Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner solution! Our home’s air conditioning can be quite unpredictable, especially during the peak of summer. This often means I’m on a mission to keep the kitchen cool and avoid any extra heat in the house. That’s precisely why my slow cooker becomes an indispensable ally. Imagine whipping up a delicious, family-friendly meal without ever turning on the oven or stovetop, letting your Crockpot do all the heavy lifting. The result? A perfectly cooked, flavorful dish that brings the comfort of your favorite takeout straight to your dining table, all while keeping your home cool and stress-free. Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly easy and utterly delightful Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe!
Effortless & Flavorful: Your Guide to Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
There’s a unique joy in recreating beloved restaurant dishes in your own kitchen, especially when the process is as simple as using a slow cooker. This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe isn’t just about saving money on takeout; it’s about enjoying a wholesome, perfectly balanced meal designed for ultimate convenience. Forget the hassle of crowded restaurants or the rush of ordering delivery. With our easy-to-follow instructions, you can have a healthier, homemade version of a Chinese classic ready with minimal effort. Plus, making a large batch means delicious leftovers for lunch the next day, making meal prep a breeze. It’s a truly freeing experience to enjoy such a fantastic meal without any stress or worry.
Gather Your Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Meal
One of the best aspects of this Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is its reliance on readily available ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. We’ve carefully selected a combination that delivers that authentic sweet and sour flavor profile you crave, but with the freshness and control only homemade can offer. Below is a concise overview of what you’ll need. For precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, be sure to refer to the full printable recipe card at the bottom of this page.
Main Ingredients:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: The lean protein base, perfect for shredding or cubing.
- Garlic, Minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic depth to the sauce.
- Ground Ginger: Provides a warm, zesty kick that is essential for Asian-inspired dishes.
- Chicken Broth: Forms the liquid base of our flavorful sauce.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: For savory umami flavor without excessive salt. Opt for a gluten-free version if needed.
- Brown Sugar: Contributes to the signature sweetness and a hint of caramelization.
- Honey: Balances the tartness and adds a natural, rich sweetness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: The sour component that defines this classic dish, providing a bright tang.
- Ketchup: Offers a savory-sweet tomato base to the sauce, adding complexity.
- Sesame Oil: A small amount delivers a powerful, nutty aroma and flavor.
- Black Pepper: For a touch of mild spice and overall flavor enhancement.
- Sea Salt: Optional, to season to taste and further enhance flavors.
- Pineapple Chunks (Fresh or Canned): Adds burst of juicy sweetness and a delightful texture. Fresh pineapple offers a brighter flavor, while canned is convenient.
- Bell Peppers: We recommend using both red and green bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces, for a colorful presentation and fresh, crisp-tender texture.
Thickener Ingredients:
- Water: Used to create a slurry with cornstarch.
- Cornstarch: Our secret weapon for achieving that perfectly glossy, thick, and satisfying sauce.
Essential Equipment for Your Slow Cooker Success
Making Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken requires minimal specialized equipment, making it accessible for any home cook. The star of the show, of course, is your trusty slow cooker. We highly recommend investing in a model that features a digital timer, which automatically switches the appliance to a “warm” setting after the cooking time is complete. This intelligent feature prevents overcooking and ensures your dinner is perfectly done, no matter if you’re stuck in traffic or just running late. It truly takes the stress out of meal preparation, allowing you to set it and forget it with confidence.
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker): The main vessel for this hands-off meal.
- Small and Medium Mixing Bowls: For whisking together the sauce and the cornstarch slurry.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly combining the sauce ingredients and the thickener.
- Two Forks: Perfect for shredding the cooked chicken breast right in the slow cooker.
How to Make Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing this incredibly flavorful Sweet and Sour Chicken in your slow cooker is remarkably simple, designed for maximum taste with minimal effort. While the complete, detailed instructions are provided in the printable recipe card below, here’s an expanded overview to guide you through each stage, ensuring a perfect result every time.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by lightly spraying the inside of your slow cooker with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step helps prevent the chicken and sauce from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
- Add the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. You can keep them whole or cut them into larger chunks if preferred; they will become tender enough to shred later.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, low-sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using, for a richer color and depth), honey, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the sugar/honey has dissolved. This creates the vibrant, balanced sweet and sour sauce that will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.
- Combine and Cook: Carefully pour the freshly whisked sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Gently push the chicken down to ensure it is fully submerged and coated by the sauce. This ensures every piece cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Securely cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook the chicken on a low heat setting for 5-7 hours, or if you’re in a bit more of a hurry, cook on high heat for 2-3 hours. The longer, slower cooking method will yield incredibly tender and juicy chicken.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker (or, if using whole breasts, shred it directly in the pot using two forks). If you prefer bite-sized pieces over shredded chicken, you can carefully cut the cooked chicken breasts into cubes instead. Return the chicken to the slow cooker once shredded or cubed.
- Prepare the Thickener: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with cool water until a smooth, lump-free slurry forms. This mixture is vital for achieving the desired sauce consistency.
