Crock Pot Chicken Apricot Delight Recipe

Are you looking for a flavorful, yet effortless meal to spice up your weeknight dinners? Look no further than this Crock Pot Chicken Apricot Delight recipe. Known for its succulent chicken and delightful sweetness from apricots, this dish promises to be both comforting and gourmet in taste.

What You’ll Need

Before you dive into the art of slow cooking, ensure you have the following ingredients:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - fresh or thawed if using frozen
• 1 cup dried apricots - halved for easy cooking
• 1 medium onion - finely chopped to meld with the apricot flavor
• 3 cloves garlic - minced to enrich the flavor base
• 2 tablespoons olive oil - for sautéing the base ingredients
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves - to create a deliciously sweet glaze
• 1/2 cup chicken broth - for moisture and flavor
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce - for a touch of savory
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - to bring a zesty contrast to the sweetness
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger - or fresh, if available, for a warm kick
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes - for a hint of heat
• Salt and pepper - to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch - to thicken the sauce, mixed with water
• Cooked rice or couscous - to serve as a base for the chicken

Preparing the Ingredients

To ensure your Chicken Apricot Delight turns out perfectly, follow these preparatory steps:

1. Chicken Preparation: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. If your pieces are thick, consider slicing them horizontally to ensure even cooking.
2. Apricots: Slice the dried apricots in half to allow them to cook evenly.
3. Onions and Garlic: Finely chop the onions and mince the garlic for a uniform flavor throughout the dish.

✨ Note: Remember that the size of your apricot pieces can affect the cooking time; smaller pieces will blend more seamlessly into the sauce.

Cooking Steps

Here’s how to turn your ingredients into a mouthwatering meal:

1. Heat Up: Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Chicken: Brown the chicken breasts on both sides lightly. This step isn't necessary for cooking, but it adds depth to the flavor.
3. Layer: Place the apricots at the bottom of your crock pot, then layer the chicken breasts on top.
4. Mix: In a bowl, combine the apricot preserves, chicken broth, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and apricots.
5. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Thicken: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir into the pot to thicken the sauce.
7. Serve: Serve your Chicken Apricot Delight over a bed of rice or couscous, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

⚡ Note: If your sauce seems too thin, remove some of the sauce, thicken it in a saucepan, and then pour it back over the chicken before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like carrots, peppers, and chickpeas.
• Add-ins: Incorporate other dried fruits like prunes or raisins to deepen the flavor profile.
• Grains: Serve with quinoa or mashed potatoes instead of rice for a different texture.
• Greens: Add spinach or kale into the pot about 15 minutes before the end of cooking for a healthy boost.

The Crock Pot Chicken Apricot Delight recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of flavors in a hassle-free manner. Its tender chicken, complemented by the sweetness of apricots and the umami from soy sauce, provides a satisfying dish that can impress both family and guests. With simple preparation and a one-pot cooking method, you'll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried apricots?

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Fresh apricots can certainly be used, but they will release more moisture into the dish. Reduce the chicken broth or adjust cooking time to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

How can I make this dish less sweet?

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Reduce the amount of apricot preserves or add ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or mustard to balance the sweetness.

Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

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Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and onions, then cook on high pressure for about 12-15 minutes with a natural pressure release. Thicken the sauce with cornstarch after pressure cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months.