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
- Prepare Chicken: Trim and season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place in the crock pot.
- Mix Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, vegetable oil, garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook: Pour sauce over chicken. Cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2.5 hours.
- Shred or Chop: Remove chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces, and return to sauce or serve separately.
- 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.
Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken
Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken is a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy dish made with tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich blend of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. It’s incredibly flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Serve it over rice, noodles, or vegetables for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner.
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes – 4 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients
2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper
1 cup honey
1 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves minced garlic or 1 teaspoon minced garlic in oil
1/2 cup onion, diced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Begin by trimming your chicken breasts and seasoning them with salt and pepper, then place them in your slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, vegetable oil, minced garlic, diced onion, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cook on low heat for 3-4 hours or on high heat for 1.5 to 2.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Once done, remove the chicken from the crock pot and cut it into bite-sized chunks.
Serve the honey bourbon chicken over rice or with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours (on low) or 1.5–2.5 hours (on high)
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American / Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 350–400 per serving (based on 6 servings)
