Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken Recipe
You’ll love this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve prepared this dish, and each time, it never fails to garner compliments. The combination of apricot jam and French dressing creates a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you! I appreciate how I can set it and forget it, allowing me to focus on other things.
It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
Making Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is a delightful journey into the world of easy, flavorful meals. Just imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering smell of chicken simmering in a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s like a warm hug from your kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet while giving you more time to kick back and relax. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to plunge into this culinary adventure.
Here’s what you’ll need for this fabulous Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken:
- 3 lbs skinless chicken pieces (chicken breasts, cut in half if you like)
- 1 cup sugar-free apricot jam (or regular if you prefer)
- 1 cup fat-free French dressing (regular works too)
- 1 (1 1/2 ounce) package dry onion soup mix
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup chicken broth
- A couple of tablespoons of coconut oil or vegetable oil (for browning, if desired)
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients a bit. First off, if you’re trying to cut back on sugar, the sugar-free apricot jam is a fantastic swap. But don’t worry, if you can’t find it, regular jam will work just as well.
The French dressing adds a unique twist—sweet, tangy, and a little unexpected, right? And don’t skip the onion soup mix; it’s like a secret weapon that adds depth and richness to the dish.
You can even get creative with the chicken; boneless thighs work wonderfully too, depending on your preference. So, whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned pro, you’ve got everything you need to make this dish a hit. Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken. First off, if you haven’t already, grab your 3 lbs of skinless chicken pieces.
Now, if you’re feeling fancy, you can take a couple of minutes to brown them in a pan with some coconut oil or vegetable oil—just a couple of tablespoons will do. Honestly, this step is optional, but it really does add a lovely depth of flavor to the chicken. Just imagine that sizzle as it hits the pan. If you’re short on time (or just feeling lazy, like I often do), go ahead and toss the chicken straight into the slow cooker. No judgment here.
Once your chicken is in the slow cooker, grab a medium bowl and mix together 1 cup of sugar-free apricot jam, 1 cup of fat-free French dressing, and 1 (1 1/2 ounce) package of dry onion soup mix. It might sound a bit odd at first, but trust me, this combo is what makes your chicken sing with flavor.
Pour this sweet and tangy sauce over the chicken, making sure every piece gets a nice coating. Cover it up with the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for just 3-4 hours. As you go about your day, you’ll be tantalized by that wonderful aroma wafting through your home.
Now, here’s the magic moment: during the last half-hour of cooking, it’s time to thicken that delicious sauce. Mix together 1/4 cup of cornstarch with 1 cup of chicken broth until it’s smooth, and then stir it into the chicken and sauce mixture.
Pop the lid back on and let it thicken a bit. When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to bring it all together, and voilà! You’ve got a meal that’s not just easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.
Serve it over rice, barley, or pasta, and watch everyone at the table dig in with smiles. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a kitchen superstar, even if you barely lifted a finger. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken Substitutions & Variations
While you’ve got your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken simmering away, it’s also a great time to think about how you can personalize this dish.
For instance, if you prefer a tangier flavor, swap out the apricot jam for peach or mango jam. You can also experiment with different dressings; a zesty Italian dressing adds a unique twist.
If you’re looking to cut calories, try using skinless chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots in the final hour of cooking can boost the nutrition and flavor.
Finally, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some ginger or garlic for an aromatic touch. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level.
I love serving this dish over fluffy rice; it absorbs the delicious apricot sauce perfectly. Alternatively, you can use barley for a nutty flavor or toss in some pasta for a comforting twist.
For veggies, steamed broccoli or green beans add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can also balance the sweetness of the chicken.
If you want something heartier, mashed potatoes make a creamy base that complements the savory sauce beautifully.
Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
Additional Tips & Notes
A few simple tips can enhance your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken experience. First, don’t skip the browning step; it adds a delicious depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, go ahead and throw the chicken directly into the slow cooker, but expect a lighter taste.
Next, consider adjusting the sweetness by using less jam or choosing a sugar-free option if you’re watching your sugar intake. For a tangy twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix in a bit more cornstarch during the final half hour. Finally, leftovers make for a tasty sandwich filling, so don’t hesitate to save some! Enjoy your cooking!