Deliciously Easy Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share one of my family’s favorite dishes: Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken. This recipe not only delivers rich flavors but also brings back memories of cozy dinners with loved ones. With my 6-year-old son often helping out, it’s become a delightful bonding experience in our New Jersey kitchen.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. All you need to do is toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let the magic happen. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup of soy sauce
• 1 cup of brown sugar
• 1/2 cup of bourbon
• 1/4 cup of ketchup
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
• Green onions, for garnish
• Cooked rice, for serving

Timing

Timing is key when it comes to cooking. This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a set-it-and-forget-it dish, making it easy to manage your day. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
• Total Time: About 6 hours

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken thighs into your Crock Pot. You can cut them into chunks if you prefer smaller pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, minced garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the Crock Pot. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is tender, shred it with two forks. Serve the deliciously tender bourbon chicken over a bed of cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish with green onions for an extra pop of flavor!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is important. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 20g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Substitute honey for brown sugar to reduce refined sugar intake.
• Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

This Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides:

• Steamed broccoli or green beans add a nice crunch.
• Serve with fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa.
• A side salad can lighten the meal and add freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking is a journey, and we all make mistakes! Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Don’t skip the browning step for the chicken. It adds depth of flavor.
• Avoid overcooking. Chicken can dry out if cooked too long.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!

Storage Tips

Leftovers are a blessing! Here’s how to store your Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken:

• Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Cooking this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken has been such a joy for my family. The ease of preparation and the explosion of flavors make it a winner in our household. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to get my son involved in the kitchen, creating memories together!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great alternative for a leaner dish.

Is bourbon necessary for this recipe?

While bourbon adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with apple juice or chicken broth if you prefer to skip the alcohol.

Can I add vegetables to the Crock Pot?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure! I hope you try this Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken recipe and make it your own. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing love through food. Happy cooking!

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