Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Say aloha to a dinner that’s as effortless as it is delicious! This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is packed with tropical flavors that will transport you straight to the islands. With tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a sweet-savory sauce, this dish is the perfect combination of comfort and vacation vibes—all without leaving your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy days when you want something flavorful but don’t have time to fuss over the stove. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with a blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar for a dish that’s both satisfying and light.
I love how versatile this dish is. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even with a side of sautéed veggies for a complete meal. It’s colorful, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for family dinners or even entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 2 lbs chicken breast (cut into chunks)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ cup chicken broth
For the Add-Ins:
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks (drained)
How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Place the chicken breast chunks in the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base for all the delicious flavors to soak into.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Stir well until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all the pieces are evenly coated.
- Add the chopped red bell pepper and drained pineapple chunks on top. These add a pop of color and a fresh, tropical crunch to the dish.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the sweet and savory sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cooking time is complete, give everything a gentle stir and serve the chicken hot. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a side of roasted vegetables.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- Use Fresh Pineapple (Optional): If you have access to fresh pineapple, feel free to use it instead of canned for an extra burst of flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: The garlic adds depth to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you’d like a thicker sauce, remove the chicken at the end of cooking and stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Let it cook for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to refresh the sauce.
Freezing:
- This dish freezes well! Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is incredibly versatile—here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Add Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Switch the Protein: Swap the chicken for pork tenderloin, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in carrots, snap peas, or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.
- Coconut Twist: Replace half the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical variation.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may increase the cooking time slightly. Be sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. For a lower-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice.
3. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes! Sauté the chicken in a large skillet, then add the sauce and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
4. How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
Tropical Comfort in Every Bite
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the ultimate blend of ease and flavor. It’s a dish that feels like a mini getaway, bringing the bright, tropical tastes of pineapple and soy sauce to your dinner table.
Whether you’re serving it for a quick family meal or a laid-back weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab your slow cooker, toss in a few simple ingredients, and let the magic happen—no plane ticket required! 🌴🍍
