Sticky Sweet Slow Cooker Honey Bourbon Chicken

Easy Sticky Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

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Preparation time:15 Mins

Cooking time:06 Hrs

Servings:4 to 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
• Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
• 1 Tbsp Vegetable or Canola Oil
• 1/2 cup Bourbon Whiskey
• 1/2 cup low sodium Soy Sauce
• 1/2 cup Honey
• 1/4 cup packed Light Brown Sugar
• 1/4 cup Ketchup
• 1 Tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated
• 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
• 1/4 cup Cold Water
• 2 Tbsp Cornstarch (Corn Flour)
• 1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds, for garnish
• 2 stalks Spring Onions (Scallions), sliced, for garnish

Instructions:

• Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Optionally, heat the oil in a large skillet and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer the chicken thighs directly to the bottom of the slow cooker insert.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the Bourbon, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
• Pour the prepared Bourbon sauce evenly over the chicken thighs. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fall-apart tender.
• Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker, reserving the liquid. Switch the slow cooker setting to HIGH. In a small bowl, whisk together the cold water and cornstarch until a smooth slurry forms. Slowly pour the slurry into the hot sauce, whisking continuously for 30 seconds. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5–10 minutes until visibly thickened.
• Shred or slice the cooked chicken. Return the meat to the thickened sauce in the slow cooker and stir gently to coat completely. Serve hot, garnished generously with sliced spring onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:1941 kcal

Protein:18.0 g

Fat:44.3 g

Carbs:125.5 g

Fiber:19.5 g

Sugar:0.0 g

Sodium:1468 mg

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:American

Why This Recipe Wins Your Weeknight Dinner Rotation

If there is one category of meals that delivers maximum flavour with minimum fuss, it’s the Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken category. This particular preparation is a guaranteed weekly winner because it embraces the "dump-and-go" philosophy inherent in Chicken Crockpot Recipes Easy . You invest a mere fifteen minutes of active prep time in the morning, and you are rewarded six to eight hours later with tender, deeply caramelized chicken bathed in a sticky, addictive glaze. It completely eliminates the stress of post-work cooking, making it the ideal solution for busy professionals, families, and anyone looking for robust, comforting food without standing over a hot stove. It’s truly the definition of a quick chicken recipe solution, even if the cooking itself is deliberately slow.

Unpacking the Flavor: What Makes Honey Bourbon Chicken Irresistible?

The allure of this dish lies in its perfect interplay of opposing flavour forces: salty, sweet, smoky, and acidic. This slow cooker honey bourbon chicken recipe creates a complex profile where the sweet stickiness of the honey (1/2 cup/170g) and brown sugar (1/4 cup/50g) is expertly cut by the salty umami depth of soy sauce (1/2 cup/120ml) and a touch of rice wine vinegar. The Bourbon itself (1/2 cup/120ml) doesn't just add alcohol; it introduces rich, oaky, vanilla notes that develop into a profound smoky background flavour as it simmers, resulting in the characteristic taste that defines the best version of this bourbon chicken recipe crock pot . The subtle heat from red pepper flakes and the pungent base notes of four cloves of garlic and a tablespoon of fresh ginger round out a sauce that is truly multi-layered.

The Magic of Low and Slow: Setting Up Your Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken

The slow cooker is the powerhouse behind achieving the incredible succulence required for this dish. By cooking over extended periods, the high moisture content prevents the chicken from drying out, while the steady, low heat allows the robust flavour compounds in the sauce to fuse completely.

Tender vs. Tough: Why Slow Cooking Chicken is Superior

We specifically opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs (2.5 lbs/1.15 kg) for this Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken recipe because they possess more connective tissue and fat than white meat. Over a long cooking duration—typically 6 to 8 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH—this collagen breaks down into gelatin. This process is essential, leaving you with meat that is not only fully cooked but moist, fork-tender, and practically falling apart, which is key for soaking up every ounce of that dense sauce.

Deconstructing the Sticky, Sweet, and Smoky Sauce Profile

The secret to a great honey bourbon sauce is building a strong base using high-impact ingredients. Beyond the primary liquids (soy and Bourbon), we rely on 1/4 cup of ketchup (or tomato paste) to provide necessary acidity and richness, which aids in balancing the heavy sweetness of the honey. When these elements simmer in a covered Crockpot Recipes Slow Cooker , the result is a reduction that becomes naturally concentrated and ready to accept the final glossy glaze.

