This Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a crowd-pleaser! With tender chicken soaked in a sweet and tangy sauce, it’s perfect for any meal. Plus, it cooks itself while you relax!
I love serving it over rice with some veggies for a colorful plate. It’s like a mini Hawaiian vacation on a plate—minus the sunscreen! 🌺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy and cook well in the crockpot. If you’re looking for a twist, try chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Pineapple Juice: A must for that sweet flavor! If you don’t have it, orange juice can add a different but delightful taste. Just adjust the sugar level as needed.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos are a great gluten-free option that gives a similar taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup for a natural option. Just use a bit less since they’re sweeter.
Vegetables: Bell peppers add color and crunch. If you prefer or have other veggies on hand, try snap peas or broccoli for variety.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in the crockpot is all about timing and moisture. Here’s how to keep it tender:
- Keep the chicken breasts whole to maintain moisture. Cutting them in pieces might make them dry out.
- Make sure the chicken is covered by the sauce. This helps lock in moisture as it cooks.
- Don’t overcook! Stick to the recommended cooking times, and your chicken will come out juicy and tender.
Check for doneness by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is a great tool to have!
Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then you let your crockpot do the work! Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. You’ll have a hearty meal ready with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the crockpot. This is where all the magic happens!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This sweet and tangy mixture will be the star of your dish!
3. Combine in Crockpot:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring all the chicken is coated. Next, add the drained pineapple chunks and sliced bell peppers on top to give it extra flavor and color.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. Your goal is tender, flavorful chicken that is easy to pull apart with a fork.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the crockpot and stir gently to combine. This will help thicken the sauce to a deliciously sticky texture.
6. Finish Cooking:
Recover the crockpot and let it continue cooking for the remaining time. Once cooked, your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serve and Garnish:
It’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve the sweet Hawaiian chicken over cooked white rice. If you want to add a little extra flair, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Dig in and enjoy the tropical taste! 🌺
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to cook it on high for about 4 hours instead of the usual 3 hours on low. You want to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and refrigerate the ingredients, then cook them in the crockpot the next day. Just be sure to keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to cook to maintain freshness.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with cooked white rice or jasmine rice. For a healthier option, try serving it with steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad to lighten things up.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
