Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor. The combination of sweet pineapple and smoky barbecue sauce creates a balanced, mouthwatering taste. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, meaning you can enjoy a hands-off, delicious meal any day of the week.

Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once the chicken is done, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
Serve the shredded chicken with the sauce on top. You can pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add bell peppers, onions, or even corn to the slow cooker to make it a more hearty dish.
Spicy version: Add a bit of chili powder, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
Use chicken thighs: If you prefer, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for the breasts. They will add a richer flavor and remain tender after slow cooking.
Pineapple BBQ Pork: Swap the chicken for pork loin or pork shoulder for a delicious twist on this recipe.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Make sure the chicken is in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the chicken until heated through, or warm it on the stovetop with a little extra BBQ sauce if it’s too dry. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to cook them a little longer (an extra 30-60 minutes) until they are fully cooked.

2. Can I use a different kind of fruit instead of pineapple?

While pineapple gives a specific sweet and tangy flavor, you can try using mango or peaches for a different fruity twist.

3. Can I cook this on high in the crockpot?

Yes, you can cook this on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-7 hours.

4. Can I add other spices to the sauce?

Definitely! You can add paprika, chili powder, or even cumin to change the flavor profile to your liking.

5. How do I make this recipe spicier?

You can add hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before and store it in the fridge. Just throw it into the crockpot the next day and cook as directed.

7. What sides go well with Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

8. Can I use a store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just choose a flavor you like, and feel free to mix it with other ingredients to create your perfect sauce.

9. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and remain moist after slow cooking.

10. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a delicious, easy, and versatile meal that will have your family coming back for more. The combination of tender chicken and a sweet and tangy pineapple BBQ sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. With minimal effort, you can prepare a meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the convenience of a slow-cooked dish that’s ready when you are!