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Tender Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken with a savory glaze cooking in a slow cooker.

Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken

A hands-off, flavor-forward dish where tender chicken thighs simmer in a sweet-savory bourbon glaze, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless; skin-on adds flavor and richness) Boneless thighs cook a little faster and are easier to shred.
  • 1 cup bourbon Use a bourbon you enjoy drinking — it shapes the flavor.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Low-sodium if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Light or dark both work.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste Don’t over-salt before cooking because soy already contributes sodium.
  • Cooked rice for serving Pairs perfectly with the chicken.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic until the sugar mostly dissolves.
  3. Pour the bourbon mixture evenly over the chicken.
  4. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, until the chicken is very tender and pulls apart easily.
  2. Optional glaze: transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water to make a slurry, then simmer the sauce and whisk in the slurry until glossy and thickened.
  3. Return the chicken to the pan and coat.
Serving
  1. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice to soak up all the flavors.

Notes

For a twist, try adding honey to the sauce or adjust the flavors with vinegar or lemon juice. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.