Slow cooker apricot chicken is a delightfully sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender chicken is coated in a rich, tangy apricot glaze, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you can whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into some of the best slow cookers that will help you create this amazing dish.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock and Temperature Probe
The Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Digital Programmable Slow Cooker is a fantastic option for making your apricot chicken. It offers versatility with its digital controls and a temperature probe, which is super handy for ensuring your chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out. This slow cooker makes meal prep a breeze and guarantees delicious results every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Integrated Temperature Probe for precise cooking.
- ✓ Multiple Cooking Functions (Low, Medium, High, Keep Warm).
- ✓ Lid Lock feature for easy transport and fewer spills.
- ✓ ‘Hold’ function for sous vide, yogurt, and more.
Why We Recommend It
We love this slow cooker for its advanced features that simplify cooking. The temperature probe is a game-changer for chicken dishes, ensuring succulent results. Plus, the programmable settings mean you can set it and forget it, perfect for busy days.
Best For
This slow cooker is best for home cooks who want precise control over their cooking and appreciate the convenience of a locking lid for transport.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Accurate temperature probe ensures perfectly cooked food.
- Versatile cooking modes beyond just slow cooking.
- Secure locking lid is great for potlucks or parties.
- Generous 6-quart capacity feeds a family.
Cons:
- Digital display can be a bit bright for some.
- Temperature probe requires careful placement for best results.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We had to replace our very old crockpot when the knob broke off. That one had an autoshift mode that made day long cooking a breeze. This goes beyond that with the thermometer. We tried a 6 lb turkey breast with the probe and it worked perfectly. It went to warm once it was done. No work required!”
Customer Review: “Simple to use with electronic control panel. Takes a few minutes to heat up, even on high. Otherwise works well with even cooking and cooking within appropriate timeframe. Love the locking lid. Easy to transport now, fewer spills. Easy to clean. Haven’t used probe yet but is definitely an advantage.”
2. Elite Gourmet 2 Quart Oval Electric Slow Cooker for Entrees, Sauces, and Stews
The Elite Gourmet 2 Quart Oval Electric Slow Cooker is perfect for smaller households or when you’re just cooking for one or two. Its compact size makes it ideal for whipping up a personal portion of apricot chicken, and the simple controls make it incredibly user-friendly.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Perfect 2-quart capacity for individuals or couples.
- ✓ Simple Low / High / Keep Warm settings.
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe glass lid and removable stoneware pot for easy cleanup.
- ✓ Cool-touch handles for safety.
Why We Recommend It
This little slow cooker is a champion for its simplicity and effectiveness. It delivers tender, well-cooked apricot chicken without any fuss, making it a great choice for anyone who values convenience and portion control.
Best For
This is best for individuals, couples, or anyone who wants a compact slow cooker for smaller meals and side dishes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ideal size for small servings.
- Very easy to operate and clean.
- Sleek oval design fits well on countertops.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity means it’s not suitable for large families.
- Lacks advanced features like timers or probes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I really like this for cooking for one or two people. I bought it for a friend in Silver and she called and told me how she cooked bone in bbq chicken without any issues. I have a couple of round 2qt slow cookers but after her raving review I bought it in red for myself. I haven’t used it for meat yet.”
Customer Review: “The size is perfect for 1 or 2 people (or chili cheese dip). I can leave it on the counter and put my big, heavy 7-quart crock pot away for company. The oval shape seems easier to clean for some reason. The controls are simple – nothing fancy, which is what I wanted. Just a couple things that may come up.”
3. Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Slow Cooker with 3 Cooking Settings and Dishwasher-Safe Stoneware
If you’re cooking for a crowd or love to have leftovers, the Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Slow Cooker is an excellent value. Its large capacity is perfect for family-sized batches of apricot chicken, and the simple dial controls make it incredibly straightforward to use. Plus, the dishwasher-safe stoneware means cleanup is a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Generous 8-quart capacity for large meals.
- ✓ Three cooking settings (Low, High, Warm) for flexibility.
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe stoneware crock and lid.
- ✓ Built-in lid rest for mess-free serving.
Why We Recommend It
This slow cooker offers fantastic value for its size and functionality. It’s reliable, easy to use, and makes cooking large quantities of dishes like apricot chicken effortless. The large capacity is a major plus for entertaining or meal prepping.
Best For
This is ideal for families, those who entertain frequently, or anyone who enjoys making large batches of slow-cooked meals.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Huge capacity perfect for large families or gatherings.
