Description
Tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with a sweet and spicy apricot glaze, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a thickened sauce. This easy recipe combines apricot preserves, sweet chili sauce, and a blend of spices for a comforting and delicious meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 - 2 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (approx. 8-12 thighs, depending on size)
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 small onion, chopped
Sauce
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp honey
- ½ tsp red chili flakes
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Thickening Slurry
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 Tbsp cold water
Optional Garnishes
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season them generously with sea salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, combine apricot preserves, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, red chili flakes, and chopped onion. Stir this mixture well, then pour it evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and set aside. Mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth to form a slurry. Pour the slurry slowly into the crockpot and stir to combine with the cooking liquid.
- Simmer the Sauce: Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve: Return the chicken to the thickened sauce, spooning it over the top to coat well. Optionally, shred or pull the chicken into smaller pieces. Serve warm over rice, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs stay juicier during slow cooking.
- The sauce can be adjusted for sweetness or heat by adding more honey or chili flakes.
- Serve over steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
