There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken wafting through your home. Imagine succulent chicken bathing in a sweet and tangy apricot sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. You can almost hear the applause of your taste buds as they rejoice in this delightful meal.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken?
- What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken?
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it comes with a sprinkle of nostalgia. Picture this: I made this dish for a family gathering once, and it quickly became the highlight of the evening. Everyone was raving about it, and I felt like a culinary rock star! Trust me; you’ll want to make this for gatherings, cozy nights in, or any time you feel a little peckish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The balance of sweet and savory flavors will leave everyone wanting more
- Its vibrant color and glossy sauce make it visually stunning on any plate
- Enjoy it over rice or veggies for a versatile meal that shines at any occasion
I still remember the first time I served this dish; my friends couldn’t stop asking for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Apricot Preserves: Look for a high-quality brand for the best sweetness and flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness while adding depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give an aromatic boost that complements the apricots wonderfully.
Onion: Sweet onions work best here; they caramelize nicely during cooking.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor with its nutty undertones—don’t skip this part!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Chop your onion and mince your garlic to have everything ready for action.
Layer the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. They should be snug but not overcrowded—like friends at a party!
Add Flavor Bombs: Pour apricot preserves evenly over the chicken and add soy sauce, minced garlic, sliced onions, and sesame oil on top.
Season Generously: Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper over everything like confetti. This adds a touch of spice that beautifully balances the sweetness.
Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low heat and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours. The chicken should be tender and infused with flavor when it’s done.
Serve It Up: Once cooked, shred the chicken gently with two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir everything together so each bite bursts with flavor before serving over rice or steamed vegetables.
Now that you know how to whip up this crowd-pleaser, get ready for compliments from everyone around! Not only will you enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor, but you’ll also have plenty of time to relax while it cooks itself.
You Must Know
- Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is not just delicious; it’s a time-saver!
- The sweet apricot glaze fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings
- Serve it over rice for a complete meal that looks stunning and tastes even better
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken thighs in a skillet for added flavor before placing them in the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the dish and enhances the overall taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out apricot preserves for peach or mango if desired. Adding a sprinkle of chili flakes can also elevate the flavor profile with a delightful kick!
Storing & Reheating
To store, place leftover Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its juicy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight before cooking
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while keeping that umami punch
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs—they brighten up every bite!
Sharing my first attempt at Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken still makes me chuckle; I accidentally used double the apricot preserves and ended up with a sweet surprise that my friends absolutely loved!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken?
Yes, but thawing beforehand ensures even cooking and better texture.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken?
Serve it with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as an alternative to regular soy sauce.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy apricot sauce. This easy-to-make recipe fills your home with an irresistible aroma, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it over rice or steamed vegetables for a meal that’s both visually stunning and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium sweet onion, sliced
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker without overcrowding.
- Pour apricot preserves and soy sauce over the chicken, then add garlic, onion, and sesame oil.
- Season with black pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix well before serving over rice or veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





