This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken slathered in sweet peach BBQ sauce makes dinner a breeze. Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal?
I’ve made this dish on busy days, and it’s always a hit! I just throw everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Perfect for those “I don’t feel like cooking” nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for quick cooking and easy shredding. You can swap them for chicken thighs for richer flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peach Preserves: They give a lovely sweetness to the dish. If you don’t have peach preserves, any fruit preserves or even a fruit salsa can work. Mango or apricot are tasty alternatives!
Barbecue Sauce: This adds the tangy flavor base. Use your favorite brand! If you prefer a healthier version, try a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own with tomato sauce and spices.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It provides acidity to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have this, white vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
How Do I Get Tender Chicken in My Slow Cooker?
To ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender, follow these tips:
- Season the chicken well before cooking—this enhances flavor.
- Cooking on low heat for a longer time helps break down the chicken fibers, making it super tender.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often; this can release heat and lengthen cooking time.
When it’s done, you can shred the chicken right in the sauce for even more flavor. Enjoy this simple, flavorful dish!
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup peach preserves (or peach jam)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is super easy and takes around 10 minutes of prep time. Depending on your slow cooker setting, it will take about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high to cook. Then, you can enjoy a delicious meal with little effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by placing your chicken breasts on a cutting board. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasonings in so every piece is well seasoned.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, pour in the peach preserves, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce. Use a whisk or a spoon to combine everything until it’s smooth and mixed thoroughly. This fruity BBQ sauce is going to add so much flavor!
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Take your seasoned chicken breasts and place them into the slow cooker. Make sure they are snug but not overcrowded. Then, pour the peach BBQ sauce all over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated generously.
4. Cook It Up:
Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re home for the day, choose low for 4-6 hours. If you’re out and about, high for 2-3 hours works great! The goal is to have cooked chicken that’s tender and easy to shred.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once your chicken is cooked through, you can either shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks or serve the whole breasts as they are. If shredding, let it sit in the sauce for a minute to soak up more flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To make it pretty, sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top. This dish is delightful served over rice, in sandwiches, or with your favorite sides like coleslaw or roasted veggies. Enjoy your flavor-packed meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to cook them on high for about 4-5 hours to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature. Always check that they’re fully cooked before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and season the chicken a day ahead. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, place the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and cook as directed for a hassle-free dinner!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist if needed.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with It?
This peach BBQ chicken pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. You can also serve it in sandwiches or with grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
