If you’ve ever craved that sweet, sticky, and savory bourbon chicken from your favorite takeout spot, you’re in for a treat. Imagine getting those deep, caramelized flavors with almost no effort at all—just set it and forget it!

With this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe, you get tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, slightly smoky bourbon-infused sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. Best of all, it’s made in a slow cooker, so your kitchen does all the heavy lifting while you sit back and relax.

Let’s get started on making your new favorite slow-cooker meal!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

✔ Easy & Effortless – Toss everything in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen.
✔ Packed with Bold Flavors – The mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, and garlic creates an unforgettable sauce.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes a big batch, and leftovers taste even better!
✔ Kid-Friendly – The alcohol mostly cooks out, leaving a rich, deep flavor that the whole family can enjoy.

Now, let’s go over what you need to make this delicious, slow-cooked bourbon chicken.

What You Need to Make Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in a way that will leave you craving seconds.

For the Chicken

Ingredient	Measurement
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs	3 lbs
Salt and pepper	To taste

For the Sauce

Ingredient	Measurement
Light brown sugar	1 cup
Soy sauce	1 cup
Bourbon whiskey	⅓ cup
Apple cider vinegar	2 tbsp
Honey	1 tbsp
Minced garlic	4 cloves
Ground ginger	½ tsp
Red pepper flakes	½ tsp (optional for spice)

For Thickening & Garnish

Ingredient	Measurement
Cornstarch	3 tbsp
Water	2 tbsp
Green onions (chopped)	¼ cup

Now that you have everything ready, let’s start cooking!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cut the Chicken – Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces for better sauce absorption.
2. Measure Everything in Advance – This makes the process smooth and effortless once you start cooking.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Bourbon Chicken

1. Layer the Chicken – Place the chicken pieces in the crock pot and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Pour Over the Chicken – Make sure every piece is coated in the delicious sauce.
4. Set the Slow Cooker –
   • Low: Cook for 6–7 hours
   • High: Cook for 3–4 hours

Step 3: Thickening the Sauce & Final Touches

1. Make the Cornstarch Slurry – Mix 3 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water until smooth.
2. Add to the Crock Pot – Pour the slurry into the sauce 30 minutes before serving and stir well.
3. Let It Thicken – The sauce will develop a glossy, velvety texture.
4. Garnish & Serve – Top with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Best Ways to Serve Bourbon Chicken

This flavor-packed dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides:

🍚 Over White Rice – Classic and perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
🥦 With Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas add color and crunch.
🥖 As a Sandwich Filling – Stuff into a toasted hoagie roll for an irresistible sandwich.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

✔ Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts – They stay juicy and absorb flavor better.
✔ Pick the Right Bourbon – A mid-range bourbon (like Maker’s Mark or Jim Beam) adds richness without overpowering.
✔ Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
✔ Make It Spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Bourbon Chicken

❌ Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry – This step ensures a thick, restaurant-quality sauce.
❌ Using Too Much Bourbon – A little goes a long way; too much can overpower the dish.
❌ Overcooking the Chicken – Stick to the recommended times to keep the chicken tender.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Bourbon Chicken

This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

FAQs About Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

Can I use a different type of whiskey?

Yes! While bourbon adds a slightly sweet, smoky depth, Tennessee whiskey or dark rum can also work.

Does bourbon chicken contain alcohol after cooking?

Most of the alcohol burns off during cooking, leaving just the rich, deep flavor behind.

Can I make this dish without alcohol?

Absolutely! Replace bourbon with apple juice or additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

What vegetables go well with bourbon chicken?

Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas are great options for added texture and freshness.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight, then toss everything in the crock pot when ready.

Final Thoughts: Why Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a Must-Try

With its sweet, savory, and slightly smoky glaze, this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a potluck, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and let your kitchen fill with the mouthwatering aroma of bourbon-infused deliciousness!