for busy families or anyone who wants a comforting homemade meal without the hassle.

Why This Bourbon Chicken Is a Must-Make

What sets this crockpot version apart is its simple, hands-off approach that produces restaurant-worthy results. The chicken bathes in a luscious sauce that beautifully balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors—think soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and a splash of bourbon for depth. The meat comes out fork-tender and perfectly infused with that irresistible glaze, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Crockpot Bourbon Chicken Ingredients and Prep Tips

The secret to perfect bourbon chicken lies in prepping your ingredients for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Start by cutting your chicken thighs into even, bite-sized pieces. Using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for the veggies saves time and ensures uniformity, so every piece cooks just right.

For added convenience and less mess at cleanup time, line your slow cooker with a piece from a Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. Simply remove and toss when you’re finished!

Assembling the Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

Once your ingredients are prepped, add the chicken pieces and the sauce mixture to your slow cooker. The sauce’s signature flavor comes from bourbon, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of ketchup. Mix everything thoroughly so the chicken is well coated, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

If you want beautifully shredded chicken, use the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen when the cooking time is done; it creates perfect, bite-size chicken with minimal effort.

Serving and Perfect Sides

Bourbon chicken tastes best over steamed rice, making it a hearty, comforting meal. You can whip up a quick slaw or salad with your chopper and store leftovers efficiently in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 for easy meal prep and next-day lunches.

For a quick veggie side, air fry or sauté broccoli or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Serve with a cold drink for an easy feast.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 6 servings. Each portion (based on 1/6 of the batch, not including rice) provides approximately 320–350 calories, with a good source of protein and a satisfying sweet-savory kick.

Summary: Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Bourbon Chicken

This Easy Crockpot Bourbon Chicken Recipe marries convenience with addictive flavor, making it a go-to for busy cooks who want reliable, delicious results. With minimal prep, simple pantry ingredients, and a truly satisfying sauce, it’s a versatile dish everyone will ask for again and again.

Instructions

1. Line your slow cooker insert for easy cleanup using a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the crockpot.
3. In a mixing bowl (for easy blending of sauces, a Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender works great), combine soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken, stirring to coat each piece.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2.5-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
6. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, whisk together the cornstarch and water, then stir into the crockpot. Cook uncovered for the remaining time to thicken the sauce.
7. Once cooked, shred the chicken slightly using the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen for perfect texture (optional).
8. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over steamed rice.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 3–6 hours (depending on low or high setting)

Total Time: Up to 6 hours, but only 10–15 minutes of active prep