Introduction
Looking for a super simple, super tasty chicken dish that the whole family will love? This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is just what you need! It’s sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. And the best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for busy days, lazy weekends, or when you just want to enjoy a tropical twist without leaving your home. The sweet pineapple mixed with tender chicken and a tasty sauce will make your mouth water. Plus, even kids will enjoy the fun, fruity flavor! Now, let’s jump into the recipe step-by-step.
Ingredients – Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this yummy dish:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (only if using cornstarch)
- Green onions or sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Process – Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Let’s walk through the cooking steps in a very easy way:
Step 1: Get the Crockpot Ready
Place your clean crockpot on the counter and plug it in. Set it to low or high depending on how fast you want it to cook.
- Low: about 6–7 hours
- High: about 3–4 hours
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Put the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of the crockpot. Spread them out so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together:
- Pineapple juice
- Brown sugar
- Soy sauce
Stir well until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce
Now, pour the sweet sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is fully covered.
Step 5: Add the Pineapple Chunks
Sprinkle the pineapple chunks on top of the chicken. This adds an extra fruity flavor and makes it more Hawaiian-style.
Step 6: Cover and Cook
Put the lid on the crockpot and let it cook.
- If cooking on low, wait about 6–7 hours.
- If cooking on high, it will be ready in about 3–4 hours.
You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is soft, juicy, and easy to pull apart with a fork.
Step 7: Optional – Thicken the Sauce
If you want a thicker sauce:
- In a small cup, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
- Pour it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Stir gently and let it cook uncovered until the sauce thickens.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your sweet Hawaiian chicken over a bed of hot white rice, brown rice, or even noodles. Sprinkle with green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sugars | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can put frozen chicken in the crockpot, but it may take a bit longer to cook. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Q2: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple works great and adds even more fresh flavor. Just make sure to use some pineapple juice (store-bought or fresh-squeezed) for the sauce.
Q3: Can I make this recipe spicy?
Sure! If you want a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.
Q4: What other sides go well with this dish?
This dish pairs well with:
- Steamed vegetables (like broccoli or snap peas)
- Coconut rice
- A light cucumber salad
Q5: Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe is a total winner. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and doesn’t need much work. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, wait a few hours, and dinner is ready! Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to make everyone happy.
With its sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and tropical twist, this recipe brings a little sunshine to your plate. Try it once, and it might just become one of your favorite go-to meals. So, what are you waiting for? Get your crockpot out and start cooking this tasty Hawaiian chicken today!
