This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a tasty twist on dinner! Juicy chicken slow-cooked with sweet peach preserves and zesty BBQ sauce makes every bite delicious.
I think it’s perfect for busy days! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and it will be ready when you are—easy peasy! Serve it with rice or on a bun for a fun meal. 🍗🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to because they stay juicy in the slow cooker. If you’re in a pinch, you can use thighs or even frozen chicken; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Peach Preserves: These add sweetness and flavor. If you’re out, peach jam works too! Or for fewer calories, consider using a fruit spread or a homemade mixture of canned peaches and a little sugar.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized touch! You can also make it healthier by choosing a low-sugar variety or making your own with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices.
Onions and Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor, but you can use onion powder and garlic powder in a pinch. Just reduce the amounts since they’re more concentrated.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. You can replace it with white vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have it on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist and tender, be sure to add liquid ingredients like the peach preserves and BBQ sauce, which helps prevent drying out. Here are some tips:
- Start with enough sauce to fully coat the chicken; it locks in moisture.
- Cook on low instead of high for an even more tender chicken, as low cooking creates steam, enhancing juiciness.
- Let it rest after cooking before shredding, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup peach preserves (or peach jam)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Butter, for mashed potatoes (optional)
- Mashed potatoes, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for setting it and forgetting it while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the base for your tasty meal!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the peach preserves, BBQ sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a little kick!). Stir it all together until it’s well mixed.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the peach BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well coated to absorb all those delicious flavors.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once it’s finished cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing it well with the sauce.
6. Serve:
Serve your Peach BBQ Chicken hot, either over a bed of mashed potatoes or on sandwich buns. It pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes if you choose.
7. Optional Mashed Potatoes:
If you’d like to add a side, cook some red-skinned potatoes, mash them up with a bit of butter, and serve them alongside the chicken. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Enjoy your tender and flavorful Peach BBQ Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken breasts, there’s no need to thaw them before putting them in the slow cooker. Just adjust the cooking time to about 1-2 hours longer to ensure they cook through completely.
What BBQ Sauce Works Best?
You can use any BBQ sauce you love! A sweeter sauce pairs well with the peach preserves, but feel free to experiment with smoky or spicy varieties to suit your taste preferences.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded chicken for later use—just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing!
Can I Add Additional Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Tossing in chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini about halfway through cooking can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure that they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
