Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Sweet & Savory Flavor – The combination of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a delicious balance of flavors.
- Versatile – Customize with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for added texture and taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken chunks (white or dark meat, or both)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1 medium can pineapple chunks (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
- Green pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Cut the chicken into chunks and chop any optional vegetables.
- Combine Everything – Place the chicken, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and optional pineapple chunks, onion, and green pepper in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve over rice, noodles, or with a side of vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: Up to 8 hours
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Thicker Sauce – Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Extra Flavor – Add minced garlic or grated ginger for more depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of pineapple juice if needed. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, extend the cooking time slightly.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with white or brown rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple chunks will add even more natural sweetness.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cooking on low helps keep the chicken moist. If using chicken breasts, check for doneness around 6 hours.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release before serving.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Regular soy sauce works well, but you can use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, snap peas, or baby corn are great additions.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before and store it in the fridge. Just start cooking when you’re ready.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The sweet and savory flavors make it a hit with kids. You can adjust the sweetness if needed.
Conclusion
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, this slow cooker meal is an easy way to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner without the hassle. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or veggies, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
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Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- Total Time: Up to 8 hours
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is an easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is packed with tropical flavors and pairs beautifully with rice or noodles
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken chunks (white or dark meat, or both)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar, firmly packed
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 1 medium can pineapple chunks (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken into chunks and chop optional vegetables.
- Combine Everything: In a slow cooker, add chicken, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and optional pineapple chunks, onion, and green pepper.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Thicker Sauce: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) in the last 30 minutes.
- Extra Flavor: Add minced garlic or grated ginger for depth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
