This recipe requires minimal prep and lets the slow cooker do all the work. The chicken turns incredibly tender, while the apricot sauce creates a delicious balance of sweetness and savory depth. It’s family-friendly, versatile, and great for make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts apricot preserves or apricot jam onion soup mix garlic soy sauce chicken broth or water black pepper optional crushed red pepper flakes
Directions
Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix the apricot preserves, onion soup mix, garlic, soy sauce, and broth.
Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated.
Cover and cook on low until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Gently stir the sauce and chicken before serving.
Serve over rice, noodles, or with vegetables.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high Total time: about 5 hours
Variations
You can add sliced onions, bell peppers, or carrots for extra texture. For a tangy twist, stir in a little mustard or vinegar near the end of cooking. Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or breasts for a leaner option.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thawing first is recommended for even cooking and food safety.
Is this dish very sweet?
It’s mildly sweet; you can reduce sweetness by adding extra soy sauce or broth.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is tender.
What should I serve with apricot chicken?
Rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables work well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep and reheats well.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, just increase the cooking time slightly.
How do I thicken the sauce?
You can stir in a cornstarch slurry near the end and cook until thickened.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free onion soup mix and soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
Can I add spice?
Yes, crushed red pepper flakes or chili sauce add heat.
Does this work for meal prep?
Absolutely, it stores and reheats very well.
Conclusion
Crockpot Apricot Chicken is an easy, flavorful meal that fits perfectly into a busy schedule. With its tender chicken and sweet-savory sauce, it’s a dependable recipe that delivers comfort with minimal effort.
Crockpot Apricot Chicken is a sweet and savory slow cooker meal made with tender chicken simmered in a flavorful apricot sauce. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy days.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:5 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Total Time:5 hours
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Slow Cooker
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup apricot preserves or apricot jam
1 packet onion soup mix
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix apricot preserves, onion soup mix, garlic, soy sauce, chicken broth or water, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Gently stir the sauce and chicken before serving.
Serve warm over rice, noodles, or alongside vegetables.
Notes
Add vegetables like sliced onions, bell peppers, or carrots for more texture.Stir in a little mustard or vinegar for added tanginess.Use chicken thighs for richer flavor or breasts for a leaner version.To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.Freezes well for up to 2 months and reheats easily.
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