Crockpot Apricot Dijon Chicken Breasts Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet for two minutes per side before placing them into the slow cooker. This step is optional but adds a layer of complexity to the final dish.

If the sauce appears too thin when the cooking is finished, you can carefully remove the chicken and simmer the sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency, then pour it back over the meat before serving.

Consider serving this chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the extra apricot Dijon sauce. If you prefer a lighter side, a simple steamed green vegetable like broccoli or asparagus provides a nice contrast to the richness of the glaze.

The sweetness of the apricot pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables as well. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of black pepper if desired, but keep in mind the tanginess of the mustard is the primary flavor profile.

Variations

• Spicy Apricot Chicken: Add one tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the apricot and Dijon mixture for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
• Garlic Herb Version: Incorporate three cloves of minced fresh garlic and a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley into the sauce mixture to add a pungent, aromatic layer to the final dish.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a microwave or saucepan until steaming hot throughout.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture. The sauce will continue to flavor the chicken as it sits, making it a great option for future meals. Ensure the chicken is cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than two hours.

Place the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, ensure it is heated thoroughly until the center is piping hot and steaming.

You can prepare the sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The chicken can be placed in the slow cooker with the onions and thyme, and the sauce can be poured over just before you turn the machine on. This makes it an ideal meal for busy mornings; simply assemble everything in the pot, set the timer, and let it cook throughout the day so that a hot, flavorful dinner is waiting for you when you return home.

Serving ideas

Plate the chicken breasts individually, spooning a generous amount of the thickened apricot Dijon sauce over the top. The sauce is the highlight of the dish, so ensure each serving gets plenty of it.

Garnish with a fresh sprig of thyme if available to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma that complements the dried thyme used during cooking. This presentation makes the meal feel complete and intentional, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a simple gathering.

Pair the chicken with a side that complements the sweet and tangy notes of the glaze. Steamed jasmine rice or roasted baby potatoes are excellent choices for absorbing the sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can also cut through the richness of the dish. Serve immediately while the chicken is still hot and the sauce is at its most pourable consistency. The combination of the tender meat and the flavorful glaze is sure to satisfy everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Apricot Dijon Chicken Breasts

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of the slow cooker. Scatter the diced onion evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle the dried thyme over the top.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot preserves and Dijon mustard until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken, onion, and thyme, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute.

Contains: mustard

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

28 g

Fat

6.5 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

22 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.