Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the classic takeout favorite to your home kitchen with ease. Prepared in a slow cooker, this recipe combines tender chicken with a tangy-sweet sauce and colorful vegetables, making it both convenient and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Convenient: With minimal hands-on cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Healthier Than Takeout: Made with wholesome ingredients and without deep frying.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of pineapple, bell peppers, and sweet-savory sauce delivers bold, balanced flavors.
• Family Favorite: A great option for both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Easy to make in advance and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can pineapple chunks with juice
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
• Cooked white or brown rice, for serving

For the sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup honey
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, ketchup, vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger until smooth. Set aside.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl or bag and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brown the chicken for about 4–5 minutes, just until the outside is seared.
4. Add the chopped bell peppers and pineapple chunks (with juice) to the bottom of the crockpot.
5. Layer the browned chicken on top of the vegetables and pineapple.
6. Pour the sauce evenly over all ingredients.
7. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
8. Stir gently before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
9. Serve over cooked rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3–4 hours on low
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of sriracha to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables.
• Different Proteins: Try using pork or shrimp instead of chicken.
• Extra Vegetables: Include broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn for added nutrition.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Use a sugar-free ketchup and reduce the honey slightly.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but chicken thighs also work well and offer more flavor.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Add a bit of pineapple juice or water to keep the sauce balanced.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

Browning enhances flavor but is optional. You can skip this step if you’re short on time.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for about 2 hours, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What sides go well with this dish?

White rice, brown rice, or noodles are perfect. You can also serve it with steamed or stir-fried vegetables.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight before cooking.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers will last for up to 3 days.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the extra volume.

Conclusion

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It brings together the vibrant flavors of sweet, sour, and savory in a wholesome homemade meal. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing ahead for the week, this recipe is a dependable favorite that’s sure to please.

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