Smoky Slow-Cooked Bourbon Chicken Recipe That Melts Hearts

Nestled in a world of comfort and flavor, this slow-cooked bourbon chicken brings Southern charm right to your kitchen table.

Tender meat falls apart with minimal effort, promising a meal that speaks directly to your soul.

Whiskey-infused marinades work magic on each succulent piece of protein.

Aromatic spices dance through the kitchen, creating an anticipation that builds with every passing minute.

Rich, caramelized notes emerge as the chicken simmers gently in its bourbon bath.

Complex layers of sweetness and depth transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience.

You’ll find this recipe becomes an instant favorite that connects memories and creates new traditions.

Grab your apron and let the delicious journey begin!

Why Slow-Cooked Bourbon Chicken Is Loved

• Savor Flavor Explosion: Bourbon-infused marinade creates a mouthwatering blend of sweet, tangy, and rich tastes that transform ordinary chicken into a gourmet experience.
• Simplify Meal Prep: Crockpot cooking method allows hands-off preparation, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Master Versatile Comfort Food: This recipe works brilliantly for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you crave a satisfying meal that impresses without complicated techniques.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible cooking options like LOW or HIGH settings accommodate different schedules, while simple ingredient swaps let you adapt to dietary preferences or pantry availability.

Ingredients For Slow-Cooked Bourbon Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful cut of meat that becomes tender when slow-cooked with the marinade.

• Soy Sauce, Tamari: Provides a rich, salty base that helps tenderize the chicken.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy depth and helps break down the meat fibers.
• Bourbon: Contributes a complex, smoky flavor to the dish.
• Brown Sugar, Maple Syrup: Create a sweet balance to the savory elements of the recipe.

• Garlic, Ginger: Bring bold, aromatic flavors that enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and warmth to the marinade.

• Cornstarch, Water: Creates a smooth slurry that helps thicken the cooking liquid into a glossy sauce.

• Green Onions: Provides a fresh, sharp flavor and bright color to the finished dish.

Cooking Spray: Helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the crockpot.

How To Cook Slow-Cooked Bourbon Chicken

Step 1: Create Flavor-Packed Marinade

• Soy sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Bourbon
• Brown sugar
• Maple syrup
• Crushed garlic
• Minced ginger
• Black pepper

Stir all ingredients together in a small bowl until perfectly blended.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and generously coat with the prepared marinade.

Seal the dish tightly and let it chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to dance and mingle.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Lightly spray your crockpot with cooking spray.

Gently lay the marinated chicken thighs in the bottom of the pot and pour any remaining marinade over them.

Cover and set your crockpot to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 2½-3 hours until the chicken becomes mouthwateringly tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Create Luscious Sauce

Remove the chicken and transfer to a serving plate, keeping it warm.

Strain the cooking liquid into a small saucepan.

In a separate bowl, whisk cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry.

Heat the cooking liquid over medium-high heat, whisking in the slurry.

Stir constantly until the sauce bubbles and transforms into a glossy, thick coating, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Drizzle the luxurious sauce over the chicken.

Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Serve alongside fluffy brown rice for a complete meal that’ll make taste buds dance with joy.

Tips For Slow-Cooked Bourbon Chicken

• Let the chicken soak in the marinade overnight to allow the bourbon, soy sauce, and spices to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat.
• Use low and slow cooking to ensure the chicken becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the rich, complex flavors of the marinade.
• Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with water before adding to the cooking liquid for a smooth, glossy sauce without lumps.
• Swap chicken thighs with chicken breasts or tofu for different protein options, adjusting cooking time accordingly to prevent dryness.
• Sprinkle chopped green onions just before serving to add a bright, crisp element that cuts through the rich, sweet bourbon sauce.

Flavor Enhancements For Bourbon Chicken

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth for a family-friendly recipe that maintains similar flavor complexity.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free tamari instead of traditional soy sauce and confirm cornstarch is certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Bourbon Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the marinade for those wanting extra heat and a bolder flavor profile.
• Lean Protein Option: Substitute chicken thighs with skinless chicken breasts for a lower-fat version while maintaining the recipe's signature bourbon-infused marinade.

Suggested Pairings For Bourbon Chicken

• Flavor-Packed Plate Pairings: Serve this succulent bourbon chicken over steamed brown rice to soak up the rich, caramelized sauce.
• Asian-Inspired Side Dish: Complement the meal with quick-pickled cucumber salad or roasted sesame broccoli for a tangy, crunchy contrast.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Sprinkle generous amounts of chopped green onions and fresh cilantro on top to add bright, zesty notes that cut through the chicken's deep, sweet flavors.
• Weekend Feast Companion: Create a complete dinner experience by adding roasted sweet potatoes or a light coleslaw that balances the dish's intense bourbon-infused profile.

Storage Advice For Bourbon Chicken

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Add 2 tablespoons of water or extra sauce. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or sauce. Cover with foil to retain moisture. Warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

FAQs

• What gives this bourbon chicken its unique flavor?

The combination of bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and maple syrup creates a rich, sweet-savory marinade that deeply infuses the chicken with complex, caramelized flavors during the slow cooking process.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and ability to stay moist during slow cooking, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can become dry more quickly.

• Is the bourbon necessary for the recipe?

If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth, though this will slightly alter the depth of flavor in the final dish.

Slow-Cooked Bourbon Chicken Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savor Kentucky’s legendary Bourbon Chicken with a mouthwatering blend of rich bourbon, tangy sauce, and tender meat that melts in your mouth. Each succulent bite promises a delightful culinary journey you’ll want to experience again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

Liquid Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 0.25 cup bourbon
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Flavor Enhancers:

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Garnish and Serving:

• 0.25 cup chopped green onions
• 2 cups prepared brown rice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft a flavorful marinade by blending soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, bourbon, brown sugar, maple syrup, crushed garlic, minced ginger, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
2. Submerge chicken thighs in the prepared marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Seal and refrigerate for 3-8 hours to allow flavor infusion.
3. Prepare the slow cooker by lightly spraying with cooking spray. Carefully arrange marinated chicken thighs in a single layer, then pour remaining marinade over the meat.
4. Cook on LOW setting for 6-7 hours or HIGH setting for 2½-3 hours until chicken reaches optimal tenderness and internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Transfer cooked chicken to a serving platter, keeping warm and covered.
6. Strain cooking liquid into a saucepan, creating a smooth base for sauce thickening.
7. Create a cornstarch slurry by whisking cornstarch with water until smooth and lump-free.
8. Heat cooking liquid over medium-high heat, gradually incorporating the slurry while continuously stirring until sauce reaches desired consistency and bubbles, approximately 1-2 minutes.
9. Drizzle thickened sauce over chicken, garnishing with freshly chopped green onions.
10. Serve immediately alongside prepared brown rice for a complete meal.

Notes

• Marinate chicken for deeper flavor intensity by allowing it to sit overnight, helping ingredients fully penetrate the meat.
• Swap bourbon for apple juice or chicken broth to create a non-alcoholic version that maintains rich taste profile.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt content, making the dish more heart-healthy and diet-friendly.
• Consider removing chicken skin before cooking to reduce overall fat content without compromising tenderness and juiciness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours (on Low) or 3 hours (on High)
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 461 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg