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Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken served in a bowl with sauce and herbs

Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

A sweet-tart cranberry chicken dish made effortlessly in the slow cooker, perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Trim visible fat for even cooking.
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce Whole-berry for texture, jellied for smoothness.
  • 1 packet onion soup mix Lipton-style for reliable flavor.
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce Use medium-sweet sauce; avoid spicy.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to your preference.
  • to taste Chopped parsley For garnish, optional.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Slice thick breasts horizontally for even cooking.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and barbecue sauce. Whisk until fully incorporated.
  • Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each breast is well coated.
  • Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cover the slow cooker and set to low (6-7 hours) or high (3-4 hours).
  • Cook until the chicken is tender and reaches 165°F. The sauce should thicken slightly.
  • Serve warm, spooning extra sauce over each portion, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for future use. Reheat gently to restore texture.
Keyword comfort food, Cranberry Chicken, easy dinner, Slow Cooker Chicken, weeknight meal