This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is all about juicy chicken cooked in a dreamy peach BBQ sauce. It’s sweet, tangy, and downright delicious!
I love how it practically cooks itself! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, relax, and let the magic happen. Perfect for a busy day or a tasty weekend treat! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness. However, chicken breasts work well too. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey breast can also be used.
Peach Preserves: This is the star ingredient! Make sure to pick a good quality brand. If peaches are out of season, try using apricot jam as a substitute. It provides a similar sweet-tart taste.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce will do just fine! If you’re feeling adventurous, try homemade sauce for a personal touch. Substitute with a mustard-based or vinegar-based sauce for a different flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. You could swap it with rice vinegar or even lemon juice if necessary, but keep it in moderation since they can be more acidic.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Shredded Chicken?
Shredding the chicken can make a big difference in the dish’s texture! Follow these steps for perfectly shredded chicken.
- After cooking, use two forks to pull apart the chicken. Start at the thicker parts to make it easier.
- If you find it tough, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture.
- Once shredded, return it to the slow cooker to ensure it is fully coated in that tasty peach BBQ sauce.
This technique will keep the chicken juicy and allow it to soak up all the flavors beautifully!
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 medium onion, sliced
- Butter (for serving with mashed potatoes or veggies)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, let the slow cooker do its work for about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day where you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. If you’re using the optional sliced onions, add them under the chicken for extra flavor.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the peach preserves, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the peach BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces of chicken are well-coated with the sauce.
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let it cook. Set the timer for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
5. Shred the Chicken:
When the chicken is ready, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Mix Back in the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and stir it well so the chicken pieces are coated in the delicious peach BBQ sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Peach BBQ Chicken warm, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. For a special touch, add a pat of butter on the side to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure the chicken is completely thawed before placing it in the slow cooker for even cooking. To thaw quickly, submerge the frozen chicken in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of peach preserves to 3/4 cup. For a tangier flavor, you can also add a little more apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just pour it into the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook—it’ll save you time on busy days!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep the chicken moist.
