Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken

Quick Benefits

  • Effortless prep: Just mix the sauce and let your slow cooker do the magic.
  • Family-friendly: Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy—great for kids and adults alike.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Stores and reheats wonderfully.
  • Versatile: Serve with rice, noodles, or veggies.

Essential Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp pre-minced garlic in oil)
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Preparation Steps

  1. Prepare Chicken: Trim and season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place in the crock pot.
  2. Mix Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, vegetable oil, garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cook: Pour sauce over chicken. Cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2.5 hours.
  4. Shred or Chop: Remove chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces, and return to sauce or serve separately.
  5. Serve: Spoon over rice, noodles, or your preferred side. Enjoy!

Health Benefits

  • Lean protein: Chicken breast is high in protein and low in fat.
  • Heart-healthy ingredients: Garlic and onions support heart health.
  • Customizable sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option.
  • Great for portion control: Easily divide into healthy servings.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over white or brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
  • Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a lime wedge.
  • Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Creative Variations

  • Add pineapple for a tropical twist.
  • Use boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  • Mix in sliced bell peppers or snow peas during the last 30 minutes for added texture.
  • Turn it into honey bourbon chicken tacos with slaw and tortillas.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat gently in a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Pro Tips

  • Don’t overcook the chicken—it stays juicier when just cooked through.
  • For a thicker sauce, remove chicken at the end and reduce the sauce on the stovetop for 5–10 minutes.
  • Want extra flavor? Marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just increase the cooking time by 30–60 minutes. Make sure it reaches 165°F internally.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick. Adjust red pepper flakes to taste.

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and let naturally release for 5 minutes.

Q: What’s the best substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup can work, but will slightly change the flavor.

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