Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken

There’s something special about coming home to the aroma of a delicious meal waiting for you, and that’s precisely what you’ll find with this Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken. I remember the first time I made it; I was juggling a busy day at work and wanted something that would effortlessly come together while I tackled my to-do list. The best part? You throw everything in the slow cooker, set it, and let it work its magic. As the hours passed, the flavors melded beautifully, creating a dish that was both comforting and vibrant.

When it was finally time to eat, I couldn’t wait to dig in. The tender pieces of chicken, coated in a tangy sweet sauce, paired perfectly with fluffy rice. It felt like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish ticks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and satisfaction. Plus, the leftovers? They taste even better the next day!

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken

The ingredients in Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken are what make it truly special. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The vibrant pineapple brings sweetness, while the vinegar and soy sauce introduce a tangy depth. Together, they create a luscious sauce that envelops the tender chicken and crisp vegetables.

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 1/2 lb), cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces – These are the star of the show, providing a protein-packed base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – This adds moisture and depth to the dish, ensuring the chicken remains juicy during the cooking process.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar – This brings sweetness and helps balance the tanginess of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adding to the sweetness, this also helps create a beautiful glaze.
• 1/3 cup white vinegar – This is essential for that tangy flavor that makes sweet and sour dishes so popular.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshens up the dish with a bright citrus note.
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor that complements the sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste – This thickens the sauce and adds a rich, hearty flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the dish with a subtle warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger – Brings a hint of spice that elevates the overall flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a touch of peppery heat.
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce (optional) – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this is a great addition.
• 1/3 cup chicken broth – Used later to help thicken the sauce with cornstarch.
• 1/3 cup cornstarch – This is key for thickening the sauce at the end.
• 3/4 cup diced fresh pineapple (you could also use canned but fresh is best) – Adds a burst of sweetness and texture.
• 1/4 of an onion, diced into 1 inch pieces – Provides a slight sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 of a green bell pepper, diced into 1 inch pieces (I’ve also used red) – Adds color, crunch, and a slightly sweet flavor.

Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken

Making Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken is a breeze! Let’s take it step by step. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a delicious meal that will impress everyone at the table.

1. Start by placing the diced chicken in your slow cooker. Make sure they’re evenly distributed as this helps them cook properly.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup chicken broth, brown sugar, granulated sugar, white vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Add in the garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s fully blended and the sugars have dissolved. This mixture is the sauce that will bring everything together.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Use a spoon to press the chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated. This will help the flavors infuse into the meat as it cooks.
4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for about 5 to 6 hours. At this point, you’ll want to resist the urge to peek too often; letting it cook undisturbed helps develop the flavors.
5. After the initial cooking time, prepare a small mixing bowl and stir together the 1/3 cup chicken broth and 1/3 cup cornstarch. Whisk until smooth, then gently fold this mixture into the chicken. It’s crucial to fold rather than stir, as the chicken will be very tender.
6. Now it’s time to add the diced pineapple, onion, and bell pepper. Carefully fold these ingredients into the chicken mixture. The colors will brighten the dish and add fresh flavors.
7. Cover the slow cooker again and allow it to cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and softens the vegetables and fruits, melding the flavors beautifully.
8. Once done, check the consistency of the sauce. It should be thick and glossy. If it’s to your liking, it’s time to serve!
9. Serve the Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken warm, ideally over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice helps soak up the luscious sauce, making every bite a comfort.

How to Switch It Up

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some ideas on how you can switch up your Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken to keep things exciting.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy again!
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa or noodles for a different twist.
• Vegetable Mix: Experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season. Broccoli, snap peas, or even zucchini can be great additions or replacements.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a more savory dish, reduce the sugar to suit your taste. You can always add more later if needed.
• Serving Style: Serve it in lettuce cups for a fun and fresh twist, perfect for appetizers or a light meal.

Great Combinations for Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken, there are plenty of delicious options that can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic pairings and ideas:

• Steamed Rice: A classic choice, white or brown rice complements the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice: For a twist, serve the chicken over fried rice with peas and carrots for added flavor.
• Salad: A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the dish. Opt for a sesame dressing to keep with the Asian theme.
• Spring Rolls: Serve with crispy spring rolls on the side for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken.
• Potstickers: These flavorful dumplings make an excellent addition to your meal, creating a fun and festive dining experience.
• Occasion: This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even casual get-togethers. It’s sure to impress and satisfy.
• Seasonal Pairing: During summer, consider serving it with a mango salad for a refreshing flavor contrast.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth to your table. The way the flavors meld and the ease of preparation make it a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying dish. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this fantastic dish tonight!

Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken is a deliciously easy weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce. This dish is perfect for busy families, and its vibrant flavors will keep everyone coming back for more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Total Time 5 hours hrs 35 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast halves cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup white vinegar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 - 1 teaspoon Sriracha hot sauce (optional)
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 3/4 cup diced fresh pineapple (you could also use canned but fresh is best)
• 1/4 onion diced into 1 inch pieces
• 1/2 green bell pepper diced into 1 inch pieces (I've also used red)

Equipment

• Blender
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon
• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Step 1: Start by placing the diced chicken in your slow cooker. Make sure they're evenly distributed as this helps them cook properly.
2. Step 2: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup chicken broth, brown sugar, granulated sugar, white vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Add in the garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s fully blended and the sugars have dissolved. This mixture is the sauce that will bring everything together.
3. Step 3: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Use a spoon to press the chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated. This will help the flavors infuse into the meat as it cooks.
4. Step 4: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for about 5 to 6 hours. At this point, you’ll want to resist the urge to peek too often; letting it cook undisturbed helps develop the flavors.
5. Step 5: After the initial cooking time, prepare a small mixing bowl and stir together the 1/3 cup chicken broth and 1/3 cup cornstarch. Whisk until smooth, then gently fold this mixture into the chicken. It's crucial to fold rather than stir, as the chicken will be very tender.
6. Step 6: Now it’s time to add the diced pineapple, onion, and bell pepper. Carefully fold these ingredients into the chicken mixture. The colors will brighten the dish and add fresh flavors.
7. Step 7: Cover the slow cooker again and allow it to cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and softens the vegetables and fruits, melding the flavors beautifully.
8. Step 8: Once done, check the consistency of the sauce. It should be thick and glossy. If it’s to your liking, it’s time to serve!
9. Step 9: Serve the Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken warm, ideally over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice helps soak up the luscious sauce, making every bite a comfort.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy again!
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa or noodles for a different twist.
• Vegetable Mix: Experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season. Broccoli, snap peas, or even zucchini can be great additions or replacements.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a more savory dish, reduce the sugar to suit your taste. You can always add more later if needed.
• Serving Style: Serve it in lettuce cups for a fun and fresh twist, perfect for appetizers or a light meal.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.