Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Chicken is not just a recipe—it's a magical journey of flavors that combines the tender, juicy goodness of chicken with the sweet and warm embrace of cinnamon-infused apples. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the most irresistible aroma, where your slow cooker has been working its magic, creating a meal that's both effortless and incredibly delicious. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for simple yet impressive recipes, or someone who craves comfort food with a gourmet twist, this dish is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner solution!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them into thin, even wedges approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Distribute the apple slices evenly over and around the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle the ground cinnamon uniformly across the chicken and apples.
- Pour the apple cider slowly over the chicken, ensuring it covers the bottom of the slow cooker without disturbing the seasoning.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 5-6 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken and apples from the slow cooker and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Reduce the remaining liquid in a saucepan for a quick pan sauce if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that will hold their shape during slow cooking.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Always pat your chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure better salt and pepper adherence and more even browning.
- Don't Overcook: While slow cookers are forgiving, check your chicken at the 5-hour mark to prevent drying out. The ideal internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
- Enhance the Sauce: For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of maple syrup to the apple cider.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance. You can season the chicken and slice the apples the night before, storing them separately in the refrigerator.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
- Leftover Magic: This chicken reheats beautifully and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or shredded for quick lunch options.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 184kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