- Thicken the Sauce & Add Veggies: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker with the chicken and sauce. Gently whisk the mixture to incorporate the thickener evenly. Immediately, gently fold in the pineapple chunks and the vibrant bell pepper pieces. Avoid over-mixing to keep the bell peppers from breaking down too much.
- Final Cook: Replace the lid and continue cooking on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has visibly thickened to your liking and the pineapple and bell peppers are tender-crisp, still retaining some firmness.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the dish and season with sea salt if desired, adjusting to your preference. Before serving, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an added layer of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve your homemade Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken immediately over a bed of fluffy brown rice. For a lighter or lower-carb option, cauliflower rice also makes an excellent accompaniment. Enjoy this delicious, easy, and satisfying meal!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Ultimate Convenience
This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile when it comes to meal planning and storage. Making it ahead of time or enjoying leftovers is simple, offering a flexible solution for busy schedules.
Make-Ahead: This takeout favorite is exceptionally make-ahead-friendly! You can easily prepare the sweet and sour sauce a day or two in advance. Simply whisk all the sauce ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. For even more efficiency, consider chopping your vegetables (like bell peppers and pineapple) ahead of time and storing them in the fridge. We often prep a variety of vegetables in bulk at the beginning of the month and freeze them for our favorite Crockpot meals, making dinner assembly almost instantaneous.
Storage: Any leftover Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. It will stay fresh and delicious for three to four days, making it perfect for quick weekday lunches or another effortless dinner.
Freezing/How to Freeze: For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Once cooled completely, transfer the leftovers to an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. This is an excellent way to stock your freezer with healthy, homemade meals.
How to Reheat: Reheating your Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is straightforward. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw any portions overnight in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can thaw it on your kitchen countertop until it’s cold but no longer frozen, ensuring it heats evenly. We often reheat individual servings in the microwave for speed and convenience. For larger portions, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed through.
Recipe Variations to Suit Every Taste
One of the beauties of cooking at home is the ability to customize dishes to your exact preferences. This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing for a range of substitutions and modifications to fit various dietary needs and flavor desires.
Chicken Preparation: We recommend shredding the cooked chicken with two forks at the end of the cooking process for a tender, saucy texture. However, if you prefer, you can cut your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes before adding them to the slow cooker. This will yield more distinct chicken pieces in your final dish. For the pineapple, both fresh and canned pineapple chunks work wonderfully. We love the bright flavor of fresh pineapple, but canned (drained) is a convenient and equally delicious alternative.
Vegetarian Option: To transform this into a vegetarian-friendly Sweet and Sour “Chicken”, simply replace the chicken breast with plant-based alternatives such as firm tofu (pressed and cubed), tempeh, or even a hearty mix of extra vegetables like carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms. Be sure to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain the vegetarian integrity of the dish.
Vegan Option: Building on the vegetarian guidance, to make this recipe completely vegan, you’ll need to replace the honey with a plant-based sweetener. Excellent alternatives include maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup, which will provide the necessary sweetness without compromising vegan principles.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, provided you use certified gluten-free ingredients. The primary ingredient to watch out for is soy sauce; always opt for a low-sodium, gluten-free tamari or a specifically labeled gluten-free soy sauce brand if you or your guests have a high sensitivity to gluten. Always double-check labels for all ingredients, especially sauces and broths, to ensure they meet your gluten-free requirements.
Serving Size Adjustments: The base recipe is designed to yield four generous servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping a few portions for the week. If you need to feed a smaller group, you can easily halve the recipe. For larger gatherings or if you want more leftovers, simply double or triple the ingredients. When scaling up, ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume, and you may need to cook in batches or use a larger slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat with their sweet and sour, it’s incredibly easy to add a spicy kick. Stir in some chili garlic sauce, a pinch of red chili flakes, or a dash of sriracha to the sweet and sour sauce mixture before cooking. Start with a small amount and add more to taste until you reach your desired level of spice.
Sugar-Free Considerations: While achieving a completely sugar-free version of Sweet and Sour Chicken can be challenging due to the natural sugars in pineapple, you can significantly lower the sugar content. Opt for no-sugar-added pineapple chunks. Replace brown sugar and honey with sugar-free brown sugar substitutes and sugar-free honey alternatives. Additionally, choose a brand of ketchup that is specifically labeled sugar-free. These substitutions will help reduce the overall sugar while maintaining the delightful flavor profile.
Expert Tips for the Best Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Embrace More Sauce: If you’re like us and adore a saucier, more takeout-like Sweet and Sour Chicken, feel free to increase the sauce quantities by 50% or even double them. The extra sauce is fantastic for coating your rice and enhances the flavor of any reheated leftovers. You can also make extra sauce ahead of time and reserve it in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Utilize Slow Cooker Liners: For the ultimate easy cleanup, we highly recommend using slow cooker liners. These disposable bags fit snugly inside your crockpot, containing all the mess and virtually eliminating scrubbing. They are a game-changer for all our Crockpot recipes!
- Don’t Overcook Bell Peppers: To ensure your bell peppers remain vibrant and have a pleasant tender-crisp texture, add them towards the end of the cooking process with the pineapple chunks and cornstarch slurry. This prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy.
