Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken used to be one of those dishes I only made on special occasions because it felt fancy and a bit tricky. But I’ve cracked the code to make this delightful dish fit right into my busy weeknights. It’s all about simple steps and ingredients that do the heavy lifting for you. Trust me when I say, once you try this version, you’ll find it hard to resist making it on repeat. With the savory sweetness of fig jam and the creamy tang from goat cheese, dinner just got a whole lot easier and way more delicious.
Recipe Card – Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 900 g Chicken thighs bone-in or boneless, skinless preferred
- 160 g Fig jam
- 115 g Goat cheese crumbled
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 small Onion chopped
- 120 ml Chicken broth
- 5 g Fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp Olive oil for optional searing
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Spoon in the fig jam and pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle thyme over the top.
- Set the slow cooker to LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 74°C.
- Stir in goat cheese crumbles about 10–15 minutes before serving, folding it in gently to keep some texture.
- For extra crispiness, shred the cooked chicken and air-fry at 200°C for 4–6 minutes before serving.
Notes
Keep the Flavor Going: More Recipes You’ll Love.
Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe
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Spicy Maple Chicken and Coconut Rice recipe
Or go to my Pinterest.
Why This Recipe Is Great
Flavor Profile: Sweet, Tangy, Creamy
This Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken offers a delightful mix of flavors that feels both fancy and easygoing. The ripe fig jam brings natural sweetness and a touch of tang, perfectly balanced by the tangy, creamy goat cheese that rounds out the dish. The result is a rich glaze that clings to juicy chicken, creating a sauce that tastes bright yet comforting. A gentle simmer in the slow cooker concentrates those flavors without drying out the chicken, and the goat cheese gives it a soft, luxurious texture. Trust me, this step really makes a difference when you want a dish with depth but no hassle.
Best Cuts of Chicken
For the best results in a slow cooker, I like to use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for moisture and flavor. If you only have skinless boneless thighs or breasts, feel free to use them, but keep in mind the texture might be a bit different and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Dark meat stays juicy under slow-cooking heat, while breasts can dry out if left too long. Regardless, pat the chicken dry, season it well, and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when it’s done. This choice really shapes the dish’s final texture, so think about it when selecting your cut.
Ingredients & Nutrition
Classic Ingredient List
You’ll need:
- 1.5–2 lb (680–900 g) chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
- 1/2 cup (160 g) fig jam
- 4 oz (115 g) goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for optional searing
To add more flavor, a squeeze of lemon or a splash of balsamic can brighten the glaze. If you like a little kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. This classic list keeps things simple and accessible.
Nutrition per Serving
Estimated nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings): about 500 calories; around 28 g of protein; approximately 26 g of fat; and near 22 g of carbohydrates. The goat cheese brings some calcium and protein, while the fig jam adds natural sugars and fiber. If you’re watching your sodium, use low-sodium broth and adjust the added salt to taste. These numbers are an estimate, but they represent a hearty, well-rounded meal that pairs well with simple sides.
Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Recipe
Prep and Optional Searing
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. If you enjoy a deeper crust, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Then, transfer the seared or plain chicken to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then spoon in the fig jam and pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle thyme over the top. This step builds flavor, and the optional sear adds color without making things complicated.
Slow Cooker Timing and Temperature
Set the slow cooker to LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together. Check for doneness by making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be thick enough to coat a spoon; if it’s too thin, remove the lid for the last 15–20 minutes to let it reduce a bit. Avoid overcooking to prevent dry chicken; the jam glaze helps keep moisture if you keep an eye on the time.
When to Add Goat Cheese
Stir in 2–3 oz (60–85 g) of goat cheese crumbles about 10–15 minutes before serving. This lets it soften and mix into the sauce without breaking down completely. You can fold it in gently to keep some little creamy pockets. If you want a stronger goat cheese flavor, sprinkle more on top after serving for a warm, melty finish. This final touch lifts the dish with a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the sweet jam.
Air Fryer & Finishing Options
Air Fryer Adaptation for Crispiness of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
For that extra crispiness, shred or chunk the cooked chicken and lay it in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 4–6 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and caramelized. Spoon the goat cheese jam glaze back on top and serve right away for a lovely contrast of textures. This method gives you a quick, oven-like finish in less time.
Broiler Finish and Make-Ahead Tips of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
If you want a glossy caramelized surface on your slow-cooked chicken, broil the finished dish for 2–3 minutes on high while keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Here’s a make-ahead tip for you: you can prep the base (onions, garlic, jam, broth, herbs) a day before, refrigerate it, and then finish with the chicken and goat cheese on day two. Reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed. A brief broil or high-heat finish after slow cooking boosts the color and aroma.
Variations, Pairings & Serving Ideas
Regional and International Twists of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
Give this dish a global twist by swapping thyme for oregano and adding a splash of orange zest with the jam. For a Mediterranean flair, finish with crumbled feta instead of goat cheese and toss in a handful of chopped olives. A hint of chili paste can give it a Southeast Asian lift, while miso mixed into the broth adds a nice umami flavor. Each variation keeps the main idea but shifts the taste in delightful ways.
Best Side Dishes of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
Pair this dish with a bright green salad featuring citrus, or go for a warm side like quinoa, couscous, or roasted vegetables. Crusty bread or garlic butter baguette works wonderfully for scooping up the sauce. A simple steamed veggie medley or roasted asparagus adds color and balance. These sides allow the jam and cheese glaze to shine without competing flavors.
Troubleshooting
Common Problems and Fixes of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
If the chicken ends up dry, check your cooking time and consider switching to a higher-moisture cut next time or adding a bit more broth. If the glaze tastes flat, a splash of balsamic or lemon juice can really brighten it up; a pinch of salt can also enhance the sweetness. If the goat cheese breaks down, add it later or use slightly softer cheese; gentle stirring helps it mix in nicely instead of separating.
Storage and Reheating of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. A little more goat cheese crumbled on top when reheating will bring a bit of fresh creaminess. This dish warms up well and stays tender if you treat it gently.
FAQ – Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
What can I do if the dish turns out too dry?
Next time, add a bit more broth or reduce the cooking time by a couple of hours. If you notice it looking dry while cooking, check it halfway through and adjust the heat or moisture.
Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs work best for moisture, but boneless thigh or breast can also work. Just remember, thighs are more forgiving!
How can I brighten the glaze?
A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice will really lift the flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to adjust to your taste!
Conclusion of Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken
When you pull this Slow Cooker Fig Jam and Goat Cheese Chicken out after a long day, the aroma fills the kitchen, and the sight of the beautifully coated chicken makes it all worth it. The depth of those flavors combined with the richness of goat cheese and that glossy glaze is pure comfort food. I’m telling you, it might seem fancy, but you can absolutely do this. So why not give it a try? I promise, you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying this dish can be on any weeknight!