Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Crockpot Apricot Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet apricot preserves with tender chicken, creating a meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken recipe stands out due to its simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just four ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With only 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those with busy schedules.
• Minimal Ingredients – Using just four key ingredients means fewer trips to the grocery store!
• Comforting Flavor – The sweet and tangy sauce enhances the chicken perfectly, making every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it over rice, pasta, or even in wraps—this dish adapts to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly – It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything on hand makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over several hours.
• Mixing bowl – Useful for combining your sauce ingredients before pouring them over the chicken.
• Measuring cups – Accurate measurements ensure perfect balance in flavors.
• Wooden spoon – Great for mixing without scratching your slow cooker.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (or boneless skinless chicken thighs)
– 1 cup apricot preserves
– 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
– 1 oz. packet Lipton onion soup mix
– 1/8 tsp. black pepper
– 2 pinches red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

Add the apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir these sauce ingredients together over the chicken until well combined.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 4: De-Grease (Optional)

If desired, de-grease the sauce before serving by laying a paper towel flat over it. After a few seconds, lift it up; most of the grease will stick to the paper towel, ensuring a cleaner sauce.

Step 5: Shred or Serve Whole

You can shred the chicken using two forks or leave it whole based on your preference.

Step 6: Serve with Rice

Serve your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is not just a delicious main dish; it can also be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you want a comforting plate or something more adventurous, here are some serving suggestions.

Over Rice

• Serve the tender apricot chicken over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair your apricot chicken with steamed veggies, such as broccoli or green beans. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in taco shells with fresh toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. A fun twist on traditional tacos!

On a Salad

• Use the shredded chicken as a topping on mixed greens. Drizzle with additional Catalina dressing for extra flavor.

With Quinoa

• Replace rice with quinoa for a healthier whole grain option. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the sweetness of the apricot chicken.

As a Sandwich

• Make a delicious sandwich by placing shredded chicken on a bun with your favorite condiments. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken turns out flavorful and tender every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Always use fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture and taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the black pepper and red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Use Low Heat: Cooking on LOW for 6 hours allows the flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Degrease Before Serving: Removing excess grease will enhance the dish’s overall flavor and presentation.
• Shred or Serve Whole: Shredding gives you a cozy feel, while serving whole pieces can impress guests at dinner parties.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Complementing your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with tasty side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for soaking up that apricot sauce.
2. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, which contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the apricot chicken.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with this dish, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the apricot flavors beautifully.
6. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice as a light base that won’t overshadow the main dish.
7. Green Salad: A simple green salad can refresh your palate and add some crunch to your meal.
8. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad tossed in vinaigrette adds an unexpected twist and pairs well with the warm chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people love making Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken, but some common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opt for boneless skinless breasts or thighs. Avoid bone-in pieces, as they may require different cooking times.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking on LOW for 6 hours is ideal. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so set a timer.
• Neglecting to stir the sauce: Make sure to mix the apricot preserves, dressing, and onion soup mix well over the chicken. This ensures even flavor distribution throughout the dish.
• Skipping degreasing: Before serving, remove excess grease from the sauce using a paper towel. This simple step enhances the dish’s overall taste.
• Not pairing with sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables. Don’t skip sides; they complete your meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken:

Can I use other fruits instead of apricot?

You can experiment with peach or mango preserves for a different flavor profile while keeping the same basic recipe structure.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free onion soup mix and ensure your Catalina dressing is also gluten-free.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity and adjust cooking time if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings—give it a try!