- Garnish for Flavor and Appeal: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions not only adds a beautiful visual element but also provides a lovely textural contrast and a fresh, aromatic finish to your dish.
- Browning Chicken (Optional): While not strictly necessary for slow cooker recipes, quickly browning the chicken pieces in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of depth and flavor. This step creates a beautiful sear and locks in juices, though it does add a little extra prep time.
What to Serve with Your Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
Transform your meal into a full Asian-inspired feast at home by pairing your Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken with a selection of complementary sides, main dishes, desserts, and even cocktails. Here are some fantastic suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
Sides to Complete Your Meal:
- Easy Fried Rice: A classic pairing that complements the sweet and sour flavors beautifully.
- Crock Pot Rice: Keep it hands-off with rice cooked right in your slow cooker.
- Air Fryer Cream Cheese Rangoons: Crispy, creamy, and irresistible appetizers.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots offer a fresh, healthy contrast.
- Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: Store-bought or homemade for an authentic touch.
Other Asian-Inspired Main Dishes for a Grand Feast:
- Orange Chicken and Broccoli: Another popular takeout favorite that’s easy to make.
- Crock Pot Cashew Chicken: A rich and nutty alternative.
- Asian Flank Steak: Tender steak with a savory marinade.
- Crockpot Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A lighter, fresh option.
- Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken: Sweet and savory, another slow cooker gem.
- Crockpot Beef and Broccoli: A hearty and satisfying classic.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Delight:
- Mandarin Orange Jello Salad: A refreshing, fruity, and light dessert.
- Sriracha Caramel Corn: An intriguing sweet and spicy treat.
- Mandarin Orange Angel Food Cake: Light, airy, and bursting with citrus flavor.
- 2 Ingredient Coconut Macaroon Cookies: Simple, chewy, and tropical.
- Tropical No-Bake Truffles: Easy to make and wonderfully refreshing.
Drinks to Complement Your Meal:
- Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini: A bold and exciting cocktail.
- Orange Moscow Mule: A refreshing and zesty classic with an orange twist.
- Kamikaze Shot: A classic, vibrant, and tangy choice.
- Green Tea Shot: Popular and easy to prepare.
- Restorative Basil Drop: A unique and herbaceous cocktail.
- Mai Tai: A tropical classic that perfectly complements Asian flavors.
When to Serve This Delicious Dish
This versatile Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Lunch: Excellent for meal prep and satisfying midday meals.
- Family Dinner: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that simplifies weeknights.
- Date Night: Impress with a homemade takeout favorite.
- Asian Night: The star of your themed culinary adventure.
- Chinese Night: A classic dish that embodies the spirit of Chinese-American cuisine.
More Incredible Crockpot Recipes to Explore
The slow cooker is a true kitchen hero, simplifying meal prep and delivering consistently delicious results. If you loved this Sweet and Sour Chicken, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our fantastic Crockpot recipes. Here are a few reader favorites:
- Crockpot Taco Pasta: A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal.
- Crockpot Mushroom Pasta Casserole: Creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy.
- Crockpot Coke Glazed Ham: A deliciously sweet and savory centerpiece.
- Crockpot French Fry Casserole: The ultimate comfort food side dish.
- Crockpot Corn Dog Casserole: Fun, easy, and a hit with kids and adults alike.
For even more variety, be sure to check out all of our Crockpot chicken meals. Do you enjoy exploring new culinary delights? Dive into our extensive collection of copycat recipes to recreate restaurant favorites, indulge in our tempting dessert recipes, and discover the full range of our convenient Crockpot Recipes.
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Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe
An easy Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe the whole family will love for dinner! Packed with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, this crockpot meal delivers fantastic flavor with minimal effort.
4 from 1 vote
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 279 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken Breast, boneless, skinless
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ Teaspoon Ground Ginger
- ¼ Cup Chicken Broth (low sodium recommended)
- ⅓ Cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce (Gluten-Free option available)
- ½ Teaspoon Brown Sugar
- 3 tablespoons Honey (can also use more brown sugar)
- 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Ketchup
- ¼ Teaspoon Sesame Oil
- ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- Sea Salt to taste (optional)
- 1 Cup Pineapple Chunks (fresh or canned – fresh preferred for best flavor)
- 2 Bell Peppers, cut into 1″ pieces (e.g., one red and one green)
Thickener ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Cool Water
- 2-3 tablespoons Cornstarch (**use more or less depending on desired sauce thickness)
Instructions
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with a non-stick coating spray.
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts inside the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is covered.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 5-7 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken or shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks, creating bite-sized chunks.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cool water to create a smooth slurry. Pour this thickener into the slow cooker and gently whisk it with the chicken and sauce mixture.
- Gently fold in the pineapple chunks and the bell pepper pieces.
- Continue cooking on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your preference and the pineapples and bell peppers are tender-crisp.
- Taste and season with salt if desired, adjusting to your flavor preference.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving, if desired, for extra flavor and garnish.
- Serve immediately over brown rice or cauliflower rice.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
- Small mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Two forks
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 36
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Recipe originally shared on July 13, 2015. Updated December 2020, August 2023.