5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Spring Blossom Chicken (Easy Weeknight Dinner)

When life gets busy but you still want something comforting and homemade, this 5-ingredient slow cooker spring blossom chicken is the answer. It’s the kind of effortless recipe you can throw together in minutes—no chopping, no fuss—just simple pantry staples transforming into a sweet, tangy, flavorful meal.

With tender chicken, a glossy apricot glaze, and pops of bright green peas, this dish feels fresh, cozy, and satisfying all at once. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 5 ingredients – Simple and budget-friendly
Dump-and-go – Perfect for busy days
Sweet & savory flavor – A delicious balance of apricot and tangy dressing
Versatile serving options – Great over rice, noodles, or potatoes
Meal-prep friendly – Stores and reheats beautifully

Ingredients

2 pounds frozen chicken tenderloins
1 cup apricot preserves (or apricot jam)
3/4 cup zesty Italian dressing
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 cup frozen green peas

How to Make Spring Blossom Chicken

1. Add Chicken

Place frozen chicken tenderloins in an even layer in your slow cooker.

2. Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, Italian dressing, and soy sauce until smooth.

3. Combine

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.

4. Cook

LOW: 4–5 hours
HIGH: 2–3 hours
Cook until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

5. Shred & Add Peas

Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, stir into the sauce, then add frozen peas. Let sit 5–10 minutes until heated through.

6. Serve

Spoon over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes and enjoy every bit of that glossy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Fluffy white rice
Buttered egg noodles
Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed green beans
Simple side salad
Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread

Variations & Tips

Make it lighter: Use light Italian dressing and reduced-sugar preserves
Swap the fruit: Try peach preserves or orange marmalade
Add more veggies: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables with the peas
Thicken the sauce:
Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, stir in, and cook on HIGH until thickened
Use chicken breasts: Add about 1 extra hour on LOW
Add heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes

Storage & Meal Prep

Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days
Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water
Meal prep idea: Serve with rice and extra veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches

Pro Tip

For an easy twist, shred the chicken extra fine and serve it on toasted buns for a quick and delicious sandwich night.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker spring blossom chicken proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s cozy, flavorful, and incredibly easy—exactly what weeknight dinners should be.