Imagine a dish that combines the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue, the warmth of bourbon, and the hearty comfort of chicken chili - all slow-cooked to perfection. This isn't just another chili recipe; it's a culinary adventure that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet experience. Our Smoky BBQ Bourbon Chicken Chili is so incredibly delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds (and the recipe)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the boneless, skinless chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easier cooking and serving.
- In a large bowl, combine the black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Make sure to drain the beans thoroughly before adding them to the bowl to avoid excess liquid in the chili.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, bourbon, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined. This mixture will provide the base flavor for your chili.
- In your crock pot, add the chopped chicken pieces. Pour the bean and tomato mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly. Then, pour the BBQ sauce and bourbon mixture over everything, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be cooked through and easily shred with a fork. If necessary, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to ensure it reaches the desired tenderness.
- Once the chicken is ready, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crock pot, mixing it into the chili to incorporate all the flavors. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the smoky BBQ bourbon chicken chili hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Tips
- Choose quality bourbon: The bourbon adds depth and complexity, so select a bourbon you'd enjoy drinking.
- Pat the chicken dry before cutting to ensure better browning and flavor absorption.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of extra bourbon in the last hour of cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate.
- Don't rush the cooking process - the low and slow method is key to developing rich, melded flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasonings at the end of cooking. The flavors will concentrate during slow cooking.
- Experiment with toppings like crispy bacon bits, jalapeños, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 369kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 80mg
