Enjoy the Best Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken Recipe Today!

Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering blend of sweet and savory flavors with this easy Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken recipe. The combination of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and juicy pineapple chunks creates a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. By letting your slow cooker do the work, you can sit back and savor the aroma of this tropical-inspired meal as it simmers to perfection.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken

• 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained; reserve a splash of juice if you want)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, boosts savory flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: Sliced green onions, chopped cilantro

For a thicker, stickier sauce:

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water

How to Make Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Add to Crockpot

Start by placing the chicken in the slow cooker and seasoning it with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, pineapple chunks, soy sauce (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Cook

Cover the Crockpot and let the flavors meld together on the LOW setting for 6 to 7 hours or the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through when it’s done.

Shred

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the Crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot, stirring it into the pineapple BBQ sauce.

Thicken (optional)

If you’d like a thicker, stickier sauce, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the Crockpot, cover, and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Serve

Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Enjoy it over a bed of fluffy rice, stuffed into sandwich buns, or layered into taco shells. Top it with sliced green onions or fresh chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken

When it comes to making this dish, a few simple tips can help you achieve the most delicious results:

• Chicken Cuts: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a classic choice, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more succulent texture.
• BBQ Sauce Selection: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to find your perfect match – from tangy and spicy to sweet and smoky, the options are endless.
• Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: Fresh pineapple will provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but canned pineapple chunks are a convenient and budget-friendly option.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to customize the spices and seasonings to suit your personal taste preferences. Add a pinch more garlic or onion powder, or try a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

Meal Prep and Storage

Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is an excellent meal prep option, as it reheats beautifully and can be enjoyed throughout the week. To meal prep, simply cook the dish as directed, then portion it out into airtight containers. Store the shredded chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer-term storage, the Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken can be frozen. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer the chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
• Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings
• Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

FAQs About Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Can I add vegetables to my Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?

Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value. Some great options include bell peppers, carrots, and onions. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and add them to the Crockpot along with the chicken and sauce. Keep in mind that adding vegetables may alter the cooking time slightly, so check for doneness to ensure everything is cooked properly.

How can I ensure my sauce is not too sweet?

If you find that your BBQ sauce is too sweet for your taste, there are several ways to balance the flavors. You can add a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar) to introduce acidity, which helps cut through the sweetness. Alternatively, adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or incorporating soy sauce can enhance savory notes. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust as necessary for your desired flavor profile.

What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?

Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce. Coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast, while roasted or steamed vegetables bring freshness to the meal. For a heartier option, baked beans or corn on the cob are also excellent accompaniments. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller serving size?

To adjust the recipe for a smaller serving size, you can halve the ingredients. Use 1 lb of chicken, ½ cup of BBQ sauce, and ½ cup of pineapple chunks. The cooking time will remain similar, but check the chicken for doneness a little earlier, around the 4-hour mark on LOW or 2-hour mark on HIGH. This way, you can still enjoy the dish without having too many leftovers.

Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With the convenience of your slow cooker and the irresistible combination of chicken, pineapple, and BBQ sauce, this dish is a winner any night of the week. So, grab your Crockpot and get ready to savor the taste of summer all year round!

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