Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a dish that dances on your taste buds, with its sweet and tangy flavors sending your senses into a tropical paradise. BBQ chicken sweet potato bowls Imagine tender chicken bathing in a luscious pineapple barbecue sauce, creating an aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame.
Now, picture this: it’s a sunny Sunday afternoon, and you have friends over, lounging in your backyard. You want to impress them without spending all day cooking. Enter Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken your secret weapon for both flavor and fun! This dish is as easy as it is delicious; just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the magic while you sip on a cool drink. crispy air fryer chicken.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
- The slow cooking process ensures that every bite is tender and juicy, while the pineapple adds a delightful sweetness.
- With its vibrant colors, it’s sure to be the star of any dinner table.
- Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, it’s versatile enough for tacos, rice bowls, or sandwiches!
Ingredients for Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken
For more inspiration, check out this Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Pineapple Chunks: Use canned or fresh pineapple chunks; either works well for that sweet burst of flavor.
- Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version; this is where the magic happens.
- Fresh Ginger: A small piece of fresh ginger adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic brings a robust flavor that complements the sweetness.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness without overpowering other flavors.
- Cornstarch: A little cornstarch mixed with water helps thicken your sauce at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop up those garlic cloves and grate some fresh ginger if you’re feeling fancy. It’s amazing how a bit of prep can elevate your cooking game!
Step 2: Layer It Up
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. They deserve a comfy spot since they’ll soak up all those delicious flavors. Add in the pineapple chunks like you’re decorating a tropical island.
Step 3: Mix Your Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger until combined. This flavorful concoction will be our magical elixir!
Step 4: Pour It On
Pour that glorious sauce over your chicken and pineapple layers. Make sure every piece is coated because no one likes dry chicken!
Step 5: Cook It Low and Slow
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender your chicken will be this is why we love crockpots!
Step 6: Thicken Up (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker sauce after cooking time is up, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir it into the pot and allow it to cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! Your Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is ready to steal the show at dinner parties or family gatherings or even just as an excuse to eat something delicious on a Tuesday night! Enjoy this finger-licking goodness while reminiscing about sun-soaked summer days ahead.
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken brings tropical vibes to your dinner table.
- It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that transforms simple chicken into a sweet and tangy delight.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by placing the chicken in the crockpot, then pour on the pineapple chunks and BBQ sauce. Set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken with two forks before serving for maximum flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in other proteins like pork or tofu. You can also add sliced bell peppers or onions for extra crunch and flavor. Mix in some spicy jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness; they won’t dry out like breasts.
- Make sure to shred the chicken after cooking to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken!
Sharing this dish with friends brought back memories of my first big family cookout. The aroma wafted through the air, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it definitely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs :
What is Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?
Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a simple, delicious dish that combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and tangy barbecue sauce. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it requires minimal prep time and delivers satisfying results. Serve it over rice or in sandwiches for a delightful dinner option.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?
Cooking Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the chicken to become more tender and absorb the flavors of the pineapple and barbecue sauce. Always ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The slow cooker method makes it easy to prepare ahead of time.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken. However, it’s important to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Cooking frozen chicken may require an extra hour or two compared to using fresh chicken. Ensure that the chicken cooks thoroughly and reaches the safe internal temperature before serving. Using frozen meat can be convenient, especially if you’re short on time.
What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?
Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Some popular choices include fluffy rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in sandwich form with coleslaw on the side for added crunch and flavor. Additionally, cornbread or baked beans make excellent accompaniments that complement the sweetness of the dish.
Conclusion for Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken :
Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a fantastic recipe that combines convenience with delicious flavors. Whether you’re cooking it for your family during the week or serving guests at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. BBQ chicken roll-ups With its simple preparation and hearty ingredients, you can enjoy a delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with sides and variations to make this recipe your own!
Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and barbecue sauce. This easy-to-prepare recipe allows you to savor a tropical feast without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss all ingredients into your crockpot and enjoy while it works its magic. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients; prepare garlic and ginger.
- Place chicken at the bottom of the crockpot and layer with pineapple chunks.
- In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until combined.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and pineapple, ensuring everything is coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the pot; cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Substitute chicken with pork or tofu for variations. Add sliced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor. Serve over rice, in tacos, or on sandwiches for diverse meal options.
