chicken and pineapple crock pot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best chicken and pineapple crock pot recipe

I’ve been making this chicken and pineapple crock pot recipe for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorites. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory spices is a match made in heaven.

I love how easy it is to throw all the ingredients into the crock pot in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. My kids devour it, and I appreciate how healthy it is too – with lean protein from the chicken, vitamin C from the pineapple, and fiber from the brown sugar.

It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday gathering. I’ve even served it at potlucks and everyone raves about it.

The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make – just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic.

No fuss, no muss. I’ve experimented with different spice blends over the years, but this one remains my go-to.

The flavors are well-balanced and complement each other beautifully. My family loves when I serve it with steamed veggies on the side, but it’s also great on its own or paired with some crusty bread for sopping up the juices.

Sweet and Savory Chicken and Pineapple Crock Pot

4.6 from 1652 votes

This easy slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and a savory sauce. The result is a flavorful, juicy dish perfect served over rice or with crusty bread.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pineapple

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 small red onion, sliced into half rings

For the Sauce

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker in a single layer.
2Scatter the sliced red bell pepper and red onion over the chicken.
3In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, reserved 1/4 cup pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar until well combined.
4Pour this sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
5Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 4 hours.
6The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
7After 4 hours, carefully remove the lid and add the drained pineapple chunks.
8Stir the cornstarch slurry into the cooking liquid.
9Replace the lid and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
10Using tongs, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and shred or slice into bite-sized pieces.
11Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir gently to coat with the sauce.
12Serve hot over steamed rice or with crusty bread.

🔧Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Small bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 140mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 25g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons mixed with 3 tablespoons water. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Sweet and Savory Chicken and Pineapple Crock Pot Works

To store leftovers let the chicken and pineapple cool completely then put it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days.

To reheat you can use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. This recipe also freezes well for up to three months just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For serving I like to spoon the chicken and pineapple over steamed rice or quinoa. The sauce is delicious so do not skip it.

You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter option or with crusty bread to soak up the juices. This dish is always a good idea for family dinners or casual get togethers because it is simple to make and everyone loves the sweet and savory flavors.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Savory Chicken and Pineapple Crock Pot

1. What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. You can also use thighs or a combination of both if you prefer.

2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple if you have access to it! Just be sure to peel and chop it up into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the crock pot.

3. How long does the chicken cook in the crock pot?

The cooking time will depend on your personal preference for doneness. If you like your chicken tender but not falling apart, cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you prefer it more well-done, cook on high for 3-4 hours.

4. Can I add other ingredients to customize the flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs to give this recipe your own unique twist.

5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Simply prepare the ingredients in advance, add them to the crock pot in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.

Similar Posts