Why the Crockpot Chicken With BBQ and Applesauce Is Great Crockpot Recipe
One of the reasons I love the Crockpot Chicken with BBQ and Applesauce is that it’s incredibly simple yet delivers a deliciously unique flavor profile.
It’s the perfect recipe for busy days when I want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients into the Crockpot, and let it do the work while I focus on other tasks.
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a comforting dish that my family always enjoys. Plus, the aroma wafting through the house makes everyone enthusiastic for dinner.
It’s truly a winning recipe in my book!
Ingredients of Crockpot Chicken With BBQ and Applesauce
When it comes to whipping up a tasty meal with minimal effort, the ingredients for Crockpot Chicken with BBQ and Applesauce are both straightforward and delightful. You won’t need to scour the grocery store for a long list of exotic items. Instead, you’ll find yourself reaching for some familiar staples that you might already have in your pantry.
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this scrumptious dish:
- 2 large skinless chicken breasts (they can even be frozen)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 1/2 cups chunky applesauce
Now let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, the chicken breasts are the star of the show; they soak up all the delicious flavors from the BBQ sauce and applesauce.
If you happen to have some chicken thighs instead, those would work just as well, as they tend to stay moist and tender during cooking. As for the barbecue sauce, feel free to use your favorite brand or even make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
And the chunky applesauce? Well, that adds a lovely sweetness that balances out the tangy BBQ sauce beautifully. If you’re not a fan of chunky applesauce, go ahead and use smooth—just remember, it’s about what you and your family enjoy most.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken With BBQ and Applesauce
Making Crockpot Chicken with BBQ and Applesauce is like hosting a cozy dinner party where the guest of honor is convenience itself. To get started, grab those 2 large skinless chicken breasts. You can use fresh ones, or, like I often do, pluck them straight from the freezer. Who doesn’t love a good meal that comes together without the need for a last-minute grocery run?
Now, take your trusty 2-quart crockpot and give it a little spray with cooking oil to prevent any sticking—because no one wants to be scraping off burnt chicken later.
Place the chicken breasts right in the bottom of your greased crockpot. Now, here comes the fun part: pour 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken. Don’t be shy, let it drizzle down like a savory waterfall.
Then, take 1 1/2 cups of chunky applesauce and spread that goodness over the top. I love that sweet and tangy combination—it’s like a flavor hug for the chicken. Cover it all up with the lid and set your crockpot to low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re like me and occasionally forget dinner is cooking, don’t worry. You can leave it a bit longer without any major consequences.
As the hours tick by, your kitchen will begin to fill with the mouthwatering aroma of BBQ and applesauce mingling together. It’s a scent that might just make you drool a little (I know I do).
When it’s finally time to dig in, the chicken will be tender enough to shred with a fork. Serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or just on its own—whatever floats your culinary boat.
Crockpot Chicken With BBQ and Applesauce Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re following a low-carb diet but still want to enjoy the deliciousness of Crockpot Chicken with BBQ and Applesauce, there are plenty of easy substitutions and variations you can make.
Swap out the chunky applesauce for unsweetened apple puree or even a mix of diced apples and sugar-free syrup for sweetness without the carbs.
For the BBQ sauce, look for low-sugar or homemade options using sugar substitutes.
You can also add spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
These tweaks let you indulge while keeping your carb intake in check. Enjoy your healthy twist!
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken With BBQ and Applesauce
After exploring how to make Crockpot Chicken with BBQ and Applesauce suitable for low-carb diets, it’s time to think about what to pair with this flavorful dish.
I love serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a light and satisfying meal.
Steamed broccoli or green beans add a nice crunch and color, bringing balance to the sweetness of the chicken.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a simple side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette works wonders.
Don’t forget some crusty low-carb bread to soak up the delicious sauce—it’s always a hit!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying Crockpot Chicken with BBQ and Applesauce, I often seek ways to cut down calories without sacrificing flavor. One simple tip is to use a low-sugar barbecue sauce; it can save calories and still pack a punch.
Additionally, I love substituting half of the applesauce with unsweetened apple puree, which helps reduce sugar content. You can also consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts for added moisture without too many extra calories.
Finally, serving the dish with a side of steamed veggies instead of heavier sides like rice or bread keeps the meal light and satisfying. Enjoy!