If you’re looking for a hands-off, flavor-packed dinner, this Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a winner. With tender, juicy chicken simmered in a sweet and tangy pineapple BBQ sauce, this dump-and-go recipe makes weeknight meals a breeze. Serve it over rice for a complete dinner or pile it onto buns for a tasty sandwich.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Dump-and-go: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
✔️ Sweet and tangy: Pineapple and BBQ sauce create a perfect balance.
✔️ Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
✔️ Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or buns for sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, with juice
- 1 ½ cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: thinly sliced red onion or bell pepper
- For thickening: 2 tbsp cornstarch whisked with 2 tbsp cold water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine ingredients
Place the chicken in your slow cooker. Add pineapple chunks with juice, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Optionally, add red onion or bell pepper for extra flavor.
2. Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
3. Shred the chicken
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir it into the sauce.
4. Thicken the sauce
Mix cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry. Stir into the crockpot and cook on high for 15–20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve
Serve warm over rice or on sandwich buns. Add extra pineapple or red onion for more flavor if desired.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Add heat: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Adjust sweetness: Use a vinegar-based BBQ sauce or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang.
- Sandwich option: Pile the shredded chicken onto buns with pineapple, red onion, and extra sauce for a sweet-savory sandwich.
- Meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
What to Serve With Pineapple BBQ Chicken
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- A fresh green salad
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken is perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or casual gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, sure to become a family favorite.
