Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Jump to Recipe

Let’s be real—some nights, you just need dinner to cook itself. Enter this Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken—a total lifesaver when life feels like a marathon (and not the fun kind with medals and cheering fans). It’s tangy, just the right amount of sweet, and so comforting that you’ll forget all about that takeout menu on your fridge. It’s also super budget-friendly—no pricey takeout bill here, just simple pantry staples coming together to make magic. The best part? Your slow cooker does the heavy lifting while you go about your busy day.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Easy Weeknight Win: Minimal prep, and your crockpot handles the rest.
Takeout Taste, Homemade Comfort: You control the ingredients, so it’s delicious and wholesome.
Crowd-Pleaser Alert: Kids love it. Adults love it. Even that picky eater who “doesn’t like sauces” might just go for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1” chunks
Sea salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup (or 8 tablespoons) cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup olive oil

For the Sauce:

½ cup brown sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup ketchup
¼ cup soy sauce
¼ cup water
1 teaspoon minced garlic

How to Make Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, water, and minced garlic until smooth. This sweet-and-tangy mixture is what makes the dish so irresistible—set it aside while you get the chicken ready.
Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch chunks, pat them dry with a paper towel, and season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch so each piece gets a nice coating. Crack the eggs, beat them, and mix them into the chicken—this helps create that light crust once you sear it.
Sear for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches (so you don’t overcrowd the pan), cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes until it’s lightly golden. You’re not cooking it through—just giving it some color and sealing in flavor.
Slow Cook the Magic: Transfer the seared chicken into the crockpot. Pour the prepared sauce over the top, making sure every piece gets a nice coat. Give everything a gentle stir. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Serve and Enjoy: While the chicken finishes cooking, make some white rice or noodles. Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, serve it over your favorite base. Sprinkle with green onions or sesame seeds if you want to get fancy. Then grab a fork (or chopsticks!) and enjoy every bite of this sweet and tangy goodness.

Tips for the Best Results

Crispy Trick: If you love crispy chicken, you can pop the cooked chicken under the broiler for 2 minutes before tossing it back in the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Toss in chunks of bell pepper or pineapple halfway through for a takeout-style twist.
Thicker Sauce? Remove the lid for the last 20 minutes to let it reduce slightly.

This recipe saved me on a week when everything felt chaotic—sports practice, last-minute work emails, and a sink full of dishes that seemed to multiply on their own. Knowing dinner was bubbling away in the slow cooker? Pure bliss.

Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken served on fluffy white rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. — Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is a flavorful, family-friendly meal that tastes just like takeout—perfect over rice!

FAQs About Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken

Can I substitute chicken thighs?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and stay extra juicy.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Prep the chicken and sauce the night before, store in the fridge, and dump everything in the crockpot in the morning.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Can I freeze it?

Yes—freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

A Cozy Dinner Worth Repeating

This Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken is proof that delicious, comforting dinners don’t have to be stressful. With its tangy-sweet sauce and tender bites of chicken, it’s a dish that’ll earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even impressing guests without the fuss. Trust me, every time you come home to that mouthwatering aroma, you’ll feel like you’ve just been handed a warm hug (and skipped the takeout bill!).

More Delicious Recipes to Try Next

Looking for more cozy slow cooker meals that save time and taste amazing? Here are some reader favorites you’ll love:

Try this tangy and flavorful Slow Cooker Orange Chicken for another easy takeout-style dinner at home.
If you’re craving pasta, this creamy Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed family hit.
For a hearty beef option, these tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are pure comfort on a plate.
Add some variety to your week with flavorful Chuck Roast Tacos—perfect for taco night without the fuss!

Loved This Recipe?

If you try this Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a review below and let me know how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more easy and comforting recipes you’ll want to make again and again!