Description: A delightfully easy and flavorful crockpot recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the smoky tang of barbecue sauce, creating tender and juicy chicken perfect for any weeknight meal. This recipe is a true set-it-and-forget-it champion, ideal for busy individuals and families seeking a delicious and hassle-free dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand!)
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6-8 ounces each) OR 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Optional garnishes: Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, extra pineapple chunks, sriracha (for a kick)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple BBQ Sauce
The key to this recipe’s incredible flavor lies in the simple yet impactful sauce. Begin by retrieving the reserved juice from the can of pineapple chunks. This juice is packed with natural sweetness and enzymes that help tenderize the chicken during the slow cooking process. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour the pineapple juice, ensuring you scrape out any pulp that may have settled at the bottom. This pulp adds extra flavor and texture to the sauce.
Next, add the soy sauce to the bowl. The soy sauce contributes a savory, umami depth that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar. It also aids in browning the chicken as it cooks.
Now, introduce the barbecue sauce. This is where you can truly personalize the recipe. Use your favorite brand and flavor of barbecue sauce to tailor the dish to your preferred taste. A smoky, hickory-flavored barbecue sauce will add a robust, smoky undertone, while a sweeter, molasses-based barbecue sauce will enhance the overall sweetness.
Finally, measure out the packed brown sugar and add it to the bowl. Brown sugar adds a deeper, more complex sweetness than white sugar, with hints of caramel and molasses. The brown sugar also helps to thicken the sauce slightly as it cooks.
Using a whisk or a fork, thoroughly combine all the ingredients in the bowl. Continue stirring until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and the sauce is smooth and homogenous. This ensures that the sweetness is evenly distributed throughout the chicken and pineapple. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken for the Crockpot
Choose your preferred cut of chicken: boneless, skinless chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken breasts tend to be leaner and cook more quickly, while chicken thighs are more forgiving and remain more moist during the slow cooking process. If using chicken breasts, you may want to consider pounding them slightly to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer at the bottom of your crockpot. Ensure the chicken pieces aren’t overlapping, as this can prevent them from cooking evenly. If you are using a smaller crockpot, you may need to trim the chicken slightly to fit comfortably.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Sauce, and Pineapple
Pour the prepared pineapple BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Use a spoon or spatula to ensure that all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in the sauce. The sauce should completely cover the chicken.
Next, add the drained pineapple chunks to the crockpot. Distribute the pineapple chunks evenly over the chicken and throughout the sauce. The pineapple will infuse the chicken with its sweet and tangy flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the savory barbecue sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Cover the crockpot tightly with its lid. This will help to trap the moisture and heat, ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.
Cook the chicken on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The exact cooking time will depend on your crockpot and the size of the chicken pieces. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Shred (Optional) and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, you have the option to shred it for a pulled chicken texture. Using two forks, gently pull apart the chicken into shreds within the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce, ensuring that it is thoroughly coated. This creates a delicious, saucy pulled chicken that is perfect for serving in sandwiches or over rice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a winner for several reasons:
- Effortless: It’s a true “dump and go” recipe. Minimal prep time and the slow cooker does all the work.
- Flavorful: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory barbecue sauce creates a delicious and balanced flavor profile.
- Tender: Slow cooking ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and juicy.
- Versatile: It can be served in countless ways – over rice, in sandwiches, on salads, or with a side of vegetables.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will love the sweet and savory flavors.
- Easy Cleanup: One-pot cooking means less dishes to wash!
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5 (Very Easy)
- Flavor: 5/5 (Excellent)
- Likelihood to Make Again: 5/5 (Will Definitely Make Again)
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve the chicken over steamed white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Sandwiches: Use the shredded chicken to make delicious BBQ chicken sandwiches on buns or rolls. Top with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.
- Salads: Add the chicken to a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad toppings. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or ranch dressing.
- Tacos or Wraps: Use the chicken as a filling for tacos or wraps. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite taco toppings.
- Pizza Topping: Use the shredded chicken as a pizza topping. Combine it with pineapple chunks, red onions, and mozzarella cheese for a Hawaiian-inspired pizza.
- Side Dishes: Serve the chicken with a side of coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or mashed potatoes.
Tips:
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use Frozen Chicken: You can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by removing the chicken and simmering the sauce on high heat in the crockpot for 15-20 minutes, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables to the crockpot, such as sliced bell peppers, onions, or carrots. Add them during the last 2-3 hours of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Customize the Barbecue Sauce: Experiment with different flavors of barbecue sauce to find your favorite combination.
- For a smoky flavor: add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 4-6 hours Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Estimated):
(Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: 30-40 grams
- Sodium: 500-700 mg
Conclusion:
This Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a versatile and delicious recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights. Its simplicity and flavorful results make it a family favorite. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs are recommended for their convenience and even cooking, you can certainly use other cuts of chicken. Bone-in chicken pieces, such as drumsticks or bone-in thighs, will add even more flavor to the sauce. However, keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked and tender. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and always use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q2: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Follow the same preparation steps, combining the sauce, chicken, and pineapple in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. The chicken will cook much faster in the Instant Pot, making it a great option when you’re short on time.
Q3: What if I don’t have pineapple chunks? Can I use crushed pineapple or pineapple tidbits?
A: You can certainly substitute crushed pineapple or pineapple tidbits for pineapple chunks. Crushed pineapple will result in a slightly smoother sauce, while pineapple tidbits will provide a similar texture to pineapple chunks but in smaller pieces. Use the same amount of crushed pineapple or pineapple tidbits as you would pineapple chunks (20 oz can, drained).
Q4: How long can I store leftover Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?
A: Leftover Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. You can reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. Ensure the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
Q5: Can I freeze this recipe for later?
A: Yes, this recipe freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. The Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
