Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Middle East? Our Slow Cooker Spicy Saffron Chicken with Apricots is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with vibrant flavors and tantalizing aromas. Imagine tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection, infused with the exotic essence of saffron and the sweet surprise of apricots. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish allows you to set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Don’t miss out on this delectable recipe that promises to impress your family and friends—read on to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup apricots, dried
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use.
- In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with a couple of tablespoons of warm water. Allow the saffron to steep for about 5 minutes to release its color and flavor.
- In the slow cooker, place the chicken thighs at the bottom. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Evenly distribute the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- Add the dried apricots on top of the onions and garlic. The apricots will add a sweet contrast to the spices and chicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cumin, paprika, and the saffron water. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the saffron mixture over the chicken and apricots in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is well coated with the spices.
- Finally, pour in the chicken broth, which will help to keep the chicken moist and create a flavorful sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. If necessary, you can cook it for an additional hour.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. You can use a slotted spoon to transfer the apricots and onions as well.
- Optionally, you can reduce the sauce in the slow cooker by turning it to high and cooking uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken it slightly.
- Serve the spicy saffron chicken with apricots warm, drizzled with the sauce from the slow cooker. This dish pairs well with rice or couscous to soak up the delicious flavors.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the onion and mince the garlic the night before. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Saffron Steeping: Be sure to steep the saffron threads in warm water for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial for maximizing the flavor and color in your dish.
- Layering Ingredients: When layering the ingredients in the slow cooker, place the chicken at the bottom to ensure it absorbs all the delicious juices from the broth and spices.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the saffron mixture.
- Check for Doneness: After 6 hours, check the chicken for tenderness. If it’s not easily shreddable, let it cook for an additional hour.
- Thicken the Sauce: For a richer sauce, turn the slow cooker to high for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to reduce and thicken the liquid.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this flavorful dish over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a fresh touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 338kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 22g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
