Name: Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-485685H24M16S
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup honey; 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce; ½ cup ketchup; 4 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup diced onion; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in sandwiches.
Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup honey
1 cup low sodium soy sauce
½ cup ketchup
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup diced onion
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the slow cooker.
Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, oil, garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1½ to 2½ hours.
Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and cut it into chunks. Serve the chicken with the sauce over your choice of rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on low or 1½ to 2½ hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir into the sauce. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

It’s recommended to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and food safety.

Is there actual bourbon in this recipe?

No, despite the name, this recipe does not contain bourbon. It’s inspired by the flavors associated with Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to prepare the sauce, then pressure cook the chicken with the sauce for about 15 minutes, followed by a natural release.

What can I serve with honey bourbon chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. A side of steamed vegetables complements it nicely.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir into the sauce. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often result in a juicier texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and ketchup.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately, or cook the entire dish and reheat it when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Its sweet and savory sauce, combined with tender chicken, makes it a family favorite. Whether served over rice, noodles, or with a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to satisfy.