Looking for a hassle-free yet delicious dinner option that the whole family will love? Look no further than Slow Cooker Honey Apricot Glazed Chicken! This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy apricot glaze, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without all the fuss. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer!)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste, then place them in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the apricot preserves, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried thyme, and optional grated ginger. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the Glaze Over the Chicken: Pour the apricot glaze mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Baste the Chicken: During the last hour of cooking, baste the chicken with the glaze from the slow cooker every 30 minutes to ensure maximum flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the chicken, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Chicken: You can use either fresh or frozen chicken for this recipe. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less honey or apricot preserves.
- Adding Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe. Thighs are often more flavorful and tend to stay moist during the cooking process.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the apricot glaze and marinate the chicken in it overnight in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, you can substitute the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Additionally, reduce or omit the apricot preserves, as they can contain added sugars. Serve the glazed chicken with a side of low-carb vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Honey Apricot Glazed Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its sweet and tangy glaze and tender chicken, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a simple yet satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to please. So fire up your slow cooker and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
