Easy Crockpot Apricot Chicken – Sweet & Tangy Perfection

This Crockpot Apricot Chicken is the ultimate blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, all cooked to tender perfection in the slow cooker. With only four ingredients, this dish is as easy as it is delicious. The combination of apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, and dry onion soup mix creates a flavorful sauce that coats the chicken beautifully, making it a fantastic dish for any weeknight dinner or gathering.

Scroll to the bottom for recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Crockpot Apricot Chicken

This dish takes a traditional favorite and adds a modern twist, thanks to the easy use of Catalina or Russian dressing and the timeless sweetness of apricot preserves. Slow cooking ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender while allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly, delivering a delightful combination of flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients: With just four simple ingredients, you can have an impressive meal with almost no effort.
• Tender Chicken: Cooking the chicken in the slow cooker ensures it remains juicy and tender, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Perfect for Busy Days: Let the slow cooker do the work for you while you go about your day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 650mg

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Tips for Making Crockpot Apricot Chicken

• Serve Over Rice or Noodles: This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or egg noodles. The sweet and tangy sauce is great for spooning over these sides.
• Add Some Vegetables: For a complete meal, add some fresh or frozen vegetables during the last hour of cooking. Broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans work particularly well.
• Leftover Friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, making it even more flavorful the next day!

Cooking Tips

1. Alternative Dressing: If you don’t have Catalina dressing on hand, Russian dressing works just as well in this recipe. Both provide that tangy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the apricot preserves.
2. Spice it Up: For a hint of spice, add some red pepper flakes or a touch of sriracha to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken.
3. Shred the Chicken: If you prefer shredded chicken, simply shred it with two forks after cooking and let it soak up more of the sauce before serving.

Optional Variations

• Swap the Preserves: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute apricot preserves with peach preserves or even orange marmalade.
• Tangy Citrus Kick: Add a splash of fresh lime or orange juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Throw in some fresh thyme or rosemary during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an aromatic finish.

Crockpot Apricot Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (fresh or thawed)
• 16-ounce jar Smucker’s Apricot Preserves
• 8 ounces Kraft Catalina Dressing (or substitute with Russian Dressing)
• 1-ounce packet Lipton Dry Onion Soup Mix

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 6 hours until fully cooked and tender.
2. Drain the juices: After the cooking time is complete, drain the excess juices from the crockpot.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, Catalina dressing, and Lipton Dry Onion Soup Mix.
4. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken. Cover and continue cooking on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully coated and the sauce is heated through.
5. Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve with rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Easy Crockpot Apricot Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that come together with minimal effort. The slow-cooked chicken soaks up the rich flavors of the apricot sauce, making this dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. It’s a great go-to recipe when you want something flavorful, comforting, and quick to prepare!

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish—your family will thank you for it!