Is This Dish Actually Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely. While the name features "Bourbon Whiskey," it's important to note that the small quantity of alcohol added to the sauce cooks off entirely during the extended cooking process. What remains are the deep, smoky caramel notes derived from the distillation process, not the intoxicating properties. Coupled with the inherent sweetness from the honey and brown sugar, this flavour profile is incredibly palatable to younger eaters, making it one of the most reliable Chicken Crockpot Recipes for family dinner night.

Gathering Your Supplies: The Essential Shopping List

To make this beautiful dish, you will require two main categories of ingredients. For the protein, ensure you have 2.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, along with salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of oil for searing, if you choose that route. For the sauce, the pantry staples include low-sodium soy sauce and honey, each measuring 1/2 cup. You'll need 1/4 cup of packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, and a single tablespoon of rice wine vinegar. The aromatic foundation relies on 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, brightened with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Finally, don’t forget the signature ingredient: 1/2 cup of quality Bourbon. For the finishing touch, grab some cold water and cornstarch for thickening, plus spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish. All this fits neatly into a standard 5 to 7-quart slow cooker.

Beyond the Basics: Ingredients That Elevate the Sauce

Success in any slow cooker honey bourbon chicken recipe rests on the quality of ingredients, even the ones that might seem minor. Precision matters, especially with the components that dictate texture and depth.

Selecting the Right Cut of Chicken (Thighs vs. Breasts)

While you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, the superior choice is undoubtedly crockpot honey bourbon chicken thighs . Their slightly higher fat content is a shield against drying out during the long cook time, ensuring the meat remains incredibly moist and flavourful. If breasts are used, it’s advisable to check them an hour earlier on the LOW setting to avoid the dry, fibrous texture of overcooked white meat.

Bourbon Breakdown: Which Bottle Works Best for Cooking?

Since the Bourbon is a defining feature of the dish, selecting the right spirit is crucial. The rule of thumb here is simple: use a quality, palatable Bourbon that you wouldn't mind sipping neat. Avoid cheap "cooking wines" or spirits, as these often impart harsh notes. The sweet, complex character of a mid-range Bourbon will leave behind lovely caramel and oak essences once the alcohol has evaporated during the slow cooking process.

The Secret Ingredient for a Perfectly Glossy Glaze

The difference between a watery sauce and a restaurant-quality, glossy glaze is the cornstarch slurry. We use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup of cold water. When introduced to the hot, simmering sauce at the very end of the cooking cycle, this mixture instantly thickens and transforms the remaining liquid into the sticky, rich coating that defines a successful bourbon chicken recipe crock pot .

Quick Substitutions for Common Allergens

For guests requiring a gluten-free option, easily swap out the standard low-sodium soy sauce for Tamari or Coconut Aminos without significantly altering the inherent flavour complexity. If Bourbon is absolutely out of the question, dark rum or brandy can be used as a serviceable replacement, though the final flavour will lean slightly more toward molasses than oak.

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Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Perfect Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken

Preparing this easy crock pot honey bourbon chicken is deceptively simple. Begin by patting your 2.5 lbs of chicken thighs thoroughly dry, then season them lightly with salt and pepper. Next, move on to the optional but highly recommended step of searing. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet and quickly brown the thighs for 2- 3 minutes per side, developing a lovely crust. Once browned (or simply if you skip the sear and use raw chicken), place the thighs directly into your slow cooker. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients—Bourbon, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes—until the sugar is fully dissolved. Pour this mixture over the chicken, cover the appliance, and cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours.

The Final Countdown: Reducing the Sauce for Maximum Stickiness

The transition from cooked chicken to a finished, glossy entrée requires one crucial step: reducing and thickening the sauce. This final stage is what elevates the dish from basic stewed chicken to glorious, sticky Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken .

Prepping the Chicken: To Sear or Not to Sear?

While the initial searing step is technically optional, taking the 5 extra minutes to sear the chicken thighs before they go into the slow cooker adds a remarkable depth through the Maillard reaction. This light browning creates caramelized flavour compounds that simply cannot be developed in the moist environment of the slow cooker alone.

Combining the Sauce Base in the Slow Cooker

After whisking your 1/2 cup of Bourbon and other sauce components together in a separate bowl, ensure you pour the liquid over the chicken evenly. The raw chicken should be mostly submerged. This preliminary mix allows the flavours to be uniformly distributed and avoids having pockets of un-dissolved sugar or spice settling at the bottom of the cooker.

