Name: Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 4 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (skin removed); 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 2 large cloves garlic (minced); 3/4 cup natural ketchup; 1/2 cup orange marmalade ((lower calories, use sugar-free)); 1/2 cup crushed pineapple; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 1/2 tablespoons brown mustard; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (optional, for additional heat); 1/4 cup cornstarch (dissolved in 1/4 cup water)

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the vibrant flavors of Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken. I remember the first time I made this recipe; the aroma filled my kitchen, igniting memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying but don’t have the time to slave over a hot stove. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug, making it a favorite in our household. Imagine coming home after a long day to a deliciously fragrant meal waiting for you!

With the sweetness of pineapple and the tang of barbecue sauce, this dish beautifully balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it over rice, in sandwiches, or even as a filling for tacos. Every bite bursts with juicy chicken, coated in a glossy sauce that’s perfect for mopping up with crusty bread or drizzling over sides. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just treating yourself, you’ll find that this recipe makes any occasion feel special.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
40 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Wooden Spoon, Slow Cooker, Saucepan, Frying Pan

Why This Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken Is a Winner

Easy and Convenient

One of the things I absolutely love about this Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken is how easy it is to prepare. You simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! This makes it perfect for those hectic days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.

Flavor Explosion

This dish is a flavor explosion. The pineapple adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory barbecue elements. The balance between sweet and savory creates a mouthwatering experience that’s simply irresistible.

Healthy Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like onion, garlic, and crushed pineapple not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a healthier meal. The chicken is protein-packed, and you can feel good about serving it to your family, knowing it’s made from wholesome ingredients.

Versatile Dish

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken is incredibly versatile. You can serve it in various ways; whether atop a bed of rice, in a sandwich, or wrapped in a taco, it adapts to your preferences and makes for delicious leftovers!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to prep meals for the week, this recipe is a fantastic choice. It keeps well in the fridge and the flavors only get better as they sit together. You can easily make a large batch and have lunches sorted!

Family-Friendly

Finally, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Kids love it, and it’s great for family gatherings. You can serve it alongside a variety of sides, ensuring everyone is happy and satisfied.

Ingredient List for Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken

The ingredients for this Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken are designed to complement each other perfectly. The key players include succulent chicken, sweet pineapple, and zesty barbecue sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Each ingredient plays its role, making the dish not only delicious but also a delightful culinary experience.

4 pounds bone-in chicken pieces, skin removed: This is the star of the dish, providing juicy meat that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a savory depth and sweetness when cooked.
2 large cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
3/4 cup natural ketchup: Serves as the base for the barbecue sauce, offering sweetness and tang.
1/2 cup orange marmalade (lower calories, use sugar-free): Brings a bright citrusy note that balances the savory elements.
1/2 cup crushed pineapple: Adds sweetness and moisture, enhancing the barbecue flavor.
2 tablespoons honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and adds depth.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a unique umami flavor that rounds out the sauce.
1 1/2 tablespoons brown mustard: Adds a tangy kick that brightens the overall flavor profile.
2 teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning the dish perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
2 teaspoons sriracha sauce, optional: For those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meal.
For Thicken the Sauce: 1/4 cup cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 cup water: Used to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Putting Together Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken. It’s all about layering flavors and letting the slow cooker do its magic. The result is a dish that’s not only easy to make but will leave your home smelling incredible!

Start by preparing your sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the onion, garlic, natural ketchup, orange marmalade, crushed pineapple, honey, Worcestershire sauce, brown mustard, salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, the optional sriracha sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is nicely blended together. The citrusy aroma of the orange marmalade and pineapple will have you drooling already!
Next, place the bone-in chicken pieces into the slow cooker. I recommend skinning the chicken for a healthier option, but feel free to keep the skin on if you prefer. Once the chicken is in the pot, pour the prepared sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated. This is where the magic begins!
Now it’s time to set your slow cooker. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook this on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, for a more leisurely approach, set it to LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Either way, you’ll end up with tender, juicy chicken that practically falls off the bone.
As the chicken cooks, the sauce will thicken and intensify in flavor. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the liquid from the slow cooker and transfer it to a saucepan. Using a ladle is the best way to do this to avoid any mess.
Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat. Then, prepare the cornstarch slurry by dissolving cornstarch in water. Pour this mixture into the simmering sauce, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. You’ll notice it quickly thickening into a luscious glaze that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Finally, pour the thickened sauce back over the chicken in the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to ensure everything is coated in that incredible sauce. The aroma at this point is simply irresistible!
Serve the Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken over a bed of steamed rice, with mashed potatoes, or alongside a vibrant salad. It’s perfect for any occasion, and you’ll definitely want to have some crusty bread on hand to mop up that delicious sauce!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook times may vary: Depending on your slow cooker model, cooking times might differ slightly. Always check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Thickening the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to add more cornstarch, whisking until you reach your desired consistency.
Flavor development: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce overnight in the fridge enhances the flavors even more.
Serving suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations about Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken

There are countless ways to enjoy this Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken, making it a versatile dish that can easily adapt to your taste. Here are some exciting variations to consider:

Substitute chicken: Feel free to use boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker cooking time.
Add vegetables: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even sweet potatoes during cooking for added nutrition.
Change up the sauce: Experiment with different barbecue sauces or add soy sauce for an Asian twist.
Make it spicy: Add more sriracha sauce or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Serve differently: Use leftovers in sandwiches or tacos for next-day meals.
Try a tropical twist: Add diced mango or papaya for a fruity flavor boost.
Freezing: This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch for easy meal prep.

Serving Options for Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Serving your Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken can be as creative as your heart desires. Here are some ideas to make the most of this delightful dish:

Over rice: Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the sauce.
In sandwiches: Shred the chicken and serve it in a bun for a tasty sandwich.
With sides: Consider classic sides like baked beans or coleslaw to balance the flavors.
Seasonal salads: In warmer months, pair it with a fresh summer salad featuring leafy greens and citrus.
Meal prep: This dish packs beautifully for lunchboxes, making it perfect for meal prep!
For gatherings: It’s an excellent dish for potlucks and family reunions, where everyone can enjoy the flavorful chicken.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Just remember that boneless chicken tends to cook faster, so you’ll want to check on it a bit earlier than the given cooking times. The flavors will still meld beautifully with the sauce!

No problem! If you’re out of pineapple, you can try using other fruits like mango or peaches for a slightly different flavor. You could also use a mix of fruit juices to achieve a similar sweetness without the fruit itself. The key is to maintain that balance of sweet and savory!

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will last for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for later by placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Just make sure to label them with the date!

If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more sriracha sauce or even fresh chopped jalapeños to the sauce! Just be cautious with the amount—it’s easy to add more, but hard to take it out once it’s in!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and yields mouthwatering results every time. I encourage you to give this recipe a try tonight!