When it comes to indulgent and flavorful slow-cooked meals, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is a standout favorite. This dish combines tender chicken, a rich bourbon-infused sauce, and aromatic spices for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying—a perfect match for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. However, traditional recipes often rely on high-carb ingredients like sugary sauces and sugary seasonings, making them off-limits for those following a keto, low-carb, or sugar-free lifestyle. Enter Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken , a delicious, low-carb version that swaps out high-carb ingredients for wholesome alternatives like sugar-free sweeteners and natural spices. This dish is perfectly savory, slightly sweet, and guilt-free—perfect for indulging without derailing your diet.
In this article, we’ll guide you through making this delightful Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken step-by-step, explore its nutritional benefits, share creative variations, and explain why it’s become a favorite among health-conscious home cooks. So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this sweet-and-savory, guilt-free creation!
Why Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Is a Must-Try
Perfect for Low-Carb and Keto Diets
By using sugar-free sweeteners and skipping sugary sauces, this recipe keeps the carb count low while delivering all the indulgence of classic bourbon chicken. It’s ideal for anyone following a ketogenic, low-carb, or sugar-free lifestyle.
Sweet, Savory, and Flavorful
The combination of tender chicken, smoky bourbon, tangy vinegar, and sugar-free sweetness creates a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent—a perfect balance of bold flavors.
Effortless and Hands-Off
This recipe requires minimal prep time and lets the slow cooker do all the work, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings. Simply assemble, set, and serve!
Health Benefits of Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Low in Carbs, High in Protein
Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and energized, while sugar-free sweeteners ensure no blood sugar spikes. Using fresh spices avoids processed additives entirely.
Packed with Nutrients
Garlic and ginger add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, while bourbon (in moderation) can aid digestion. Adding fresh herbs like parsley boosts the nutrient profile further.
Gluten-Free and Grain-Free
Since this recipe skips wheat-based ingredients entirely, it’s naturally gluten-free and grain-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
A Dish You Can Feel Good About
Using fresh, whole ingredients ensures this dish is free from refined sugars and processed additives, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup bourbon (ensure it’s sugar-free)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free sweetener (like erythritol or monk fruit)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce :
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), apple cider vinegar, sugar-free sweetener, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Assemble the Crock Pot :
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker and pour the sauce evenly over the top.
- Cook Low and Slow :
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken :
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy :
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
- Serve warm over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed greens for a complete low-carb meal.
Creative Variations for Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Smoky Twist
Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Veggie-Packed Version
Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
Teriyaki-Inspired Variation
Swap bourbon for a splash of water or broth and increase the ginger and garlic for a teriyaki-inspired twist.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken
- Use Quality Bourbon : Choose a bourbon you’d enjoy drinking, as its flavor will shine through in the dish.
- Adjust the Sweetness : Taste the sauce before adding it to the slow cooker and adjust the sugar-free sweetener to suit your preference.
- Thicken the Sauce : If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Store Properly : Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Why Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken Is Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, packing lunches for work, or simply craving something sweet and savory, this dish is versatile enough to fit any setting. Its rich flavors and tender texture ensure it’s a hit at any gathering, while its low-carb profile makes it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
For families, it’s a great way to introduce kids to healthier versions of their favorite comfort foods. And for those following a strict low-carb diet, it’s a lifesaver when cravings strike.
Conclusion: Indulge in Decadence Without the Guilt
Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture to enjoy a healthier version of a classic dish. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and endless customization possibilities, this dish is a must-try for anyone on a keto, paleo, or gluten-free journey.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and savor the joy of homemade goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish, lunchbox staple, or party centerpiece, Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
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Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: A Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly Twist on a Sweet and Savory Classic
Ingredients
Ingredients (with emojis):
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 onion (chopped)
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
Green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Add chicken, onion, and garlic to the crock pot. In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and ketchup. Pour over the chicken.
Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender. In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the crock pot to thicken the sauce. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve over rice!
Prep time: 10 mins
Yield: 6 servings
Calories: ~350 per serving