A tender and flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish featuring a sweet-savory bourbon sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 7 hourshours
Total Time 7 hourshours15 minutesminutes
Serving Size 4servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2poundsboneless, skinless chicken thighsUse thighs for best moisture; breasts can be used but may dry.
1/2cupbourbonSee tips below for non-alcoholic swaps.
1/4cupsoy sauceUse low-sodium if preferred.
1/4cupbrown sugarLight or dark both work.
3clovesgarlic, minced
1tablespoonfresh ginger, mincedOr 1 tsp ground ginger in a pinch.
1/2teaspoonblack pepper
1/2teaspoonred pepper flakesAdjust for heat.
Instructions
Preparation
Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the crockpot. Trim any excess fat if you prefer.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until the sugar mostly dissolves.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, turning a couple pieces so everything gets coated.
Cooking
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fork-tender and reaches 165°F internally.
Remove the lid, spoon sauce over the chicken, and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
Serve this bourbon chicken over fluffy white rice or garlic noodles. The dish can also be served in tortillas for a quick taco-style dinner. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.