The tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked chicken wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a sweet and tangy sauce, with the vibrant hues of apricots and cranberries dancing before your eyes. sweet and creamy raspberry mousse This Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that will have you reminiscing about family gatherings and cozy dinners.
As the flavors meld together in the warmth of your crockpot, you know you’re in for a treat. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends at a dinner party, this recipe guarantees a delightful explosion of taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds. light and healthy hummus toast
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy cooks
- With its sweet-tart flavor profile, it’s sure to please any palate
- The visually appealing colors make it a showstopper at any gathering
- Ideal for serving over rice or with crusty bread, it’s versatile enough for any meal occasion
I remember the first time I made this Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! quick and easy pizza alternatives.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
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Cranberry Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; either brings a beautiful tartness to the dish.
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Dried Apricots: Choose soft apricots for easier cooking; their sweetness complements the tart cranberry sauce beautifully.
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Onion: One medium onion gives depth and sweetness; slice it thinly for even cooking.
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Garlic Cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
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Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper provides a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle keeps the chicken moist during cooking and enhances flavor.
For the Sauce:
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Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness helps harmonize all the flavors in this dish.
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Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: Use these herbs to add an aromatic touch that brightens up the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop onion and mince garlic, then cut dried apricots into bite-sized pieces.
Sear That Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side—to lock in flavor.
Add Everything to Your Crockpot: Place seared chicken at the bottom of your crockpot. Layer sliced onions and minced garlic over it before adding cranberry sauce and chopped apricots.
Create Your Flavorful Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), thyme, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.
Set It and Forget It: Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and easily pulls apart with forks.
Serve It Up: Once cooked, shred chicken right in the crockpot using two forks. Stir everything together gently; serve over rice or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken recipe, get ready for some serious compliments! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in with family, this dish will surely be a hit! For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights
- The sweet and tangy flavors blend beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and impressive
- Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by searing the chicken for better flavor, then add the sauce ingredients into the crockpot. This ensures a rich taste that permeates every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for dried cherries or add chopped nuts for crunch. Personalizing this dish can create new favorites.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with the sauce ingredients
- Always use bone-in chicken thighs for juiciness
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less apricot preserves based on your taste preference
Cooking this dish brings back fond memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting for seconds.

FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in my Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken?
Yes, but ensure it cooks longer since frozen meat requires extra time.
What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken?
savory potato gratin side dish.
Serve with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Mix a cornstarch slurry and stir it into the sauce while cooking for added thickness.

Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crockpot Cranberry Apricot Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet-tart sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, this recipe will become a favorite in your home. Simply sear the chicken, combine ingredients, and let your crockpot do the work. Serve it over rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Layer seared chicken in the bottom of your crockpot. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, cranberry sauce, and chopped apricots.
- In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), thyme, and black pepper. Pour evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken in the crockpot with two forks and stir to combine before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg



