1-First Step: Start by seasoning your 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs with kosher salt and pepper to taste on both sides. This preps the meat for maximum flavor absorption, making it SO tender later. Place the seasoned chicken directly into your crockpot for an easy start.

2-Second Step: In a medium bowl, mix together 1/3 cup bourbon (or a substitute like apple juice), 3/4 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup soy sauce, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Whisk until combined this creates the sweet sauce that defines this bourbon chicken with sweet sauce magic! Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot.

3-Third Step: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 3 hours. This slow cooking process lets the flavors meld, turning the chicken into melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Keep an eye on it if you’re adapting for dietary needs, like using low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter version.

4-Fourth Step: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, prepare the thickener in a small bowl by whisking 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. This step is crucial for that perfect sauce consistency, and it’s easy to adjust for gluten-free by using a cornstarch alternative.

5-Fifth Step: Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the sauce in the crockpot, stirring gently to combine. Let it cook for the remaining time to thicken up, enhancing the dish’s appeal. This works great for busy parents who need a hands-off meal with a professional finish!

6-Sixth Step: Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for a minute before serving. Spoon the sauce over rice and garnish with green onions if you like. For variations, serve with veggies to make it diet-friendly the total time is just 4 hours and 35 minutes, yielding 6 servings of pure joy!