This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a winner for busy days! Juicy chicken cooked in a sweet and tangy peach BBQ sauce makes it super tasty and simple to make.
You just toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! I love coming home to a delicious meal. Pair it with rice or veggies, and dinner is ready!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is best for this recipe because they cook evenly and are easy to shred. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and moister meat.
Peach Preserves: This is the star of the dish! If you’re out, use apricot jam or any other fruit jam for a similar sweetness. You can make it from fresh peaches if you’re up for it, just cook them down with sugar.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand! If you want a healthier option, opt for a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce. Some like to mix in a bit of mustard or hot sauce for extra zing.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but adds a nice tang. You can substitute it with lemon juice or leave it out if preferred. My personal tip: a splash of pickle juice can also do wonders!
How Can I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! After cooking, follow these steps:
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart while it’s still in the slow cooker. This keeps it juicy!
- Alternatively, if you want a quicker method, you can place the chicken in a mixer bowl and use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed until shredded.
- Mix the shredded chicken back into the sauce to coat it well before serving.
This way, every bite is full of that tasty peach BBQ flavor!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced onions or bell peppers for layering in slow cooker
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and then you’ll let the slow cooker do the rest! Cook it on the low setting for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. By the end, you’ll have tender, tasty chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This is where all the magic will happen!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peach preserves or jam, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it). Then, add in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a little bit of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well until nicely combined.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the sweet and tangy peach BBQ sauce all over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure to cover them evenly. Smell that? It’s going to be delicious!
4. Add Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you’d like, layer some sliced onions or bell peppers around the chicken for extra flavor. This optional step enhances the taste and adds some nice textures!
5. Set to Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and easy to shred once done!
6. Shred the Chicken:
After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken right inside the slow cooker. Mix the shredded chicken well with the peach BBQ sauce for an even flavor throughout.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish up the peach BBQ chicken hot! It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite veggies. Enjoy every sweet and tangy bite!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your flavorful, sweet, and tangy peach BBQ chicken!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just place the frozen chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker, and increase the cooking time to approximately 8-9 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I Substitute the Peach Preserves?
Absolutely! If you’re out of peach preserves, feel free to use apricot jam or even homemade fruit preserves. The key is to maintain the sweet flavor that complements the BBQ sauce, so choose a fruit jam you enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve With This Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Try serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles work beautifully!
