Name: Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts; 18 oz apricot preserves; 1 cup orange juice; 2 oz onion soup mix

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When I first stumbled upon the Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken recipe, I was intrigued. The thought of succulent, flavorful chicken cooked to perfection in a slow cooker had my taste buds tingling with excitement. I remember hosting friends for dinner, and after a long week, I wanted something that would not only satisfy our cravings but also require minimal effort on my part. This dish quickly became a staple in my meal rotation, as it brings together the sweetness of apricots and the zesty brightness of oranges, creating a unique flavor combination that never fails to impress.

As the slow cooker gently transforms the ingredients, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s even done! I recall the first time I served this dish; my friends were immediately curious about the delightful scent. The first bite was pure bliss, and watching their faces light up with pleasure made all the effort worth it. The Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table, sparking joy and conversation.

Cooking should be enjoyable, and this recipe embodies that philosophy, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones while still serving a delicious meal. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to recreate this dish; just a bit of enthusiasm and a love for good food! So, let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a special place in your kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
29 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Mixing Bowl, Slow Cooker

Why This Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken Is a Winner

It’s Effortless

One of the biggest reasons I adore the Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is how effortless it is. You simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic. There’s no need for extensive chopping or complex techniques. Just imagine coming home after a long day and savoring the aroma wafting through your home, knowing that a hearty meal awaits you.

Unique Flavor Profile

The combination of sweet apricots and tangy orange juice creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs these flavors, resulting in a dish that bursts with taste. It’s an unexpected twist that always surprises my guests and leaves them asking for the recipe.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and enjoy preparing meals in advance, this recipe is a total game-changer. You can easily double the ingredients and prepare enough for a week’s worth of dinners. Just portion it out and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick, easy meals.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

The Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is incredibly versatile. While it pairs beautifully with rice, you can serve it over quinoa or even with a fresh salad for a lighter option. It works well for weeknight dinners or even special occasions where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly

This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults alike. My children love the sweet taste, and it’s a great way to introduce them to new flavors without overwhelming their palates. Plus, it’s a complete meal in itself, so you don’t have to worry about serving a bunch of sides.

Minimal Cleanup

Finally, one of the best parts of using a slow cooker is the minimal cleanup. After a delightful meal, all you have to do is wash up the slow cooker and maybe a couple of utensils. This means more quality time with your loved ones and less time scrubbing pots and pans!

Essential Ingredients for Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken

The ingredients for Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken are simple yet essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role in ensuring the chicken is moist and infused with sweetness. The key players in this dish are the chicken, apricot preserves, and orange juice, which together create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, these breasts become tender and juicy as they slow cook in the sweet sauce. They soak up all the flavors, making each bite a delight.
18 oz apricot preserves: This ingredient adds a rich sweetness and depth to the dish, creating a beautiful glaze that coats the chicken perfectly.
1 cup orange juice: The acidity of the orange juice balances the sweetness of the apricot preserves, giving the dish a bright zing.
2 oz onion soup mix: This mix adds a savory element to the sweetness, contributing to the overall flavor complexity and enhancing the chicken’s taste.

Making This Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken

Cooking the Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is a simple, hands-off process that anyone can master. Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone raving.

Begin by placing the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Lay them flat and ensure they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
In a small bowl, combine the apricot preserves, orange juice, and onion soup mix. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully mixed together. This mixture is what will create that delicious glaze.
Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Use a spoon to coat the chicken thoroughly, making sure every piece gets a taste of that flavorful sauce.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Allow the chicken to cook for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender enough that it shreds easily with a fork. The low and slow method ensures maximum flavor infusion!
As the chicken nears completion, check its tenderness. It should be juicy, with a slight sweetness from the glaze.
Once ready, turn off the slow cooker and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to retain the juices.
Serve the chicken over a bed of brown rice, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for an extra pop of flavor.
Enjoy your meal with family and friends, engaging in warm conversations as you delight in the flavors of your creation. The Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is sure to impress!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow Cooker Size: Make sure to use a slow cooker that can fit the amount of chicken you’re preparing. A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Freezing: You can freeze any leftovers for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions: Try serving this dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread.

Tips and Variations

While the Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. Here are some tips to help you make it your own!

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Pairing: Serve this chicken with a side of steamed broccoli or over fluffy quinoa for a nutritious meal.
Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker for additional flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Garnish Ideas: Top with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.

What to Pair With Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken

When it comes to serving the delicious Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken, the right accompaniments can elevate the meal even further. Here are a few ideas:

Steamed Vegetables: Pair this dish with a medley of steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for a healthy balance.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the sweet sauce.
Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors wonderfully.
Crusty Bread: Offer some crusty bread on the side to mop up the flavorful sauce.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. It’s easy to serve and always a crowd-pleaser.
Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve with fresh fruit on the side or during winter with roasted vegetables for a cozy touch.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it may increase the cooking time. Make sure to check that the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. For optimal results, I recommend thawing the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

If you don’t have apricot preserves, you can try peach preserves or even mango chutney as a substitute. The goal is to maintain that sweet element that pairs beautifully with the chicken. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.

The chicken is done when it is tender and shreds easily with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking time can vary based on the size of the chicken breasts, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

The original recipe includes onion soup mix, which may contain gluten. Look for gluten-free soup mix options, or you can make your own blend with dried onions, garlic powder, and herbs to keep this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Apricot Orange Slow Cooker Chicken is truly a delightful dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; I promise it will become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nourishing!