There’s something special about sweet and sour chicken—it’s that perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory that always hits the spot. But instead of calling for takeout, you can make this comforting dish right at home with the magic of your slow cooker. This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is simple, beginner-friendly, and made with pantry staples. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat yet comes together with ease, filling your home with irresistible aromas as it cooks low and slow.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Main Dish |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4 hours (low) / 2 hours (high) |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories | ~370 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from can or fresh)
- ½ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken. Season chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
- Load the crockpot. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks into the crockpot.
- Make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce until smooth. Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours or High for 2 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the sauce. About 20 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir into the crockpot, cover again, and let the sauce thicken.
- Serve and enjoy. Spoon sweet and sour chicken over fluffy white rice, then sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for a fresh finish.
Cooking Tip: To keep the peppers slightly crisp, add them halfway through cooking instead of at the beginning.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Protein options: You can make this with chicken thighs for juicier bites.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of pineapple juice.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to keep the sauce smooth.
- Spice level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to give it a little kick.
Recipe Variations
- Extra tangy: Add more vinegar and a splash of orange juice for a brighter flavor.
- Honey sweet and sour: Replace brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
- Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic pairing: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a takeout-style dinner.
- Light side: Add a crisp Asian cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
- Family platter: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, then set it out with egg rolls or dumplings for a complete cozy feast.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is everything you love about takeout—sweet, tangy, and satisfying—but made easier, cozier, and healthier at home. With simple ingredients and almost no effort, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you go about your day. Gather your loved ones, serve it over rice, and enjoy a family-style meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.