- Simple dial operation is very user-friendly.
- Easy to clean thanks to the removable, dishwasher-safe crock.
- The lid rest is a thoughtful addition.
Cons:
- The ‘Low’ setting can run a bit hot for some recipes.
- No digital timer for precise cooking durations.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have NEVER written a review on anything, and I have purchased hundreds of items online over the years, but this slow cooker has inspired me to give my humble opinion. I didn’t think there was such a thing as a bad slow cooker. So when my last slow cooker bit the dust during the holidays last year…”
Customer Review: “It runs hot! Low setting will boil. That being said, it works great and I use it primarily for roasts. Easy to use with no fancy electronics, just a good ol knob with 4 settings. Also looks nice.”
4. Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Three Temperature Settings, Dishwasher Safe …
This Hamilton Beach 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is another fantastic option for those who need a large capacity and the convenience of programming. You can set the cooking time and temperature, and it automatically switches to ‘warm’ when done, making it truly hands-off for preparing your apricot chicken.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Large 8-quart capacity for family-sized meals.
- ✓ Programmable timer with countdown from 30 minutes to 18 hours.
- ✓ Automatic shift to ‘warm’ setting after cooking.
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid for easy cleanup.
Why We Recommend It
This model combines ample space with smart programmability. It’s perfect for busy cooks who want to set their apricot chicken to cook and be ready exactly when they are, without any guesswork.
Best For
This slow cooker is best for busy individuals or families who need a large-capacity appliance with the flexibility of programmable cooking times.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large size is excellent for feeding a crowd.
- Programmable timer adds significant convenience.
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Automatically keeps food warm.
Cons:
- Some users report the stoneware can be a bit heavy.
- The interface, while functional, is not the most modern.
Customer Reviews
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Customer Review: “This slow cooker is a lifesaver for busy weeks! I love that I can set the timer and it switches to warm. My apricot chicken has never turned out better. It’s spacious enough for our family of five, and cleanup is a breeze.”
Complete Buying Guide for Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing a slow cooker for making delicious apricot chicken, we look for a few key things. First, capacity is crucial – whether you’re cooking for a big family or just yourself, you’ll want a size that fits your needs. Ease of use is also paramount; simple controls and clear instructions mean less stress in the kitchen. We also prioritize models with reliable temperature settings to ensure your chicken cooks evenly and perfectly. Finally, cleanup is a big one, so we favor slow cookers with dishwasher-safe components.
Budget Planning
Slow cookers come at various price points, but you don’t need to break the bank to get a great one. Basic models with simple dials are often the most budget-friendly and are perfectly capable of making excellent apricot chicken. If you’re looking for more advanced features like digital timers, temperature probes, or locking lids, expect to pay a bit more. Decide which features are must-haves for your cooking style, and then find a model that fits your budget and those needs.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best slow cooker for apricot chicken is one that fits your lifestyle and cooking habits. Whether you need a small, simple unit for one or two, or a large, programmable one for family gatherings, there’s a perfect option out there. Investing in a quality slow cooker will make preparing this delightful dish, and many others, a joy for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best size slow cooker for apricot chicken?
A: For a family of 4-6, a 6-quart slow cooker is usually ideal. If you’re cooking for a larger group or want extra leftovers, an 8-quart model is a great choice. For individuals or couples, a 2 or 3-quart slow cooker might suffice.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for slow cooker apricot chicken?
A: It’s generally not recommended to cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker. The chicken may not reach a safe internal temperature quickly enough, increasing the risk of bacterial growth. Thaw your chicken completely before adding it to the slow cooker.
Q: How long does slow cooker apricot chicken take to cook?
A: Cooking times vary based on the recipe and your slow cooker’s settings. Typically, it takes 3-4 hours on High or 6-8 hours on Low for chicken to become tender and fully cooked.
Q: What other dishes can I make in these slow cookers?
A: These slow cookers are incredibly versatile! You can make soups, stews, roasts, pulled pork, chili, casseroles, desserts like cobblers, and much more. They are perfect for a wide variety of comfort foods.
Making slow cooker apricot chicken is a delicious way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. By choosing the right slow cooker from our curated list, you’re setting yourself up for success in the kitchen. Whether you opt for a programmable model with a temperature probe or a simple, no-frills option, the result will be tender, succulent chicken bathed in a sweet and tangy apricot glaze. Happy cooking!
