Easy Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken for Busy Weeknights

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re a working mom juggling three dinner requests or someone just tired of takeout prices, this slow cooker recipe is your new best friend. Crockpot sweet and sour chicken brings together tender chunks of chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful bell peppers in a sweet, tangy sauce that’s so much better than delivery.

The best part? You basically toss everything into the slow cooker and walk away. It’s the definition of low effort, high reward. While the crockpot does all the heavy lifting, you can focus on your evening — whether that means helping with homework, watching a Hallmark movie, or, let’s be real, just sitting in silence for 10 minutes. This dish is a winner for picky eaters and busy schedules, and it’s packed with flavors that’ll make you feel like a kitchen superhero (cape optional).

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What is Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Crockpot sweet and sour chicken is a slow-cooked version of a beloved Asian-inspired dish that typically combines tender chicken with a zingy sauce made from vinegar, ketchup, and sweeteners like honey or sugar. Toss in some pineapple and bell peppers, and you’ve got a dish that checks all the boxes: sweet, tangy, savory, and a little sticky (in the best way). Instead of stir-frying, this version leans on the magic of the slow cooker to get everything juicy and flavorful without babysitting a hot pan.

The chicken gets incredibly tender as it simmers, absorbing every drop of that crave-worthy sauce. If you’re craving something with a little pizzazz but without the chaos of oil splattering all over your stovetop, crockpot sweet and sour chicken is the ticket. It brings all the takeout vibes straight to your kitchen—no tipping required.

Reasons to Try Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

First off, this Crockpot sweet and sour chicken is a total lifesaver on chaotic weeknights. You know the ones—when dinner feels like just one more mountain in an already long day. With just 10 minutes of prep, you toss everything in the crockpot and walk away. That’s it. No flipping, no watching, no sweating over the stove. Second, it’s family-friendly.

The sweet and tangy sauce is a big hit with kids (even the fussy ones), and it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or even wrapped up in lettuce cups for something different. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry ingredients, so you’re not hunting down exotic sauces you’ll only use once. Finally, it’s healthier than takeout. You control the ingredients, the sodium, the sugar—everything. It’s a meal that tastes indulgent but doesn’t come with a side of guilt.

Ingredients Needed to Make Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in 100% juice, undrained
• 1⁄4 cup cornstarch
• 1⁄3 cup honey
• 1⁄3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1⁄4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1⁄4 cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice and sliced green onions, for serving

Instructions to Make Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Making Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken at home is easier than you might think. Follow this step by step guide, and you’ll end up with a delicious, takeout-style dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned slow cooker fan, these detailed instructions will walk you through each part of the process so nothing feels overwhelming.

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken and Vegetables

Start by prepping your ingredients for the slow cooker. Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly—no one wants one piece undercooked and another one dry and chewy.

Then, chop one red bell pepper and one green bell pepper into 1-inch chunks. These not only add vibrant color but also a mild, sweet crunch that balances the dish. If you’re out of bell peppers or prefer a milder veggie, feel free to use chopped zucchini or even carrots as a substitute. You can find more ideas in our ingredient substitution guide for similar crockpot recipes.

Finally, open a 20-ounce can of pineapple chunks—make sure it’s packed in 100% juice, not syrup. The juice will help form the base of your sauce. Don’t drain it—you’ll need that liquid gold.

Once everything’s prepped, place the chicken, bell peppers, and entire can of pineapple (juice and all) into your 5–6 quart slow cooker. Give it a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, create your sauce. Add:

• 1/4 cup cornstarch (this helps thicken the sauce while it cooks)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Use a whisk and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. You’re looking for a sauce that tastes both tangy and sweet—this is where the “sweet and sour” magic happens. If you want your sauce a little more on the tangy side, increase the vinegar slightly. For a sweeter kick, a splash of pineapple juice works wonders. For extra garlic flavor, feel free to substitute fresh minced garlic or check out our homemade garlic sauce tips.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Crockpot

Now that the sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the chicken, peppers, and pineapple already in the slow cooker. Use a spoon or spatula to gently toss everything together, coating the chicken and veggies with that rich sauce. Don’t worry if it looks thin—this step by step process allows the sauce to thicken beautifully as it cooks.

At this point, you can cover the slow cooker and walk away. Isn’t that the beauty of a dump-and-go recipe?

Step 4: Cook Until Tender and Flavorful

Set your crockpot to LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours, depending on your schedule. If you’re home while it’s cooking, give the mixture a gentle stir about halfway through. This helps the cornstarch distribute evenly and encourages the sauce to thicken.

Resist the urge to lift the lid too often—each peek adds cooking time and lets precious heat escape. Trust the process, and let the slow cooker do its thing.

By the end of this cooking step, the chicken should be fork-tender and juicy, the vegetables soft but not mushy, and the sauce thick and glossy.

Step 5: Adjust and Finish

When the timer goes off, lift the lid and give everything one last stir. Taste a piece of chicken and a bit of sauce. Want a bit more salt or sweetness? This is your moment to fine-tune the flavor.

If the sauce is thinner than you’d like, just let the dish sit uncovered for 10–15 minutes on the warm setting. The sauce will naturally thicken as it rests. For more thickening tricks, check out our slow cooker troubleshooting tips.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice if you’re feeling wholesome. Garnish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.

Want to change it up? Serve it over noodles or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. And if you’re building a full dinner spread, pair this with our Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes or Chicken Teriyaki Noodles for a cozy comfort-food night.

What to Serve with Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

This dish already has protein, veggies, and a pop of sweetness, so it’s pretty complete. But if you’re feeling extra (we see you), try pairing it with some steamed jasmine or basmati rice. Cauliflower rice works great if you’re watching carbs. For a little crunch, throw together a quick Asian-inspired slaw or some sesame green beans. You could also serve it alongside crispy spring rolls or dumplings if you’re in the mood for a full “takeout at home” vibe. And if you’re going all in, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lime will round things out beautifully. For another tropical spin on chicken, try our Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken.

Key Tips for Making Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Keep these tips in your back pocket for next time. First, cut your chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks uniformly—no dry bits or undercooked chunks. Second, don’t skip the cornstarch in the sauce—it helps create that glossy, thick texture we all love. Want a thicker sauce at the end? Take off the lid during the last 30 minutes or turn the crockpot to warm and let it sit uncovered for a bit. Third, use pineapple in juice—not syrup—to keep things from getting overly sweet. If your slow cooker runs hot, check it early. Finally, don’t overcook it! This dish only needs 3–4 hours on low. Overdoing it turns your chicken into stringy sadness.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Leftovers? You’re in luck—this dish keeps like a champ. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, toss it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or pop it in the microwave in 30-second bursts. If you’ve made a big batch, you can also freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat the same way. Pro tip: double the batch and stash some in the freezer—you’ll thank yourself on your next “what’s for dinner?” panic moment.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and hold up really well in slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
You can. Just simmer everything in a large pot on the stove over low heat for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version and double-check your ketchup label.

Can I add more veggies?
Sure! Try adding chunks of onion, snap peas, or even baby corn for extra crunch.

Will picky eaters like it?
If they like sweet stuff, definitely. It’s one of those dishes that gets “just one more bite” approval from kids.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot sweet and sour chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s a life hack. It’s the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed, offering big takeout flavor without the delivery bill (or the MSG). It’s quick to prep, easy to love, and perfect for families who want real food without the stress. Whether you’re feeding toddlers, teens, or tired adults, this recipe brings everyone to the table—smiles included. If you love this, don’t miss our Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken or Chicken Teriyaki Noodles for even more easy dinner wins.

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