Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
Picture this: you’re craving that tangy, sweet goodness of sweet and sour chicken from your favorite Chinese spot but your budget and your schedule are giving you the side-eye. No worries! This Slow Cooker Sweet & Sour Chicken has got your back. With chunks of tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and juicy pineapple all swimming in an oh-so-delicious sweet and sour sauce, you’ll be spooning up a storm of flavors right from the comfort of your own kitchen.
You know how we all have that one ritual we can’t seem to shake off? For me, it’s hitting up my local Chinese restaurant at least once a month. There’s something about those vibrant flavors that just reels me in every time. But let’s face it – sometimes, my wallet and my hectic schedule have other plans. That’s where this killer slow cooker sweet and sour chicken recipe comes into play! It’s easy to make (thank you, slow cooker!), cheap, and shock full of flavor. That’s all I ask for in a meal.
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken Overview
Cuisine Inspiration: Asian-Inspired
Number of Ingredients: 7 (excluding salt & pepper)
Total Cook Time: 5 hours, 20 minutes
Primary Cooking Method: Slow Cooking
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free (if gluten-free sweet and sour sauce is used)
Key Flavor: Sweet and sour chicken
Skill Level: Beginner
Notable mentions
- Set It and Forget It: If you can toss ingredients into a slow cooker, you’re overqualified to make this dish. It’s the epitome of easy – just set it, forget it, and come back to a meal that smells like heaven!
- Healthy Twist: Wave goodbye to the guilt that often tags along with takeout. This homemade sweet and sour chicken packs in the goodness without compromising on taste. It still has that classic sweet and sour combo that hits the perfect balance – not too sugary, not too tangy, just mouthwateringly right.
- Family Favorite: As you can expect, this dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for those family nights or when you’ve got friends over. It’s the kind of meal that turns “What’s for dinner?” into “Can we have that crockpot sweet and sour chicken again?”
- Leftovers for Days: This recipe isn’t just a one-hit wonder – it makes for fantastic leftovers that some say taste even better the next day. The flavors deepen and meld overnight, making your dinnertime a breeze at home.
Ingredients to make Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, cubed. They’re like little sponges, soaking up all the saucy goodness. And hey, if you’re a thigh person, go ahead and use those instead.
- Pineapple Chunks: Juice included. They add a burst of sweetness and a tropical vibe. Fresh pineapple chunks work, too, if you have a pineapple at home.
- Bell Peppers: Any color you like, sliced into chunks or strips. They bring a lovely crunch and a pop of color to the slow cooker sweet and sour chicken.
- Sweet and Sour Sauce: It’s the heart of this dish, enveloping everything in that irresistibly tangy, sweet glaze. Store-bought is super convenient, but you can also make your own DIY version.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just a pinch to balance all the flavors in this slow cooker sweet and sour chicken recipe.
- Garlic Powder: For that must-have garlicky undertone.
For Thickening The Sauce
- Cornstarch: It transforms our sauce into a thick, glossy masterpiece that clings lovingly to every piece of chicken.
- Cooking Liquid from Slow Cooker: This liquid gold is infused with all the delicious flavors from your chicken, making it the perfect base for our thickened sauce.
How to make Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Place the cubed chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the pineapple chunks with their juice and the bell peppers to the chicken, ensuring an even distribution.
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce and rice wine vinegar over the chicken.
- Stir the mixture well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for about 4 hours.
To Thicken The Sauce
This step is optional, but honestly, there’s nothing better than a thick sweet and sour sauce! You’ll only need 1 extra ingredient and that flavorful liquid from the slow cooker.
- Once the chicken has cooked, transfer most of the cooking liquid to a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of the liquid, stirring until completely smooth to create a slurry.
- Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan, continuing to stir as the sauce simmers and thickens until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Once thickened, pour the sauce back into the slow cooker. Stir into the chicken, peppers, and pineapple, and serve!
Making Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken as a Dump Freezer Meal:
Turning your slow cooker sweet and sour chicken into a freezer meal is a great way to prep ahead for those times when you need a delicious dinner without the wait. It’s a strategy that ensures you have a flavorful, home-cooked meal ready to go, no matter how hectic your schedule gets.
Preparation For Freezing:
- Combine Ingredients: Grab a large zip-lock freezer bag and toss in the cubed chicken breasts. Then, add the pineapple chunks along with their juice, the sliced bell peppers, sweet and sour sauce, rice wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Seal and Mix: Press as much air out of the bag as you can before sealing it shut. Give the bag a few gentle shakes or a massage to make sure the chicken and veggies are thoroughly coated in the sauce and seasonings. This way, the flavors get a chance to meld together while the meal waits in the freezer.
- Label and Freeze: Don’t forget to write the date and the name of the recipe on the freezer bag. Lay it flat in the freezer, which helps with space-saving and ensures an even freeze.
Cooking From Frozen:
- Thawing: For optimal results, transfer the freezer meal to the fridge about 24 hours before you’re ready to cook. This step is crucial for a safe and even thaw.
- Cooking Time Adjustments: If you’re starting with a frozen sweet and sour chicken, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Dump the contents into your slow cooker, set it on low, and let it cook for around 5-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The goal is to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Thickening the Sauce: Follow the original recipe steps for thickening the sauce with a cornstarch slurry and then combine it back with the chicken and veggies for that perfect sweet and sour glaze.
This make-ahead method not only simplifies your meal prep but also infuses the chicken with all the delicious sweet and sour flavors, making it a surefire hit for any mealtime.
Popular substitutions & additions
- More Sweetness: Want a deeper, caramel-like sweetness in your sauce? Add a tablespoon of dark brown sugar into the mix. It’ll infuse your dish with a rich, molasses-like undertone.
