Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

Tender and juicy chicken thighs simmered in a brown sugar bourbon sauce all day long make for a delightful meal. This Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine while being easy to prepare in your slow cooker. Your family will love the rich, sweet, and savory notes that create a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply season the chicken, mix the sauce, and let your crockpot do the work.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of brown sugar and soy sauce creates a deliciously rich glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, noodles, or even in wraps for different meals all week long.
• Family-Friendly Dish: The sweet and savory taste is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows you to cook your chicken low and slow, ensuring tenderness.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients effortlessly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces to ensure everything is blended well before pouring it over your chicken.

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Ingredients

To whip up this tasty Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and pepper, (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup bourbon substitute (barley tea, apple juice, or chicken broth)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

How to Make Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs with Kosher salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup bourbon substitute, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves minced garlic.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are combined into a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

1. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
2. Cover with lid and set your slow cooker to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. About 30 minutes before cooking is complete, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Whisk this cornstarch slurry into the sauce in your slow cooker to thicken it up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Once cooked, serve your tender crockpot bourbon (alcohol-free) chicken over rice.
2. Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness.

Now you have an easy-to-follow recipe for Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken that’s sure to impress! Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken is versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the flavorful sauce, making each bite delightful.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair your bourbon (alcohol-free) chicken with creamy mashed potatoes. The richness of the potatoes complements the sweet and savory sauce beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Create a light meal by serving the chicken over mixed greens. Drizzle with a bit of dressing for added flavor and freshness.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Include a side of steamed broccoli or green beans. The crunchiness balances the tenderness of the chicken while adding color to your plate.

In Tacos

• Shred the bourbon (alcohol-free) chicken and serve it in corn or flour tortillas. Top with avocado, cilantro, and lime for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

To make sure your Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken: Choose fresh boneless skinless chicken thighs for better flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar slightly. For less sweetness, reduce it.
• Incorporate fresh herbs: Adding fresh thyme or parsley at the end can enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking times may vary based on your crockpot model; check for doneness if unsure.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to sit for 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps retain juices.
• Serve with garnishes: Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

Pairing sides with your Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
2. Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the chicken while adding a lovely buttery flavor.
3. Coleslaw
4. A crunchy and refreshing side that provides contrast to the rich flavors of bourbon (alcohol-free) chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad
6. A nutritious option that adds texture and complements the dish’s savory notes well.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
8. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the brown sugar in the sauce, creating a harmonious dish.
9. Corn on the Cob
10. Grilled or boiled corn adds a fun touch and is easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
11. Cucumber Salad
12. A light cucumber salad can bring balance to this hearty meal, providing freshness and crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that could affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

• Skipping the seasoning – Don’t forget to season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Overcooking – Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times: low for 4 hours or high for 3 hours.
• Using incorrect substitutes – If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, choose apple juice or chicken broth instead of bourbon. Avoid using any alcoholic ingredients.
• Neglecting sauce thickening – Failing to add the cornstarch slurry can result in a watery sauce. Remember to whisk it in 30 minutes before completing the cooking time.
• Not allowing resting time – Letting the chicken rest before serving allows flavors to meld. Skipping this step may leave you with less juicy meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer a portion of chicken to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add chicken and a splash of broth or water. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions often asked about Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken:

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat used.

What can I serve with Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

While this recipe is centered around chicken, you can try using tofu as a substitute. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I prepare Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just assemble everything in your crockpot in the morning.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bourbon (alcohol-free) Chicken is not just easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors that your family will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences!