Slow Cooker Apricot BBQ Pork Chops for Tender Results Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve a more caramelized finish, you can transfer the cooked pork chops to a baking sheet and broil them for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This step helps to intensify the flavors of the apricot BBQ glaze and provides a nice texture contrast. Be sure to watch them closely under the broiler, as the high sugar content in the sauce means it can burn very quickly if left unattended for even a few seconds.

If you find the sauce is too thin after the cooking time, you can remove the pork chops and set them aside. Whisk a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.

This will thicken the liquid into a rich, syrupy glaze that coats the back of a spoon, making for an even more luxurious presentation when drizzled over the pork.

Variations

• Spicy Apricot BBQ: Add a tablespoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before pouring it over the pork. This introduces a subtle heat that cuts through the sweetness of the preserves.
• Herbed Apricot Pork: Stir in a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary during the sauce preparation phase. These earthy herbs provide a fragrant aromatic layer that pairs beautifully with the tangy apricot and smoky BBQ sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

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

Reheat

Gently reheat in a microwave or a covered skillet over low heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the pork from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator. The sauce helps maintain the moisture of the meat, so ensure the pork is fully submerged or coated in the remaining liquid before sealing the container.

Properly stored, the pork will maintain its quality for up to three days. Always ensure the food has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for longer than two hours before refrigerating.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can assemble the raw ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate the entire unit overnight, then simply place it in the base and turn it on in the morning.

This saves significant time on busy days and ensures a delicious, hot meal is ready exactly when you need it without any last-minute stress.

Serving ideas

Serve these pork chops alongside a simple side dish that complements the sweet and tangy glaze. Mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette are all excellent choices that provide a neutral canvas for the rich, flavorful sauce.

The goal is to let the pork be the star of the plate, so keep the sides relatively simple to ensure they do not compete with the bold, fruity notes of the apricot BBQ glaze.

For a more complete meal, consider serving the pork with a side of steamed green beans or roasted carrots, which can be cooked in the same oven or on the stovetop while the pork rests. The sauce should be spooned generously over the meat right before serving to ensure it is warm and glossy. A light sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives, can add a pop of color and a fresh, bright finish to the plate.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Apricot BBQ Pork Chops for Tender Results

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

Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless pork chops
• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Place the boneless pork chops in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure the chops are not overlapping excessively to allow for even cooking throughout the braising process.
2. In a medium bowl or directly over the pork, whisk together the apricot preserves and the BBQ sauce until fully combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the pork chops, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. Once cooked, check that the internal temperature of the pork has reached 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving with the pooled sauce.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

28.5 g

Carbohydrates

42 g

Fat

9.5 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

38 g

Sodium

650 mg

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