Slow Cooker Applesauce Pulled Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s effortless, healthy, and full of flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce that’s both comforting and versatile. The applesauce keeps the meat moist while adding a hint of fall-inspired sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory seasoning.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Unsweetened applesauce
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Apple cider vinegar
• Brown sugar or honey
• Dijon mustard
• Smoked paprika
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the slow cooker)

Directions

1. Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together applesauce, chopped onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and mix it into the sauce.
7. Serve warm on buns, over rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours
Total time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Stir in a bit of barbecue sauce at the end for a smoky-sweet twist.
• Replace applesauce with pear sauce for a different fruit flavor.
• Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness or breasts for a leaner option.
• Add chopped apples for extra texture and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought applesauce?

Yes, unsweetened store-bought applesauce works great. You can also use homemade applesauce for a fresher flavor.

Can I cook this on high heat?

Yes, cook on high for 3–4 hours if you’re short on time.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay moist, but breasts are a leaner option and work just as well.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely—try adding diced apples, onions, or even carrots for extra flavor and texture.

How do I serve this pulled chicken?

It’s great on sandwiches, sliders, tacos, or served over rice, mashed potatoes, or a bed of greens.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats beautifully and is great for meal prep or gatherings.

What can I use instead of applesauce?

You can substitute with pear puree, pumpkin puree, or a light barbecue sauce for a different flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially mustard and vinegar) are gluten-free.

Can I use a pressure cooker instead?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release for 5 minutes before shredding.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking—once the chicken easily shreds, switch the slow cooker to “keep warm” mode.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Applesauce Pulled Chicken is a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get tender, juicy chicken that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or hearty fall meals. It’s comfort food made simple—and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Slow Cooker Applesauce Pulled Chicken

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A tender, flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish infused with the natural sweetness of applesauce, savory spices, and tangy vinegar. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a hearty main dish for any meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing slow cooker)

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Instructions

1. Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, whisk together applesauce, onion, garlic, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken, coating it evenly.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
6. Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
7. Serve warm on buns, over rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

• Use unsweetened applesauce for the best balance of sweet and savory flavor.
• Add a splash of barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
• Try adding diced apples or carrots for extra texture.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Chicken thighs provide more moisture, while breasts are leaner.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 105mg