Tangy Chicken
Description
This slow-cooked chicken dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in a rich sauce made from pineapple-orange juice concentrate, ketchup, and lemon juice. Aromatic spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves infuse the meat with warm, comforting notes. The tapioca thickens the sauce naturally, creating a glossy glaze that coats every bite. Ideal for busy weeknights, this meal requires minimal active effort while delivering maximum flavor. Serve over fluffy couscous or rice for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner that brings home-style comfort to your table.Ingredients
Directions
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Thaw the frozen pineapple-orange juice concentrate.
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In a small bowl, combine the thawed juice concentrate, ketchup, and lemon juice to make the sauce base.
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Pour about half of the sauce mixture into the bottom of a slow cooker.
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Add the tapioca to the cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
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Place the cinnamon stick, allspice berries, and cloves into a piece of cheesecloth.
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Tie the cheesecloth securely to create a spice bag.
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Add the spice bag to the slow cooker.
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Place the skinned, cut-up chicken pieces into the slow cooker.
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Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the chicken.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 10-12 hours or on HIGH for 4 1/2-5 1/2 hours, until the chicken is tender.
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Discard the spice bag.
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Transfer the chicken pieces to a serving platter.
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Skim the fat from the surface of the sauce.
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Serve the chicken and sauce over hot cooked couscous.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 50.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 13.0g5%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 10.0g
- Protein 0.5g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, use a 6-quart slow cooker. If your chicken pieces are very large, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
You can substitute fresh orange juice concentrate for the frozen variety if preferred. Ensure it is thawed completely before mixing.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans to balance the sweetness of the sauce.