Easy Crockpot Jezebel Chicken Thighs Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet with a little oil for 1–2 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker. While the recipe is delicious without this step, searing adds a layer of Maillard reaction that complements the sweetness of the fruit preserves.

If you do this, ensure you wipe the skillet clean before proceeding and handle the raw chicken with strict hygiene practices to avoid cross-contamination in your kitchen workspace.

If you find that the sauce is too sweet for your palate, you can balance it by adding a teaspoon of cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The acidity will cut through the sugar and help brighten the overall flavor of the glaze.

Additionally, serving this chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa helps to soak up the delicious sauce, making for a more balanced and satisfying meal that utilizes every drop of the flavorful glaze.

Variations

• Spicy Jezebel Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze mixture for an extra layer of heat that complements the horseradish.
• Citrus Infused: Stir in 1 teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest to the sauce mixture to add a bright, aromatic citrus note that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over low heat until hot throughout.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, ensure the chicken is cooled to room temperature within 2 hours before placing it in the fridge. When reheating, it is best to do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a tiny splash of water if the sauce has become too thick or sticky during the refrigeration process.

This dish is perfect for making ahead as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool completely, and then store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it when you are ready to serve.

This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or for meal prepping your lunches for the upcoming work week, ensuring you always have a flavorful and satisfying meal ready to go without any last-minute stress.

Serving ideas

Serve the Jezebel chicken thighs hot, spooning plenty of the thickened pineapple-mustard sauce over each portion. It pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed white rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the glaze. The sauce is the star of the show, so do not be shy about drizzling extra over your side dishes to ensure every bite is packed with that signature sweet and spicy flavor profile.

For a more casual presentation, you can shred the cooked chicken thighs directly into the sauce and serve them as a hearty topping for baked potatoes or even in soft flour tortillas. The versatility of the glaze means it works well in various formats.

Regardless of how you choose to serve it, ensure the chicken is piping hot and the sauce is glossy and inviting, which will make for a professional and appetizing presentation for your family or guests.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot Jezebel Chicken Thighs

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 6 pieces boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp dry mustard
• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 cup pineapple preserves
• 1 cup apple jelly
• 2 tbsp prepared horseradish

Instructions

1. Arrange the boneless skinless chicken thighs in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker insert to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Evenly sprinkle the dry mustard and cracked black pepper over the chicken thighs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pineapple preserves, apple jelly, and prepared horseradish, then spoon the mixture over the seasoned chicken.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving with the thickened sauce.

Contains: mustard

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

9 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

38 g

Sodium

350 mg

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