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Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

A Tropical & Flavorful Meal
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Course Recipes

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

  1.  Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – They stay more tender in the slow cooker.
  2.  Add Vegetables – Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas make great additions.
  3.  Make It Spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
  4. 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.
Keyword Crockpot