Imagine a dish so tender, so incredibly flavorful, that it transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary experience that'll have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Our Crockpot Pulled Bourbon Chicken is not just another recipe—it's a mouthwatering journey of rich, smoky flavors infused with premium bourbon, creating a perfectly succulent meal that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you're hosting a weekend gathering or craving a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum taste!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together bourbon, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the bourbon sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat, cooking for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easily falls apart.
- After 6 hours, remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken meat, discarding any visible fat or bones.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining cooking liquid to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Serve hot on buns, over rice, or as desired, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if preferred.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness. The dark meat ensures your pulled chicken stays moist and juicy.
- Bourbon Selection Matters: Use a quality bourbon you'd enjoy drinking. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a rich, complex flavor profile.
- Low and Slow is the Key: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. The 6-hour slow cook allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb all the delicious sauce.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking or briefly reduce the sauce on the stovetop after shredding.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: Try serving on brioche buns, over creamy mashed potatoes, or as a topping for loaded nachos for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 328kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 53mg
