Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Name: Crockpot Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486094H10S
Total time: PT-486094H10S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (with juice); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/3 cup honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: June 14, 2025

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Introduction to Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re anything like me, juggling a busy life with family and work can feel like a circus at times. That’s why I’m so excited to share my Crockpot Pineapple Chicken recipe with you! It’s a delightful dish that combines sweet pineapple and savory chicken, making it a fantastic option for an easy dinner. Imagine tossing everything into the crockpot and coming home to a heavenly aroma and a satisfying meal. This recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days when you need a little extra joy at the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

This Crockpot Pineapple Chicken recipe is truly a game-changer for busy days. It’s a one-pot wonder that packs a punch of flavor without demanding too much of your precious time. Just toss everything in, set the timer, and relax while the crockpot does its magic. The sweet tang of pineapple elevates the tender chicken, making it a meal that’ll please even the pickiest eaters in your family. Talk about a win-win!

Ingredients for Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Gathering your ingredients is an essential step for a successful Crockpot Pineapple Chicken, and I promise you, it’s worth the effort! Here’s what you need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! These cook up tender and juicy, absorbing all that delicious sauce.
Pineapple chunks: Canned for convenience. They add the perfect sweetness and a hint of tropical vibe to your meal.
Red and green bell peppers: They lend color and texture. Feel free to mix it up with yellow or orange peppers if you prefer!

Low-sodium soy sauce: This adds a savory depth to the dish. Who doesn’t love that umami flavor?
Honey: A natural sweetener that beautifully balances the savory elements. You could substitute with maple syrup or agave if you wish.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives an aromatic kick. You can never go wrong with garlic, right?

Fresh ginger: The grated ginger adds warmth and spice. Ground ginger can work in a pinch, but fresh is definitely better!
Cornstarch: This is used for thickening the sauce at the end. If you’re watching carbs, you might skip it, but it enhances texture.
Water: Just enough to mix with cornstarch and bring that silky sauce to life.

Optional garnishes: Sliced green onions and sesame seeds. They add a nice finish and crunch!

The exact quantities of these ingredients can be found at the bottom of this article for your convenience or easy printing. Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Making this scrumptious Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be set for a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Let’s dive in!

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of the crockpot. This helps them soak up all those flavors as they cook. Each piece of chicken acts like a sponge, soaking up what’s to come.

Step 2 – Mix the Marinade

In a medium bowl, grab that luscious pineapple juice from the can. Add in the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined. This marinade is a magical blend! The sweetness from the honey will dance with the tang from the pineapple, and your taste buds are in for a treat!

Step 3 – Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Now, pour the delightful marinade over the chicken in the crockpot. Next, toss in those vibrant chopped red and green bell peppers along with the canned pineapple chunks. The colors will brighten your day while adding crunch and sweetness. It’s like a party in your crockpot!

Step 4 – Slow Cook the Dish

Cover your crockpot and set it to cook. You can choose either low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Either way, you’ll walk away knowing dinner is taken care of. The chicken will transform into tender goodness, and the aromas will fill your home.

Step 5 – Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, take a small bowl and blend the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot. This step is key! It thickens the sauce, making every bite a luxurious experience.

Step 6 – Serve and Garnish

When it’s all done, it’s showtime! Serve the Crockpot Pineapple Chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a delightful meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top if you like. They add a pop of flavor and a beautiful finish!

Tips for Success

Prep ahead! Chop the veggies the night before to save time.

Consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Don’t skip the slurry! It’s crucial for that yummy thick sauce.
Experiment with different veggies, like snow peas or carrots, for variety.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

Equipment Needed for Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Crockpot: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, a slow cooker works just as well.
Mixing bowl: For combining those tasty marinade ingredients. A large measuring cup can do the trick!

Whisk: A must for blending ingredients smoothly. A fork will work in a pinch!
Measuring cups: For accuracy in the recipe. Don’t have them? Use any cup as a guideline!

Variations of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for some heat. A little spice can elevate the flavor, making it extra exciting!

Vegetable Medley: Switch up the bell peppers with other veggies like snap peas, broccoli, or baby corn for added nutrition and crunch!
Low-Carb Option: Substitute chicken with cauliflower florets or tofu for a low-carb twist. Both options soak up the sauce beautifully while keeping it light.
Hawaiian Style: Toss in some diced ham or cooked bacon for a heartier dish. It introduces a savory depth that sings tropical vibes!

Quinoa or Brown Rice: Serve over quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier grain option packed with fiber.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

Pair with fluffy steamed rice or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce.

Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the meal’s tropical notes.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

FAQs about Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

As you dive into making this delightful Crockpot Pineapple Chicken, you might have a few questions. Here are some common ones that fellow home cooks often ask:

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! I often use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time. On high, it might take an extra 30 minutes.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, simply swap the low-sodium soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Both alternatives work beautifully!

What if I can’t find pineapple chunks?

No worries! You can use diced pineapple or even crushed pineapple. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time to ensure the texture is still delightful.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Definitely! You can prep the ingredients a day ahead and just throw everything in the crockpot when you’re ready. It’s a perfect way to ease your weeknight dinner hustle!

What sides pair well with Crockpot Pineapple Chicken?

This dish excels with fluffy rice, but you can also serve it with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts on Crockpot Pineapple Chicken

There’s something truly magical about the simplicity of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken. It’s a dish that brings the family together, filling your home with delightful aromas and taste that dances on your palate. As a busy mom, I cherish meals like this that require little effort but deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. Whether it’s a hectic weekday or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. The sweet and savory balance makes it a favorite among my loved ones. I hope it adds warmth and happiness to your dinner table, just as it has for mine!