- Spice it Up: If you’re all about that heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes. Start with a ½ teaspoon and adjust to your fiery preference.
- Add Some Ginger: Fresh ginger can bring a warm, aromatic zing to your crockpot sweet and sour chicken with pineapple. Grate in about a teaspoon along with your other seasonings.
- Cornstarch Coating: For chicken that’s a bit crispier, toss your cubed chicken pieces in cornstarch before adding them to the slow cooker. This helps the chicken get a different texture that’s slightly crisp on the outside but stays tender and juicy on the inside.
- Green Onion Garnish: After the cooking is all done, a handful of freshly chopped green onions sprinkled on top can add a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich flavors of your sweet and sour chicken.
Tips for making the best crockpot sweet and sour chicken with pineapple
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give your ingredients some space to mingle but not too much. A crowded slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking, while too much space can cause the sauce to reduce too quickly.
- Mind the Sauce Thickness: If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like by the end, don’t panic! You can always mix a little more cornstarch and water (in equal parts) and stir it in, letting it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. It’s a great trick to get that glossy, just-right sauce consistency.
- Crispness Counts: If you love a bit of crunch in your veggies, hold off on adding the bell peppers until the last 1-2 hours of cooking on low, or the last 30 minutes if you’re cooking on high. This way, they’ll keep their snap.
- Taste Test Your Sauce: Before you go pouring extra sauce into the mix, give it a taste. Everyone’s flavor preferences are unique – some like their sweet and sour chicken with a subtle saucy touch, while others crave it super saucy. If you find yourself in the “more sauce, please” camp, feel free to add a bit more, but only after the taste test.
How to store & reheat Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
Once your sweet and sour chicken has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. If you’ve got extra sauce, you can keep it in a separate container – this makes it super handy for adding a fresh saucy touch when reheating. Pop them in the fridge and you’re all set!
When you’re ready for more, gently reheat the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If it feels a bit thick, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to bring back that perfect saucy consistency.
How long will Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken last in the fridge?
Your sweet and sour chicken will stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Can i freeze Crockpot sweet and sour chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Store it in a freezer-safe container, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. The sauce can also be frozen separately. Then, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
What to serve with Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Rice: A fluffy bed of white rice makes the perfect canvas for your sweet and sour chicken, soaking up all that saucy goodness. Want a zesty twist? Go for lime rice. You won’t regret it!
- Noodles: Twirl some noodles as a delightful base for your chicken. Whether it’s tender lo mein or slurp-worthy rice noodles, they’ll add a fantastic texture contrast and soak up the sauce just right.
- Toppings: Sprinkle a handful of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top. This easy slow cooker sweet and sour chicken also pairs great with equally easy (yet tasty) toppings!
- Steamed Greens: If you’re feeling veggie-venturous, balance the sweet and sour tang with some steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas.
Frequently asked questions
How can I adjust the recipe if I like my sauce more on the sour side?
If you’re all about that tang, add a splash more rice wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the sauce. Start with a little, taste, and then adjust until you like it!
Can I use a different fruit instead of pineapple?
Pineapple is a classic in sweet and sour dishes, but you can certainly get creative! Mango chunks, canned lychee or orange juice can offer a different but equally tasty sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit.
Can I cook the chicken breasts whole?
You sure can, but remember, the cooking time might need a bit of tweaking. Whole chicken breasts will take longer to cook through compared to cubed pieces. Keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
This Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken brings the joy of your favorite Chinese spot right to your table, with the bonus of not having to leave your cozy couch or break the bank. It’s all about savoring those familiar, Asian-inspired comforting flavors while chilling in your favorite pj’s. Total win-win, if you ask me!
More Slow Cooker Chicken recipes:
- Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
- Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
- Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Slow Cooker Garlic Chicken
- Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Breasts
- Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken
- Slow Cooker Lentil Curry
I want to hear from you! If you try this easy Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe or any other of my 5 ingredient or less recipes on Dinner in 5, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment below! I read all the comments and respond!
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
Equipment
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 3 pounds boneless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 20 oz can of pineapple chunks including juice
- 2 bell peppers sliced into chunks or strips
- 1 14 oz bottle of sweet and sour sauce
- 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Thickening the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of the liquid from the slow cooker
Instructions
For the Chicken:
- Place the cubed chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the pineapple chunks with their juice and the bell peppers to the chicken, ensuring an even distribution.
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce and rice wine vinegar over the chicken, stirring well to coat evenly.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 4 hours.
For Thickening the Sauce:
- Once the chicken has cooked, transfer most of the cooking liquid to a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of the liquid, stirring until completely smooth to create a slurry.
- Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan, continuing to stir as the sauce simmers and thickens until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Once thickened, pour the sauce back into the slow cooker. Stir into the chicken, peppers, and pineapple, and serve!
Notes
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give your ingredients some space to mingle but not too much. A crowded slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking, while too much space can cause the sauce to reduce too quickly.
- Mind the Sauce Thickness: If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like by the end, don’t panic! You can always mix a little more cornstarch and water (in equal parts) and stir it in, letting it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. It’s a great trick to get that glossy, just-right sauce consistency.
- Crispness Counts: If you love a bit of crunch in your veggies, hold off on adding the bell peppers until the last 1-2 hours of cooking on low, or the last 30 minutes if you’re cooking on high. This way, they’ll keep their snap.
- Taste Test Your Sauce: Before you go pouring extra sauce into the mix, give it a taste. Everyone’s flavor preferences are unique – some like their sweet and sour chicken with a subtle saucy touch, while others crave it super saucy. If you find yourself in the “more sauce, please” camp, feel free to add a bit more, but only after the taste test.
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
