This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a winner for busy days! Juicy chicken cooks in a sweet and tangy peach barbecue sauce, making every bite delicious and fun.
You’ll love how simple it is to throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I enjoy serving it with rice or on buns for a tasty meal that everyone will ask for again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, you can use chicken thighs instead, as they add richer flavor and tenderness.
Peach Preserves: Peach preserves or jam are essential for that sweet flavor. If you’re out, you can also use apricot preserves or even mango chutney for a twist on the taste!
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to pick your favorite barbecue sauce. I enjoy a tangy variety, but you could use a sweet style if that’s what you and your family like. Homemade sauce works well too!
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic really enhance the flavor! If you’re in a hurry, onion and garlic powder can be a quick alternative – just use about 1 teaspoon of each.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Tender Shredded Chicken?
To get that tender, easily shredded chicken, cooking time is key. The slow cooker allows the meat to break down beautifully. Here are some tips:
- Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours for juicy results or on high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking; this keeps the heat in.
- When shredding, use two forks and work gently to maintain moisture.
Remember, the chicken is ready when it pulls apart easily and doesn’t resist your forks! Enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors coming together for a family-friendly dish.
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you’ll let the slow cooker work its magic for 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. So, plan on about 7 to 8 hours total if you cook it on low. A perfect meal for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will keep them juicy while they cook.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the peach preserves, barbecue sauce, sliced onion, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and if you like it a little spicy, add the red pepper flakes. Stir until it’s well combined.
3. Pour It Over the Chicken:
Take your delicious sauce mixture and pour it evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure to cover the chicken with the sauce.
4. Cook It:
Now, cover your slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. It’s done when the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is fully cooked, carefully shred it right in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce to coat it evenly.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Give it a taste and add a little salt if you think it needs it. This will bring all the flavors out!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your peach BBQ chicken! Serve it hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or on buns for delicious sandwiches. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful peach BBQ chicken that’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to cook on high for 4 to 5 hours instead of low, as the cooking time will increase slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No problem! If you’re out of peach preserves, you can substitute with apricot preserves or even mango chutney for a different but equally tasty flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. On cooking day, just add it to the chicken in the slow cooker and let it cook as directed. Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What Should I Serve with Peach BBQ Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or even as a filling for sandwiches or sliders. You can also serve it with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch!
