This Crock Pot Apricot Chicken is a tasty dish that’s super easy to make! With tender chicken and a sweet apricot sauce, it’s a hit for dinner.
Plus, you just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. I love serving it over rice for a complete meal—so simple and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are great for this recipe as they stay moist during cooking. You can use boneless thighs or even breast meat, but they may cook faster—keep an eye on them!
Apricot Preserves: They bring sweetness and flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, peach preserves or orange marmalade work nicely too. You can also make a homemade version using apricots cooked with sugar.
Ketchup: This adds tang and flavor depth. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, try using tomato sauce or leave it out for a lighter sauce—just add a little extra seasoning.
Onion: I prefer using yellow onions for their sweetness, but you can swap in shallots or even green onions for a different flavor twist. If you’re onion-averse, some minced garlic can be a good alternative.
How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, there’s an easy trick! After your chicken is fully cooked, simply take out the thighs and leave the sauce in the crock pot. Increase the heat to high and let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This will reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Turn the crock pot to high, leave the lid off, and stir occasionally.
- Once it thickens to your liking, return the chicken and coat it in the sauce before serving.
This method gives you a sauce that’s perfect for scooping up with rice or potatoes!
Crock Pot Apricot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 can (14 oz) apricot preserves
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crock Pot Apricot Chicken recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Then, let your slow cooker work its magic for about 6 to 7 hours on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a yummy dinner ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor nicely!
2. Arrange in the Crock Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs at the bottom of your crock pot, arranging them evenly. This helps them cook uniformly.
3. Make the Apricot Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, chopped onion, ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is combined.
4. Add the Sauce to Chicken:
Pour the apricot sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the crock pot. Make sure all the chicken pieces are nicely coated with that sweet and tangy sauce.
5. Let it Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know the chicken is ready when it’s fully cooked and tender.
6. Thicken the Sauce (optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken thighs once cooked. Stir the sauce in the crock pot, then cook on high uncovered for 15-20 minutes to reduce and thicken up.
7. Coat the Chicken:
After thickening, return the chicken to the sauce and make sure it’s well-coated. It’s time for the final touch!
8. Garnish & Serve:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley right before serving for a pop of color! Serve your delicious apricot chicken over steamed rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that fantastic sauce.
Enjoy your Crock Pot Apricot Chicken with its rich, sweet, tangy sauce and tender chicken! It’s a delightful meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure they cook for longer. Plan for an additional hour on low or 30 minutes more on high to ensure they are fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Apricot Preserves?
If apricot preserves aren’t available, you can use peach preserves or orange marmalade as a tasty alternative. Just note that it may slightly alter the final flavor but will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down first. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then cook it in the crock pot the following day. Just adjust the cooking time as needed if starting from cold ingredients.