Sticky Sweet Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
This easy Slow-Cooker Apricot Chicken recipe is sweet and savory, perfect for busy weeknights. Made with chicken thighs, apricot jam, and soy sauce (or coconut aminos), it’s a delicious dinner the whole family will love!
A Sweet and Savory Dinner You’ll Want on Repeat
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both easy and full of flavor, this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken recipe is perfect for you. Preparing takes just a few minutes, and then your slow cooker does all the work. Made with tender chicken thighs, sweet apricot jam, and a splash of soy sauce, this dish is a perfect mix of sweet and savory.
This is one of those easy recipes you’ll come back to again and again. The chicken becomes super juicy as it cooks low and slow, and the sticky sauce is so good you’ll want to drizzle it over everything! Whether you’re cooking for your family or want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this apricot chicken is sure to be a hit.
Why I love this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken:
Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
- 1 jar (13 oz) apricot jam – Adds the perfect sweet base to the sauce with a fruity, sticky glaze.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut liquid aminos) – Brings a salty, savory balance to the sweetness. Use coconut aminos for a lower sodium option.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Adds a slight tang and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 1 envelope Lipton onion soup mix – Packs in tons of onion flavor with zero chopping.
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt – Boosts the overall flavor with a blend of spices.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder) – Fresh or powdered, this gives the dish a warm, savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger) – Adds a touch of spice and a hint of warmth to the sauce.
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or 3 chicken breasts) – Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, but breasts work well, too, if that’s what you have.
- Chopped green onions for garnish – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh crunch on top.
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish – A nutty, flavorful finishing touch that adds a bit of texture.
Easy Crockpot Cooking Instructions
- Add all ingredients except the chicken to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine into a sauce.
- Place the chicken into the slow cooker and stir to coat it evenly with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the chicken, then shred it with two forks or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and mix it back into the sauce.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onion. Serve warm over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, and pair with your favorite vegetable side dish for a complete meal.
A Lighter Swap: Coconut Aminos Instead of Soy Sauce
If you’re watching your sodium or just looking for a lighter option, Coconut Liquid Aminos is a great substitute for soy sauce in this recipe or any recipe. It has a similar salty, savory flavor but with way less sodium—making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. It blends perfectly with the sweetness of the apricot jam, giving you the same rich, flavorful sauce that satisfies this dish. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, which is a bonus for anyone with dietary restrictions!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? This Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches!
Storage: Let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and be sure to label it with the date.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If it seems a little thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
The Perfect Sweet and Savory Finish
If you’re looking for a delicious dinner that’s easy, comforting, and full of flavor, this Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken checks all the boxes. The sweetness of the apricot jam mixed with savory soy sauce makes every bite unforgettable. Serve it over fluffy white rice to soak up all that amazing sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for dinner time. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday or a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to’s for an easy weeknight dinner.
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Sticky Sweet Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
Equipment
Ingredients
- 16 oz jar apricot jam
- ¼ cup coconut liquid aminos or soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger minced
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs or 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- chopped green onion for garnish
- toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except the chicken to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine into a sauce.
- Place the chicken into the slow cooker and stir to coat it evenly with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the chicken, then shred it with two forks or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and mix it back into the sauce.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onion. Serve warm over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, and pair with your favorite vegetable side dish for a complete meal.
