This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors. Juicy chicken falls apart with a delicious peach barbecue sauce that makes every bite a treat!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I pop it in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner. Pair it with rice or a side salad for a yummy, stress-free evening! 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here. They cook evenly in the slow cooker. If you’re in a rush, you could use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture.
Peach Preserves: For the sweet element, peach preserves create a lovely sauce. If you can’t find them, you can use peach nectar or even apricot jam as a substitute for a similar sweetness.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce is a must! If you’re looking for a healthier option, go for a low-sugar version or make your own using ketchup and apple cider vinegar.
Soy Sauce: It adds depth to the flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try using coconut aminos or simply leave it out if you’re not a fan.
Onions: Sliced onions add a nice crunch and flavor. If you prefer not to use them, you can skip them or try green onions as a milder alternative.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding the chicken is a key part of this recipe. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cook the chicken until it’s tender—this is usually around 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
- Once done, use two forks to gently pull the chicken apart. Keep it in the sauce for more flavor.
- For even easier shredding, if you have an electric mixer, you can use the paddle attachment to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker!
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously tender, perfectly shredded chicken ready to enjoy! Happy cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced onions (about 1 small onion) for layering in the slow cooker
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and then cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure each piece is coated nicely with the seasonings; this will enhance the chicken’s flavor.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker Base:
If you choose to use onions, place the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base for the chicken, adding depth to the dish.
3. Layering the Chicken:
Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the onions. It’s okay if the chicken overlaps a little. They will shrink as they cook, and the flavors will meld beautifully!
4. Mixing the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the peach preserves, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce until everything is well combined. This sweet and tangy sauce will be the star of the dish!
5. Adding Sauce to Chicken:
Pour the peach BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring that each piece is well coated. The sauce will seep into the chicken as it cooks.
6. Cooking the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be cooked through and super tender.
7. Shredding the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded chicken with the remaining sauce so every bite is full of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the peach BBQ chicken hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or your preferred side dish. Enjoy the delicious blend of sweet and tangy flavors!
This easy recipe will leave you with juicy, flavorful shredded chicken and a wonderful peach BBQ sauce, making for a perfect weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook on the high setting for at least 4-5 hours instead of low to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Always check the internal temperature to be at least 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before. Just keep the mixture in the refrigerator and cook it in the slow cooker the next day. It’s perfect for meal prepping!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Peach BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to label the container with the date!
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. For a fresh crunch, you could also serve it with a simple side salad or coleslaw!
