This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a juicy, flavorful meal that cooks while you relax! Just toss chicken, peach preserves, and BBQ sauce into a slow cooker and let it do the magic.
I love how the sweet peaches blend with tangy BBQ—it’s a tasty surprise! Serve it on rice or in a sandwich, and don’t be shy to lick your plate clean. 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple and healthy. You can also use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Peach Preserves: Peach preserves are ideal for that sweet touch, but feel free to substitute apricot jam or even mango chutney if needed. A good fruit jam can also work well!
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce is a must! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar version. You could try homemade BBQ sauce for a personal touch.
Onions and Garlic: While I love using onion and garlic for depth of flavor, you can omit them if you’re in a hurry, though I wouldn’t recommend it. They really enhance the dish!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient balances sweetness. If you don’t have any, lemon juice can also work to add a bit of acidity.
How Do I Make the Chicken Tender and Flavorful?
Slow cooking is the best way to go for tender, juicy chicken! Follow these tips for great results:
- First, avoid rushing the cooking process. Low and slow is key! Use LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Always check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- If you want more flavor, add spices or herbs to the chicken before cooking, like paprika or thyme.
Finally, shredding the chicken in the sauce helps it soak up all that delicious flavor!
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 (your favorite brand)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for balance)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a bit of oil for the slow cooker
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. All you have to do is mix the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly spraying the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or brushing a bit of oil to prevent sticking. This is a simple step but helps keep your cleanup easy!
2. Set the Foundation:
Slice the onion and place it evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base for the chicken to sit on.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them with salt and black pepper. Next, lay them on top of the sliced onions in the slow cooker.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the peach preserves, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Mix everything together until well combined to create a delicious sauce.
5. Cover the Chicken:
Pour the peach BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. This is where the magic happens!
6. Cook Away:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and can be shredded easily.
7. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce to soak in all that delicious flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the peach BBQ chicken hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or on sandwich buns. It’s not just a meal; it’s a joyful treat!
Enjoy this sweet and tangy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken with the comforting flavor of peaches and BBQ sauce!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. To thaw, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick method.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator the night before. Just place everything in the slow cooker in the morning and enjoy a delicious meal when you get home!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
What Should I Serve with Peach BBQ Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even inside sandwich buns. You could also serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
