Ingredients

3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed

1 cup light brown sugar

1 cup soy sauce

⅓ cup bourbon whiskey

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon ground ginger

1 tablespoon honey

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

4 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons water

¼ cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Add the trimmed boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bottom of your slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together light brown sugar, soy sauce, bourbon whiskey, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until well combined.

Step 3: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred or chop it to your preferred texture, then set aside.

Step 5: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce left in the slow cooker to thicken it.

Step 6: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the thickened sauce. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken further.

Step 7: Turn off the slow cooker and garnish the bourbon chicken with chopped green onions before serving.

Step 8: Serve hot over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

Try adding a splash of pineapple juice to the sauce for a fruity twist.

Leave out the bourbon for a kid-friendly version, replacing it with additional apple cider vinegar or chicken broth.

Using skin-on chicken thighs can add extra richness, but be sure to skim any excess fat from the sauce before thickening.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts work, but they may be less tender and can dry out in the slow cooker. Reduce cooking time slightly and check for doneness to avoid overcooking.

Is the bourbon flavor very strong?

The bourbon adds a subtle richness and warmth without overpowering the dish. The alcohol cooks off during the slow cooking process, leaving behind a mild, pleasant flavor.