Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Crockpot Apricot Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with tender chicken, resulting in a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken will impress everyone at the table. With just four simple ingredients and the ease of slow cooking, you can create a comforting dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With only four main ingredients, this recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal prep time.
• Flavorful: The combination of apricot preserves and Catalina dressing creates a unique sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice for a hearty meal or with your favorite side dishes for added variety.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This gadget allows you to cook meals effortlessly over several hours, resulting in tender chicken without much fuss.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your sauce ingredients before pouring them over the chicken.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your flavors balance perfectly in the dish.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (or boneless skinless chicken thighs)

For the Sauce

• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 1 cup Catalina salad dressing
• 1 oz. packet Lipton onion soup mix

For Seasoning

• 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 at the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

Add the apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes over the chicken. Stir gently to combine all sauce ingredients well.

Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on LOW for 6 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist.

Step 4: De-Grease Before Serving

Once cooked, consider de-greasing the sauce for a cleaner finish. Lay a paper towel flat over the sauce; after a few seconds, lift it up to remove excess grease easily.

Step 5: Shred or Serve Whole

You can shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or serve it whole depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve with Rice

Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken over rice or with any preferred sides. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy a sweet and tangy meal. This dish pairs well with various sides, enhancing its flavors and making it a complete meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the apricot chicken over steamed rice for a filling meal. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for a fun twist.

As a Sandwich

• Place the shredded apricot chicken on a bun or bread for a quick sandwich. Add some crunchy slaw for extra texture.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor, though breasts work well too.
• Layer ingredients wisely: Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding sauces, ensuring even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust pepper or add herbs if desired for extra flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the cooked chicken to sit in the sauce for about 10 minutes after cooking to absorb more flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

Complementing your Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, this rice pairs perfectly with the sweet apricot sauce.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich contrast to the tangy chicken.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus adds freshness.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw helps balance the sweetness of the apricot chicken with its tangy dressing.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with veggies offers a healthy alternative that complements the dish well.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers dressed in vinegar can cleanse your palate between bites of rich chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoiding these pitfalls will help you achieve the perfect dish.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Avoid bone-in cuts as they may not cook evenly.
• Neglecting to stir the sauce: Failing to mix the apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, and onion soup mix can lead to uneven flavors. Stir well before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking on LOW for 6 hours is ideal. Overcooking can result in dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer if unsure.
• Skipping the de-greasing step: Grease can accumulate in the sauce. De-grease using a paper towel for a cleaner flavor and texture.
• Not pairing with the right sides: Serving this dish over rice enhances its flavor. Consider adding steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Good for up to 3 months; label with dates for better tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish on medium power, stirring halfway through until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken that might help clarify any doubts.

Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s advisable to thaw it first for even cooking.

What can I substitute for Catalina dressing?

You can use any sweet vinaigrette or homemade dressing that has similar flavors if Catalina dressing is unavailable.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken?

The dish is mildly spicy due to red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely based on your spice preference.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that makes it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different side dishes or add-ins, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy it. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious results!