Craving a sweet and spicy dinner with minimal effort? The Jezebel Chicken Crockpot recipe from Mangoes and Palm Trees delivers tender chicken in a tangy, flavorful sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. Set it in the morning, and enjoy a Southern-inspired meal by evening!
Introduction to Jezebel Chicken
The Jezebel Chicken Crockpot recipe is a Southern classic that blends sweet pineapple preserves, tangy apple jelly, and spicy horseradish for a unique, crowd-pleasing dish. Ideal for busy nights, this set-it-and-forget-it recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. Explore more in our Chicken Recipes.
Origins of the Dish
Rooted in Southern cuisine, Jezebel Chicken is named for its bold, sassy flavors. The combination of sweet preserves and spicy horseradish reflects the region’s love for balanced, vibrant dishes.
Why It’s a Weeknight Favorite
With minimal prep and a crockpot doing the work, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules. It’s versatile, kid-friendly, and pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables.
Jezebel Chicken Crockpot Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (high) or 6 hours 10 minutes (low)
Serves: 4
Main Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Trimmed |
| 1 cup | Pineapple preserves | - |
| 1 cup | Apple jelly | - |
| 2 tbsp | Prepared horseradish | - |
| 2 tbsp | Dijon mustard | - |
| 1 tsp | Black pepper | - |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt | - |
Optional Add-ins
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Green onions | Chopped |
| 1/2 cup | Bell peppers | Chopped |
| 1/4 cup | Brown sugar | - |
| 1 tsp | Garlic powder | - |
| 1 tsp | Smoked paprika | - |
Instructions
- Rinse chicken breasts under cold water, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour sauce over chicken, ensuring even coating. Add optional green onions, bell peppers, brown sugar, garlic powder, or smoked paprika if desired.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Stir sauce halfway through cooking for better flavor absorption.
- Remove chicken, let rest 5 minutes, then slice or shred. Serve with sauce over rice or vegetables. Optional: Garnish with mango chutney for a tropical twist.
Making the Jezebel Sauce
Key Components
The Jezebel sauce combines sweet pineapple preserves, apple jelly, spicy horseradish, Dijon mustard, and black pepper for a balanced, tangy flavor.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Start with small amounts of horseradish and mustard, tasting as you go. Add more for heat or extra preserves for sweetness to balance flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes to Pair
Serve with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for color and nutrition. Pair with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or cornbread to soak up the sauce. A green salad adds freshness.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnish with chopped parsley, cilantro, green onions, or toasted sesame seeds. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or lime wedges for brightness. Optional: Drizzle with honey or mango chutney for a tropical touch.
Storing Leftovers
Refrigeration Tips
Cool chicken to room temperature, store in airtight containers, and refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days.
Reheating Methods
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Microwave | Place in microwave-safe dish, cover, heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. |
| Stovetop | Heat in a non-stick pan with a splash of water or broth on medium-low for 5-7 minutes. |
| Oven | Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in oven-safe dish, cover with foil, bake 15-20 minutes. |
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
Each serving (~1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately 350 calories, with protein from chicken and moderate carbs/fats from the sauce.
Health Benefits
Chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair. Pineapple in the sauce offers vitamins and antioxidants. Mustard adds flavor without extra calories. Learn more at Healthline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
Avoid dry chicken by checking the internal temperature (165°F) and not exceeding recommended cooking times.
Balancing Flavors
Taste the sauce before adding to the crockpot, adjusting preserves, horseradish, or mustard for a harmonious sweet-spicy balance.
Reader Testimonials
Success Stories
Anna from Texas: “My family loved it! The chicken was tender and flavorful.” John from Ohio: “So easy, and the taste was amazing.” Sarah from California: “Saved my dinner party!”
Creative Twists
Emily from Florida added pineapple chunks for a tropical vibe. Mark from New York used cayenne for extra heat. Lisa from Oregon included carrots and bell peppers for color and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Do I Need for Jezebel Chicken Crockpot?
Chicken breasts, pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Jezebel Chicken?
6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in a crockpot.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, thighs add extra flavor and tenderness.
Is Jezebel Chicken Spicy?
It has mild spice from horseradish and mustard, adjustable to taste.
Can I Make Jezebel Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate, then reheat gently.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Jezebel Chicken?
Rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or cornbread.
Can I Freeze Jezebel Chicken Leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
The Jezebel Chicken Crockpot recipe is a must-try for its sweet-spicy flavor and ease. Perfect for busy days, it transforms simple ingredients into a Southern delight. Add a tropical mango chutney garnish for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* twist. Enjoy this flavorful meal with family and friends!
