This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is all about sweet and tangy flavor! Juicy chicken simmers all day in a yummy blend of peaches and barbecue sauce, making it a breeze to cook.
Talk about tasty! I love how the chicken practically falls apart when you fork it. Serve it with rice or on buns, and you’ve got a family-favorite meal without any fuss! 🍗🍑
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great here. My preference is thighs for their juicy flavor. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can also be used once cooked.
Peach Preserves: Peach preserves add sweetness; however, you can substitute with peach nectar or even apricot preserves if you’re in a pinch. I find that apricot still gives a nice fruity kick!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand, but consider opting for a smoky flavor to complement the peaches. I sometimes mix in a little homemade sauce for a personal touch.
Onion: A small onion adds depth. If you’re not a fan, shallots or green onions could be milder alternatives.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but really helps balance the sweetness. You might also use lemon juice if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Achieve Tender, Shredded Chicken?
Getting that tender, effortlessly shredded chicken is the key to this dish. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting! Here’s how:
- Place sliced onions at the bottom for flavor and moisture.
- Season the chicken lightly but evenly to enhance its naturally savory taste.
- Let it cook slowly; patience is crucial! You want the chicken to be fork-tender, so err on the side of longer cooking times if unsure.
- After cooking, shred using two forks and mix it back in the sauce for extra juiciness—this is where the magic happens!
Pair it with your choice of sides; it goes well with mashed potatoes or on a bun for a fun serve-your-own meal.
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tanginess)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you can set it to cook. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. So, in total, you’re looking at around 6-8 hours for cooking, but it’s mostly hands-off time while the slow cooker does all the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by laying the sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for your chicken and keep it nice and moist while it cooks.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts or thighs and season them lightly with salt, pepper, and the smoked paprika if you’re using it. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks!
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Now, place the seasoned chicken directly on top of the sliced onions in the slow cooker.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the peach preserves, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, and the apple cider vinegar if you want that extra tang. Stir the ingredients together until well mixed.
5. Pour the Sauce:
Take the delicious peach BBQ sauce mixture and pour it evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well coated!
6. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to have the chicken become very tender and easy to shred.
7. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
8. Combine Again:
Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir it really well, so the chicken is coated in all that sweet, tangy sauce.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or on toasted sandwich buns. This dish is sure to be a hit!
This recipe is all about tender chicken infused with a delightful peach flavor and tangy BBQ sauce, creating an easy and tasty meal option for any day of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it before cooking for even results. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use a quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
What if I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No problem! You can substitute peach preserves with peach nectar or even apricot preserves if that’s what you have. Both options will add a nice fruity flavor to the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and sauce the night before and store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, just assemble everything in the slow cooker and set it to cook!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
