If you love a balance of sweet and savory, this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe is perfect. Tender slow-cooked chicken, juicy pineapple, and a flavorful sauce make this dish a standout. Best of all, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that requires minimal effort.
This dish is simple to prepare. Just toss everything into the Crockpot and let the flavors meld together. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce, becoming incredibly tender. The pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar create a delicious caramelized glaze that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables.
Moreover, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste. For extra juiciness, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. If you prefer more color and crunch, add sliced bell peppers. Additionally, a sprinkle of sesame seeds will enhance the texture and presentation. Whether you serve it over rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps, this dish is versatile and satisfying.
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful meal, this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe is a must-try. So, let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Perfectly Sweet & Savory – A delicious blend of soy sauce, pineapple, and brown sugar.
- Versatile – Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside roasted veggies.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can pineapple chunks (with juice)
- ½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (for slurry, optional)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional for extra color and flavor)
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the Crockpot.
- Pour the pineapple chunks and juice over the chicken.
- Add soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir everything together to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the Crockpot and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Shred & Serve
- Shred the chicken directly in the Crockpot or serve whole.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside vegetables.
Notes
Pro Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – They stay more tender in the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables – Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas make great additions.
- Make It Spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Double the Sauce – For extra flavor, make a little more sauce and serve it on the side.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken pairs well with:- Steamed jasmine rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Roasted vegetables – A nutritious side to balance the sweetness.
- Lettuce wraps – A light, low-carb alternative.
- Quinoa – A high-protein grain that complements the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?Yes! Just add an extra 30-45 minutes to the cooking time. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving. Can I make this without sugar?
Yes! You can substitute honey or maple syrup, or reduce the amount of sugar for a less sweet version.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a fantastic meal for any night of the week. With tender slow-cooked chicken, pineapple-infused sauce, and a simple cooking process, it’s an easy way to bring a tropical twist to your dinner table.
Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of the islands! 🍍🍗🔥
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