Imagine a dinner that practically cooks itself, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of sweet and savory goodness. This Slow Cooker Apricot Cranberry Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a gourmet masterpiece with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 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.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, soy sauce, minced garlic, and dried cranberries until well combined, creating a smooth sauce.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the prepared apricot-cranberry sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting, allowing the chicken to cook slowly for 6 hours. This method ensures tender, juicy chicken that absorbs all the sweet and savory flavors.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Optional: For a glossier finish, you can briefly broil the chicken in the oven for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute, then plate and garnish with additional dried cranberries if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Pat Dry for Better Seasoning: Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning to help salt and pepper adhere better and promote better browning.
- Layer Flavors: Don't be afraid to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for extra depth.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness - 165°F is the magic number for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep - it stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
