Healthy Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with a Zesty Twist

Savor Healthy Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with a Zesty Twist, a sweet-tangy dish with tender chicken and vibrant apricots. This easy, wholesome meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering bold flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with a Zesty Twist is a delightful, family-friendly dish that transforms simple ingredients into a sweet, tangy, and zesty masterpiece. The slow cooker makes it effortless, infusing juicy chicken with apricot sweetness and a citrusy kick, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This budget-friendly recipe is packed with protein and customizable to suit dietary needs, offering a wholesome, flavorful meal without the fuss. Its vibrant sauce pairs beautifully with rice or veggies, making it a versatile, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels indulgent yet nourishing, leaving everyone eager for seconds.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use Low Heat: Cook on low for tender, juicy chicken that absorbs flavors fully.
• Thicken Sauce: Simmer sauce on high after cooking or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker glaze.
• Layer Chicken Evenly: Arrange chicken in a single layer for uniform cooking and flavor infusion.
• Check Apricots: Use unsweetened dried apricots or preserves to control sweetness and enhance tanginess.
• Zest Carefully: Zest only the outer orange peel to avoid bitter pith in the dish.
• Use a Liner: Place a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Yield: 6 Servings

Healthy Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken with a Zesty Twist

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Healthy Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken, a sweet-tangy, zesty dish, perfect for easy, wholesome dinners.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup low-sugar apricot preserves
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional garnish: fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Season Chicken: Sprinkle chicken thighs with salt and pepper for a flavorful foundation.
2. Grease Crockpot: Lightly oil a 6-quart slow cooker or use a liner for easy cleanup.
3. Layer Chicken and Onion: Place chicken thighs and sliced onion in the slow cooker evenly.
4. Mix Sauce: In a bowl, combine apricot preserves, orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
5. Pour Sauce Over: Drizzle the sauce mixture over chicken and onions; toss gently to coat.
6. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until chicken is tender.
7. Check Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally and is fork-tender.
8. Thicken Sauce (Optional): Transfer sauce to a saucepan; simmer with a cornstarch slurry for a thicker glaze.
9. Shred or Serve Whole: Shred chicken if desired or keep thighs whole for serving.
10. Serve with Flair: Plate chicken with sauce, garnish with cilantro, and enjoy this zesty, tangy dish!

Notes

• Use low-sugar preserves to keep the dish healthy and balanced in sweetness.
• Thicken sauce if you prefer a stickier glaze; serve as-is for a lighter dish.
• Leftovers are great in wraps, salads, or over rice for quick meals.
• Pair with steamed veggies, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete dinner.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 345Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 138mgSodium 568mgCarbohydrates 30gFiber 0gSugar 28gProtein 28g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful; breasts are a leaner alternative.
• Apricot Preserves: Low-sugar preserves add sweet-tangy depth; dried apricots provide a chewier texture.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice boosts zestiness; bottled juice works in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce adds umami; tamari is a gluten-free substitute.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides bold aroma; garlic powder is a quick alternative.
• Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a zesty, spicy kick; ground ginger can substitute.
• Onion: Yellow onion offers a savory base; red onion adds a milder flavor.
• Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil enhances flavor; avocado oil suits high-heat cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use chicken breasts, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian version; adjust cook time.
• Fruit Variations: Swap apricot preserves for peach or mango preserves for a different sweetness.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure preserves are gluten-free.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a fiery kick to the sauce.
• Low-Sugar: Use unsweetened dried apricots or sugar-free preserves for a lighter dish.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Include bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition.
• Vegan Option: Use tofu or jackfruit with plant-based ingredients for a vegan dish.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain texture.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to keep moist.
• Meal Prep: Portion chicken and sauce into containers for easy dinners or lunches.

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