Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe
Crockpot sweet and sour chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy sauce, making it a hit for family dinners or meal prep. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it also transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering feast that everyone can enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to whip up a batch of crockpot sweet and sour chicken. Firstly, the crockpot allows you to set it and forget it; you can prepare your meal in advance and let the slow cooker do the work. This dish is also highly customizable, making it perfect for picky eaters or for accommodating different dietary preferences. Furthermore, the vibrant flavors merge beautifully during cooking, resulting in a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
How to Make Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced culinary skills. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious sweet and sour chicken for your family.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish
Directions
- In a crockpot, combine chicken thighs, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, onion, and sugar snap peas.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch with water until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Pro Tips for Success with Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce mix for a few hours before placing them in the crockpot. This will infuse additional flavor into the chicken.
- Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Ensure that vegetables are cut into similar sizes to promote even cooking. This way, everything will be perfectly tender without any overcooked or undercooked pieces.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: The cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce, giving it that traditional sweet and sour texture. Make sure to whisk it well with the water to eliminate any lumps.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to increase the brown sugar slightly. Conversely, if you like it on the tangier side, reduce the sugar and add a splash more vinegar.
- Optional Add-ins: Consider adding additional vegetables like broccoli or carrots for more color and nutrients. This can make the dish even heartier.
- Serving Size: This recipe can easily be adjusted based on your needs. You can halve the ingredients for a smaller batch or double them if you’re feeding a crowd.
Flavor Variations for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon or two of sriracha or red chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Mango Madness: Substitute half of the pineapple with fresh or frozen mango chunks for a tropical flavor.
- Alternative Proteins: If chicken isn’t your preference, you can replace it with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just ensure they are marinated for extra flavor.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces such as hoisin sauce for a deeper flavor profile, or teriyaki for a sweeter version.
- Vegan Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables and use plant-based sauces to create a vegan delight.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Rice Base: Serve the sweet and sour chicken over steaming white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice for a filling meal.
- Noodles: For a different spin, try serving the chicken over cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or egg noodles, which will soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, serve the chicken and sauce over cooked quinoa, adding extra protein and fiber.
- Vegetable Medley: Serve with a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables to keep things light and nutritious.
- Egg Rolls: Pair your sweet and sour chicken with homemade or store-bought egg rolls for a delicious appetizer or side.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
This meal is ideal for meal prep, and it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or sauce to maintain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|———-|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQ About Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe. However, thighs are generally more tender and flavorful, so the dish may have a slightly different texture. Just make sure not to overcook the chicken breasts to prevent them from becoming dry.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as ketchup, are also verified gluten-free, if needed.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables cook faster than others. Adding vegetables can also enhance the nutrition and flavor profile of your meal.
How spicy is this dish?
The original recipe is not spicy. However, if you’d like to add some heat, consider incorporating chili flakes or sriracha to suit your taste. You can adjust the spice level to create the perfect balance for your palate.
How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked?
The chicken is properly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check the chicken for tenderness; it should shred easily with a fork when fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot sweet and sour chicken is a fulfilling and straightforward dish that is sure to please any palate. It brings together the delightful flavors of sweet and tangy sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables all in one hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a large gathering, this recipe is perfect for making your dinner experience enjoyable and stress-free. Give it a try, and savor the comforting taste of homemade sweet and sour chicken!
Print
Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Crockpot sweet and sour chicken combines tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy sauce for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine chicken thighs, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, onion, and sugar snap peas.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch with water until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 360-480 minutes or high for 180-240 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking. Adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar or vinegar as preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
