Crockpot Sweet Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra layer of texture, you can transfer the cooked wings to a baking sheet and place them under a broiler for 3 to 5 minutes after they come out of the slow cooker. This step helps to crisp up the skin and further caramelize the sugars in the bourbon glaze. Keep a very close eye on them during this process, as the sugars can burn quickly under high heat, which would detract from the overall flavor.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze before pouring it over the wings. This adjustment adds a subtle heat that cuts through the sweetness of the bourbon, creating a more complex flavor profile.

Adjust the quantity of added spice based on your personal heat tolerance, starting with a small amount and tasting the sauce before adding more to ensure the balance remains pleasant.

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Wings: Add two tablespoons of hot sauce or one teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture for a significant heat boost that complements the sweet bourbon notes.
• Garlicky Bourbon Wings: Stir in three cloves of minced fresh garlic into the glaze before cooking to add a savory depth and aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with the sweet sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Ensure the wings have cooled to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing them in the fridge. Properly stored, the chicken will remain safe to eat for up to 3 to 4 days. When storing, keep the wings in a single layer if possible to prevent them from sticking together excessively, which helps when reheating them later.

You can prepare the bourbon glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. The chicken wings can be cleaned and patted dry the night before, then kept in the refrigerator until the cooking time.

This preparation makes the actual cooking day very efficient. Simply combine the prepped ingredients in the slow cooker and start the cycle when needed, allowing you to enjoy the meal with minimal effort during a busy schedule.

Serving ideas

Serve these wings immediately while they are hot and the glaze is at its stickiest consistency. They pair perfectly with classic sides like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple coleslaw to balance the richness of the glazed chicken.

Providing a few extra napkins is recommended, as the sticky nature of the glaze is part of the experience. The presentation is enhanced by garnishing the platter with a few fresh green onion slices for a pop of color.

Consider serving these wings as the centerpiece of a game day spread or a casual dinner party. They work well alongside other finger foods, but their bold, sweet, and savory flavor profile makes them a standout dish.

If you are serving a larger group, you can double the recipe, provided your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra wings without overcrowding. Keep the serving platter warm if possible to ensure the glaze stays smooth and easy to enjoy throughout the meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Sweet Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 3 lb chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup bourbon glaze, store-bought or made ahead

Instructions

1. Arrange the raw chicken wings in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker basin. Ensure the wings are not overcrowded to promote even cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the sliced green onions evenly over the top of the raw chicken wings. Follow this by sprinkling the black pepper generously over the entire batch to build a foundational layer of spice.
3. Pour the bourbon glaze over the wings, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on high for 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Once the wings are fully cooked and tender, use tongs to remove them from the slow cooker. Transfer the glossy, caramelized wings to a large white serving platter for immediate presentation.

Contains: gluten, soy

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

15 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

12 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.