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–+ servings
Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken for Effortless Weeknight Bliss

Discover an easy and flavorful Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken that's perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs Chicken thighs provide tenderness; breasts are a leaner substitute but may dry out if overcooked.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) Adds vibrant color and sweetness; feel free to include zucchini or carrots for a nutrient boost.
  • 1 cup onion Essential for depth and sweetness; while it can't be substituted without losing flavor, you can reduce the amount if preferred.
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks This ingredient offers a tangy sweetness; fresh pineapple elevates the flavor compared to canned.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup sugar Balances the sauce's sweetness; consider using honey for a lower-calorie option.
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar Adds acidity for depth; swap with rice vinegar for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup ketchup Forms the sauce base; low-sugar or homemade ketchup works great too.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce Infuses umami; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if dietary restrictions apply.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced Enhances overall flavor; fresh ginger can complement or replace this if desired.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced Provides warmth; you can omit if it's not available.
For Thickening
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used to thicken the sauce; alternative thickeners can be tried but may alter the final texture.
  • 3 tablespoons water Necessary for creating the cornstarch slurry; no substitutions needed.
For Serving
  • cooked rice Acts as the perfect base; low-carb alternatives like quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent substitutes.
  • chopped green onions Adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal.

Equipment

  • Crockpot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating. Layer the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your crockpot, giving it a solid base for the Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken.
  2. Next, layer 1 cup of chopped bell peppers, 1 cup of chopped onion, and 1 cup of pineapple chunks over the chicken in the crockpot. This creates a colorful mix of flavors and textures. Spread the veggies evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and absorb the rich flavors of the dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce until well combined. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger to the sauce mixture for an extra depth of flavor. Visualize a glossy, rich sauce; this is the base of your sweet and sour goodness!
  4. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetable layers in the crockpot. Ensure every piece of chicken and vegetable is coated, as this will infuse them with flavor as they cook. Give the ingredients a gentle stir to integrate the sauce with the other components, enhancing the overall taste of your Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken.
  5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The chicken should become tender and fully cooked, while the vegetables soften beautifully. Keep an eye on the dish; when done, you’ll see the sauce bubbling and thickening, creating a tantalizing aroma throughout your kitchen.
  6. About 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water in a separate bowl to form a slurry. Stir this slurry into the crockpot, mixing it well with the sauce. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and becoming glossy, providing a perfect coating for your tender chicken and vegetables.
  7. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve your delightful Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness and color. Enjoy every comforting bite of this luscious dish that brings smiles to the dinner table!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 30gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and ensure chicken is at room temperature for even cooking. Customize the sauce according to your preference.

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