Crockpot Pineapple Chicken
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful
Introduction
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a flavorful meal that the whole family will love.
History
The origins of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Pineapple is a popular ingredient in Hawaiian cooking, and when paired with chicken, it creates a tasty and tropical dish.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, split, skinned, and deboned
- pepper
- paprika
- 20 oz (567 g) unsweetened pineapple tidbits, drained
- 2 tbsp dijon-style mustard
- soy sauce
- 1 minced garlic clove
How to prepare
- Arrange the chicken in a crockpot.
- Sprinkle it with pepper and paprika.
- Mix soy sauce, pineapple, and mustard together; pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Add minced garlic.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Variations
- Add bell peppers and onions to the crockpot for added flavor and texture.
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer and more tender dish.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to drain the pineapple tidbits before adding them to the crockpot to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce, pineapple, and mustard mixture for a few hours before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry towards the end of the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken can be served over rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Cooking Techniques
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is cooked using the slow cooking method, which allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use canned pineapple chunks instead of pineapple tidbits.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for the soy sauce.
- Dijon mustard can be replaced with whole grain mustard or honey mustard.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the sauce mixture and marinate the chicken in advance to save time on the day of cooking. Simply store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Crockpot Pineapple Chicken with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve it in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken pairs well with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a crisp cucumber salad. For a complete meal, serve it with a refreshing tropical fruit salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Crockpot Pineapple Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain soy and wheat allergens.
Summary
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a balanced meal.
Summary
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. With a combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary at her cozy farmhouse. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most incredible aroma - sweet and savory, with a hint of tanginess.
Mary was bustling around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and mixing ingredients in a large crockpot. She explained that she was making her famous Crockpot Pineapple Chicken, a dish that had been passed down in her family for generations. I watched in awe as she effortlessly put everything together, layering the chicken with pineapples, bell peppers, onions, and a delicious sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar.
As the chicken cooked slowly in the crockpot, the flavors melded together, creating a mouthwatering aroma that filled the entire house. Mary explained that the key to this recipe was patience - allowing the chicken to simmer for hours until it was tender and juicy, and the sauce thickened to a rich, sticky glaze.
After several hours of anticipation, Mary finally dished out the Crockpot Pineapple Chicken onto plates, garnishing it with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The first bite was pure bliss - the chicken was succulent and flavorful, the pineapple added a touch of sweetness, and the sauce was the perfect balance of savory and tangy.
I was hooked from that moment on. I begged Mary for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. I couldn't wait to try it out in my own kitchen and share it with my family.
The next weekend, I gathered all the ingredients for the Crockpot Pineapple Chicken and set to work. As I chopped the vegetables and mixed the sauce, I couldn't help but think back to that day in Mary's kitchen and the wonderful memories we had shared.
I carefully layered the chicken with the pineapples, bell peppers, and onions in the crockpot, making sure to pour every last drop of the sauce over the top. I set the timer and let it simmer away, the tantalizing aroma wafting through the house and making my mouth water in anticipation.
Hours later, when it was finally time to dig in, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. The chicken was tender and juicy, the pineapples had caramelized beautifully, and the sauce was thick and luscious. It was a masterpiece, just like Mary's.
From that day on, Crockpot Pineapple Chicken became a staple in my household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a cozy night in with my husband. It never failed to impress, and I loved sharing the recipe with anyone who asked.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. Sometimes I'll throw in a handful of cashews for crunch, or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat. But the core of the recipe remains the same - tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and a savory sauce that is simply irresistible.
As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Mary's kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought joy and comfort to countless meals shared with loved ones, and I know it will continue to do so for generations to come.
So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and easy dish to feed a crowd, look no further than Crockpot Pineapple Chicken. It may just leave a lasting impression on you, just like it did for me all those years ago. Happy cooking!
Categories
| Cathy's Recipes | Chicken Breast Recipes | Crockpot Recipes | Dijon Mustard Recipes | Pineapple Recipes |