Table of contents
- Key Takeaways
- What Makes Jezebel Chicken Special?
- Why Use Frozen Chicken in a Crockpot?
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Guide to Making Jezebel Chicken in a Crockpot
- Tips for Perfect Jezebel Chicken in the Crockpot
- What to Serve with Jezebel Chicken Crockpot Recipe
- Leftovers Done Right
- Using Fresh Chicken, Fixing Thin Sauce, and Freezing Leftovers
- FAQs About Jezebel Chicken Crockpot Recipe
- Conclusion
If you’ve been looking for a flavorful dinner that’s both simple and satisfying, this Jezebel chicken crockpot recipe is perfect. Packed with sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, this dish brings Southern charm to your table with minimal effort. And yes, it’s one of those recipes where you can use frozen chicken straight from the freezer!
Using a slow cooker for this Jezebel chicken crockpot recipe makes it a hands-off solution for busy nights. While the chicken cooks low and slow, it absorbs the bold flavors of the Jezebel sauce—a classic Southern mix of pineapple preserves, apple jelly, mustard, and horseradish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver.
The best part? This Jezebel chicken crockpot recipe is versatile. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even use it as a filling for wraps. However you choose to enjoy it, the flavors will leave everyone asking for more.
Key Takeaways
- Crockpots Simplify Dinner: Using frozen chicken slow cooker recipes, like this one, allows you to skip the thawing process while still delivering tender, flavorful chicken.
- Southern Flavor in Every Bite: Jezebel sauce combines pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, and mustard for a tangy-sweet explosion of flavor.
- Customizable Ingredients: Use chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks—frozen or fresh. Adjust the spice level to match your family’s preferences.
- Meal Prep Magic: This recipe is perfect for leftovers that can be turned into tacos, wraps, or salads.
- Easy and Foolproof: Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a quiet night at home, this recipe guarantees success.
What Makes Jezebel Chicken Special?
Jezebel sauce has been a Southern favorite for generations, and it’s no wonder why. Made with pantry staples like pineapple preserves, apple jelly, and mustard, it’s the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. Traditionally, this sauce is used as a dip for crackers and cream cheese, but it truly shines when used as a glaze for meats.
Pairing this sauce with chicken is a match made in heaven. The sauce caramelizes slightly as the chicken cooks, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that’s impossible to resist. And since this recipe uses a crockpot, all you need to do is toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic.
Why Use Frozen Chicken in a Crockpot?
We’ve all had those days when dinner sneaks up on us and the chicken is still in the freezer. That’s where this recipe saves the day. Using frozen chicken crock pot recipes is not only convenient but also ensures tender, juicy results every time.
The low and steady heat of a crockpot thaws and cooks the chicken evenly, allowing the flavors of the Jezebel sauce to seep in as it cooks. Just make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F before serving.
Ingredients
To make this recipe, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup pineapple preserves
- 1 cup apple jelly
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Jezebel Chicken in a Crockpot
- Prepare the Jezebel Sauce
In a bowl, mix the pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until smooth and taste-test it. The sauce should be sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. Adjust the spice level to your liking. - Layer the Crockpot
Place the crock pot frozen chicken breast into the crockpot. Sprinkle the chicken with a little salt, then pour the Jezebel sauce over the top. Make sure each piece of chicken is fully coated with the sauce. - Set It and Forget It
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. During this time, the chicken will slowly thaw, cook, and absorb the flavors of the sauce. - Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once it’s cooked and whisk in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Let the sauce cook on high for 15-20 minutes until it thickens. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies, and spoon the extra sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips for Perfect Jezebel Chicken in the Crockpot
- Switch Up the Protein: This sauce isn’t just for chicken. Try it with pork chops or a pork tenderloin for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: For a complete one-pot meal, add carrots, potatoes, or green beans during the last 2 hours of cooking.
- Double the Sauce: If you’re serving a crowd or love extra sauce, double the Jezebel sauce recipe. It’s also great for dipping!
- Shred It Up: For a pulled chicken version, shred the chicken once it’s cooked and mix it with the sauce before serving.
What to Serve with Jezebel Chicken Crockpot Recipe
This dish is a show-stopper on its own, but the right sides can make it a complete meal. Here are some ideas:
- Rice: White or brown rice is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes provide a comforting base for the tangy chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a fresh and healthy touch.
- Dinner Rolls: Use them to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Leftovers Done Right
A good recipe doesn’t just shine the first time it keeps on giving. This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or quick meals during the week. Properly storing and repurposing leftovers ensures nothing goes to waste and every bite remains flavorful.
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the flavors and texture.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
Transform your leftovers into entirely new meals with these simple ideas:
- Shred the Chicken: Use the tender chicken as a filling for tacos, wraps, or sandwiches. Add fresh veggies, cheese, and your favorite sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Toss it into a Salad: Combine the leftovers with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing for a flavorful and nutritious lunch.
- Serve Over a Baked Potato: For a hearty dinner, load a baked potato with the leftovers. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chives for a comforting twist.
With these versatile options, leftovers become an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen while saving time and reducing waste. Enjoy the convenience of delicious meals that keep on giving!
Using Fresh Chicken, Fixing Thin Sauce, and Freezing Leftovers
This recipe works wonderfully with fresh chicken if that’s what you have on hand. Fresh chicken breasts or thighs cook faster than frozen ones, so reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking. If you find that the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can easily thicken it by creating a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, stir it into the sauce, and let it cook on high until it reaches your desired consistency. Leftovers are just as tasty and can be stored for later use. Place the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick, delicious meal.
FAQs About Jezebel Chicken Crockpot Recipe
Yes, absolutely! Slow cookers are designed to safely thaw and cook frozen chicken. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Cooking times for frozen chicken are approximately 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.
This recipe works well with chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken. Adjust the cooking time based on the cut and size.
You can substitute apricot or peach preserves in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more horseradish or cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.
Conclusion
This Jezebel chicken crockpot recipe combines convenience with bold flavors, making it a must-try for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something sweet, tangy, and a little spicy. Whether you’re using frozen chicken slow cooker recipes to save time or planning ahead with fresh chicken, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out your taste buds will thank you!