This Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken is a juicy delight! With sweet peaches and tangy barbecue sauce, it’s a perfect mix of flavors that everyone will love.
I enjoy tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do all the magic. You can serve it with rice or on a bun, and trust me, it’s a hit every time! 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts work well, but thighs can add more moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using chicken tenders, which cook quickly and stay juicy.
Peach Preserves: Fresh or frozen peaches can be cooked down and mashed as a substitute. Don’t have preserves? Try apricot or mango chutney for a twist. It’s all about that sweetness!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand, or make your own for a personalized touch! Honey BBQ sauce adds a nice twist, or try a spicy version if you like more heat.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as a substitute to balance the sweetness.
How Do I Get My Chicken Tender and Juicy?
For tender, juicy chicken, the slow cooker is your friend! Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker; the chicken should be in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use low heat for longer cooking to melt the collagen in the chicken, making it super tender.
- Shred the chicken after cooking in the sauce to soak up all that flavorful goodness!
Following these steps will ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup peach preserves or peach jam
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra smoky flavor)
For Serving:
- Butter and mashed potatoes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping this dish. Then, let the slow cooker do its magic for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the peach preserves, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and the optional smoked paprika. Stir everything until it’s mixed well and smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the peach BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated. This sauce is where the magic happens!
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s super tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred and Mix:
Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with all that delicious sauce for extra flavor.
6. Serve It Up:
Serve the peach BBQ chicken hot! It pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or you can put it on buns for amazing sandwiches. Don’t forget to add a pat of butter on the mashed potatoes for that extra richness!
Enjoy this sweet, tangy, and comforting slow cooker meal that’s both simple and delicious!
FAQ – Easy Slow Cooker Peach BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s fully cooked before shredding. It’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight, but if you’re in a hurry, you can add an extra hour of cooking time to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No worries! You can substitute peach preserves with apricot or mango jam for a similar sweetness. If you have fresh or frozen peaches, cook them down and mash them for a homemade version of the sauce!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, mix in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the sauce, or use a spicy barbecue sauce. Adjust it according to your taste preference for the perfect kick!
