Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of tender, succulent chicken infused with sweet pineapple and savory Asian-inspired flavors. This Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into an extraordinary dining experience. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious, stress-free meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 can pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Rinse the boneless chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier serving.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Whisk the mixture until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well blended.
- Open the can of pineapple chunks and drain the juice into a separate bowl. Reserve the juice for later use, as it will add flavor to the dish.
- In the slow cooker, place the chopped chicken breasts at the bottom. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated.
- Add the drained pineapple chunks on top of the chicken in the slow cooker. This will allow the pineapple to infuse its sweetness into the dish as it cooks.
- If desired, add the reserved pineapple juice to the slow cooker for added flavor and moisture. This will also help to create a delicious sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking method will ensure that the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors from the sauce and pineapple.
- After 4 hours, check the chicken for doneness. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Once cooked, gently stir the chicken and pineapple mixture to combine the flavors. Serve the Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken over steamed rice or with your favorite Asian-style side dishes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy your delicious, sweet and savory meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality boneless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
- Marinating Magic: For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes before slow cooking.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Prevent Overcooking: Check the chicken at the
- 5-hour mark to ensure it doesn't become dry. Every slow cooker is slightly different.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Customize Your Flavor: Add a dash of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of sesame oil for extra depth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 139kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
