Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that the whole family will love, nothing beats the simplicity and flavor of Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy pineapple orange barbecue sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Set it and forget it in your slow cooker, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please.

Reasons to Love Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken

There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for this Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken. Here are just a few:

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple, orange, and barbecue sauce creates a delightful harmony of sweet and savory flavors.
• Healthy Ingredients: With skinless chicken and a homemade sauce, you’re nourishing your body while satisfying your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, on a bun, or over a salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for lunch leftovers.

The Essentials

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather all the essentials you’ll need for this delicious dish:

• 4 pounds bone-in chicken pieces: Skin removed for a healthier option.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
• 2 large cloves garlic: Minced for aromatic flavor.
• 3/4 cup natural ketchup: The base of the barbecue sauce.
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade: Use sugar-free for a lower calorie option.
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple: Fresh or canned, either works well.
• 2 tablespoons honey: For a touch of natural sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A classic ingredient for depth of flavor.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons brown mustard: Adds a slight tanginess.
• 2 teaspoons salt: To enhance the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning.
• 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce: Optional, for those who like a little heat.
• 1/4 cup cornstarch: To thicken the sauce.
• 1/4 cup water: To dissolve the cornstarch.

Setup & Equipment

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following equipment:

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients.
• Whisk: For mixing the cornstarch and water.
• Serving Spoon: For serving the delicious chicken.

Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken, Made Easy

Now, let’s get to the exciting part—making the Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken! Follow these simple steps for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by removing the skin from the bone-in chicken pieces. This not only makes the dish healthier but also allows the flavors of the sauce to penetrate the meat better. Place the chicken pieces in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Orange Barbecue Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, natural ketchup, orange marmalade, crushed pineapple, honey, Worcestershire sauce, brown mustard, salt, black pepper, and sriracha sauce (if using). Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Sauce to the Chicken

Pour the pineapple orange barbecue sauce over the chicken pieces in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily pull away from the bone when it’s done.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the water. Pour this mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and stir well. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Return the chicken to the slow cooker, making sure it’s well coated with the thickened sauce. Serve hot, and enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides!

In-Season Swaps

If you want to tailor this recipe to the seasons or simply use what you have on hand, consider these swaps:

• Pineapple: In the summer, use fresh pineapple for an even brighter flavor.
• Onion: Sweet onions or shallots can replace regular onions for a milder taste.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes for honey.
• Mustard: Dijon mustard can add a nice twist in place of brown mustard.

Author’s Commentary

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken has quickly become a family favorite in our household. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ease. You can easily customize the spice levels or even add other ingredients like bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s cooking is simply irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table!

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chicken in the sauce for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This dish also makes for a great meal prep option—simply portion it out for lunches throughout the week!

Questions People Ask

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken can be used, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be shorter. Check for doneness after about 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and chicken the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, just add everything to the slow cooker and let it cook while you’re away.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it on buns for a delicious BBQ chicken sandwich!

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to easily pull apart with a fork.

The Takeaway

Slow Cooker BBQ Pineapple Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The fusion of sweet and savory flavors, combined with the tender fall-off-the-bone chicken, makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a hassle-free, delicious dinner that your whole family will love!