Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
I use my slow cooker to fix this stir-fry-like supper. Adding the onions, pineapple, and snow peas later in the process keeps them from becoming overcooked.
I use my slow cooker to fix this stir-fry-like supper. Adding the onions, pineapple, and snow peas later in the process keeps them from becoming overcooked.
- 1/4 cup water
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- hot cooked rice
- 1-1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 3 pieces
- 1 can (8 ounces) sliced water chestnuts drained
- 2 medium carrots sliced
- 1-1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips
- 1 can (8 ounces) pineapple chunks
- 1 cup sweet-and-sour sauce
- 1-1/2 cups fresh or frozen snow peas
- Carbohydrate 47.8186266970068 g
- Cholesterol 0.448000001287639 mg
- Fat 3.55489333448833 g
- Fiber 2.71880000765221 g
- Protein 6.23009334081083 g
- Saturated Fat 0.369676000238438 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (297g)
- Sodium 193.646115042662 mg
- Sugar 45.0998266893546 g
- Trans Fat 0.210668000275176 g
- Calories 246 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, saute chicken in oil for 4-5 minutes; drain.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Drain pineapple, reserving juice; set pineapple aside.
- In a 5-qt. slow cooker, combine the chicken, water chestnuts, carrots, soy sauce, and pineapple juice.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or until chicken juices run clear.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, sweet-and-sour sauce, water, and ginger until smooth.
- Stir into the slow cooker.
- Add onions and reserved pineapple; cover and cook on high for 15 minutes or until thickened.
- Add peas; cook 5 minutes longer.
- Serve with rice.
My Favorite Weeknight Slow Cooker Meal: Sweet and Sour Chicken
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can sometimes feel like an impossible task. Between work, school pick-ups, homework help, and the general chaos of family life, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cookers. They’re my secret weapon for creating flavorful and satisfying meals with minimal effort. Tonight's dinner is a prime example – my go-to Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken.
This recipe isn't just convenient; it's also incredibly versatile. I often adjust it based on what's on hand. Sometimes I add extra vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. Other times, I swap the pineapple for mandarin oranges for a slightly different flavor profile. The beauty of it lies in its adaptability. The slow cooker does all the hard work, gently simmering the chicken until it's perfectly tender and infused with the sweet and savory flavors of the sauce. The result is a dish that's both comforting and exciting, a delightful balance between familiar tastes and exciting culinary exploration.
The best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Everything goes into the slow cooker, so there are minimal dishes to wash. This is especially important on busy weeknights when the last thing I need is a mountain of dirty dishes. My family absolutely loves this recipe, and it's become a regular fixture in our meal rotation. The tender chicken, the vibrant sweetness of the pineapple, and the subtle tang of the sauce all come together to create a harmonious symphony of flavors.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Simplicity: Minimal prep work and easy cleanup.
- Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and complex taste.
- Versatility: Easily customizable with different vegetables and fruits.
- Health: A relatively healthy option compared to takeout or other quick meals.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Beyond the practical benefits, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of simpler times, of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal together. It's more than just a recipe; it's a culinary hug, a comforting ritual that brings warmth and happiness to our family's table. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary with a little bit of patience and the magic of a slow cooker. And the best thing is, the lingering aroma fills my entire house with a warm, comforting smell – a true invitation to dinner.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find it surprisingly easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. It's a guaranteed way to impress your family and friends without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. So, ditch the takeout menus and embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken. You won't regret it!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you don't have fresh snow peas, frozen ones work just as well.
- To make it a complete meal, serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy!