The Crucial Difference Between LOW and HIGH Settings

Whether you select LOW (6– 8 hours) or HIGH (3– 4 hours) depends solely on your timing needs. Both settings will result in fully cooked, tender chicken (internal temperature of 165° F / 74° C). The main difference lies in the sauce. The LOW setting offers a slightly deeper integration of flavour, as the ingredients have more time to mingle before the final thickening process begins.

Thickening the Glaze: A Simple Cornstarch Slurry Method

Once the chicken is ready, carefully remove the cooked meat from the pot and place it aside for shredding or slicing. Switch your slow cooker setting to HIGH. In a small, separate vessel, vigorously whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of cold water until a smooth, lump-free slurry is formed. Slowly pour this into the hot liquid in the slow cooker, whisking continuously for about 30 seconds. Let the sauce simmer on the HIGH setting for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it achieves a visibly thick, syrupy consistency that effortlessly coats the back of a spoon. Finally, return the chicken to the pot, stir to coat, and you have achieved maximum stickiness.

Making the Most of Leftovers and Safe Storage Tips

This bourbon chicken recipe crock pot yields 4 to 6 generous servings, making it ideal for immediate dinner and efficient meal prep. Leftovers store beautifully due to the chicken’s inherent moisture and the preservative qualities of the salty/sweet sauce. Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer the chicken and the sticky glaze to an airtight container. It will keep safely in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, a microwave works fine, but gently warming the chicken in a saucepan on the stove allows the glaze to re-adhere to the meat, restoring its beautiful, glossy texture.

Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Best with This Sticky Chicken?

The intense, complex flavour of the slow cooker honey bourbon chicken recipe demands a simple, textural canvas to shine. Steamed Jasmine or Basmati rice is the classic companion, perfect for soaking up every drop of that irresistible sticky sauce. For those seeking a richer alternative, consider serving the chicken over creamy polenta or even a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. To provide a necessary fresh and green contrast to the richness of the meat, lightly steamed or blanched vegetables, such as broccoli florets or haricot beans, tossed with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon zest, make an excellent side. Pair this meal with a crisp, chilled lager or, for a non-alcoholic option, a classic ginger beer to cut through the sauce's sweetness.

Troubleshooting Your Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken

While this recipe is categorized as easy crock pot honey bourbon chicken , a few key checks will ensure consistently perfect results every time.

Testing for Doneness: Avoiding Dry Chicken

The biggest enemy of any slow cooker meat is overcooking. While chicken thighs are forgiving, aim for a final internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C). Once they hit this point and are fall-apart tender, remove them promptly before thickening the sauce. Excessive time in the hot liquid after they’re done will start to leach flavour and moisture.

Freezing Guidelines for Meal Prep Success

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Once fully cooled, transfer the sauced chicken to freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you press out as much air as possible. Label and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, move the container to the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop. This makes it an excellent choice for batch cooking under the umbrella of Chicken Crockpot Recipes Easy .

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down (Batch Cooking)

This Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken recipe scales up beautifully. Provided your slow cooker is large enough (a 7-quart capacity can usually handle 4-5 lbs of chicken), you can simply double all the ingredients. Crucially, the cook time remains largely the same, especially on the LOW setting, though you may need an extra 5 minutes during the final sauce thickening step.

Transforming the Dish: Instant Pot and Oven Variations

If time is limited, this recipe is adaptable. For an Instant Pot variation, brown the chicken using the sauté function, then pressure cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, followed by a natural or quick release. You will still need to use the sauté function at the end to thicken the glaze. For an oven adaptation, cook the chicken and sauce in a covered Dutch oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 1. 5 hours, then remove the chicken and thicken the sauce on the stovetop.

Nutritional Snapshot and Calorie Considerations

This rich, protein-forward meal (yielding 35–40g of protein per serving) is a satisfying dinner choice. Based on 6 servings, an estimated 6oz serving of the chicken and sauce alone clocks in around 400–450 kcal. Note that the primary calorie contributors are the chicken’s natural fat content (15–20g) and the high sugar components (20–25g) derived from the honey and brown sugar. As with all Crockpot Recipes Slow Cooker dishes, nutritional value is maximized by serving with lean, complementary side dishes.