Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite with minimal effort. Tender chicken cooks slowly with vibrant bell peppers, pineapple, and a tangy homemade sauce, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• ½ cup vinegar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the cubed chicken, chopped green and red bell peppers, chopped onion, and pineapple chunks into the crockpot.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup until well combined. Pour this sauce over the ingredients in the crockpot.
3. Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Step 4: If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add minced garlic or ginger to the sauce before cooking.
• Serve over steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Try using different colored bell peppers or adding sliced carrots for more crunch and color.
• Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by varying the amount of brown sugar or vinegar to taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the chicken tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cubed chicken, but it will increase the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before serving.

How do I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can simmer the sauce uncovered in a pan after cooking to reduce and thicken it before serving.

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 134 reviews

This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe features tender chicken breast cooked slowly with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks, all smothered in a tangy and sweet homemade sauce. Perfectly balanced flavors come together in a convenient slow cooker meal that’s easy to prepare and delivers a classic favorite with minimal effort.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Chinese-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup pineapple chunks

Sauce Ingredients

• ½ cup vinegar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup

Optional Thickener

• 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, dissolved in water)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Place the cubed chicken breast, chopped green and red bell peppers, chopped onion, and pineapple chunks directly into the crockpot, layering them evenly.
2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup. Whisk together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the sauce is well blended.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the crockpot, ensuring everything is coated.
4. Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the vegetables are soft.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a small amount of water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Continue to cook until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
6. Serve: Once cooked, stir gently to combine, and serve the sweet and sour chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

• Adjust vinegar and brown sugar quantities to balance sweetness and tartness to your preference.
• Using chicken thighs instead of breast will result in a juicier dish.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Adding pineapple juice can enhance the pineapple flavor if desired.
• Make sure to dissolve cornstarch well in cold water before adding to avoid lumps.

Keywords: sweet and sour chicken, crockpot recipes, slow cooker chicken, easy dinner, Chinese takeout copycat