Slow Cooker Sweet & Sour Chicken – A Colorful & Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

Looking for an easy weeknight dinner that’s bursting with flavor, bright colors, and just the right balance of tangy and sweet? This Slow Cooker Sweet & Sour Chicken is the perfect no-fuss meal that satisfies both kids and adults. Packed with juicy pineapple, crisp bell peppers, and tender chicken, all simmered in a mouthwatering homemade sweet and sour sauce — this dish will become your go-to slow cooker recipe.

 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this restaurant-style favorite in your own kitchen:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/4 cup cold water

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning lays the foundation for the sweet and sour flavor combo.

 Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Add the pineapple chunks, red, green, and yellow bell peppers, and chopped onion right on top of the chicken.

 Step 3: Make the Sweet & Sour Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Chicken broth

• Sugar

• White vinegar

• Soy sauce

• Garlic powder

Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. This sauce brings that classic sweet and tangy flavor to life!

 Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid.

• Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours

• Or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.

 Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker.

This will thicken the sauce beautifully for that classic sticky texture.

 Step 6: Final Stir and Serve

After the sauce has thickened and everything is cooked to perfection, stir everything well to coat the chicken and vegetables in the glossy sweet and sour sauce.

Serve hot over:

• Steamed white or brown rice

• Fried rice

• Cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option)

• Or even noodles

Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired!

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience with minimal cleanup

• Bright, bold flavors the whole family will love

•  Great for meal prep and leftovers

•  Naturally gluten-free (just use gluten-free soy sauce!)

•  Healthier than takeout — and budget-friendly!

 Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months.
To Reheat: Microwave or heat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

 Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sweet & Sour Chicken is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and a sauce that hits all the right sweet and tangy notes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.