Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

Category: Chicken Recipes

This Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a tasty dish with tender chicken, a fruity pineapple sauce, and hints of soy and ginger. It’s super simple—just toss everything in the crockpot!

This dish makes dinner a breeze! I love coming home to the smell of sweet chicken, and it’s great over rice. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! 🍍

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they stay tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, thighs can work too, offering a bit more flavor.

Pineapple Juice: Using juice from canned pineapple gives a fresh taste, but you can substitute with fresh pineapple juice or even coconut water if you’re feeling adventurous!

Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives good flavor, but if you’re aiming for low-sodium, there are many brands available that work just as well. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar can be great substitutes.

Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger adds depth, but if you have ground ginger, that works too! Use about half as much since it’s more concentrated.

How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?

The key to tender chicken in the crockpot is cooking it low and slow. This allows the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors from the sauce!

  • Layer the chicken in a single layer on the bottom, which helps it cook evenly.
  • Make sure the sauce completely covers the chicken for maximum flavor.
  • If using a higher heat setting, check earlier to avoid overcooking—chicken can dry out quickly!
  • For thicker sauce, use a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with water and stir it in towards the end of cooking.

Trust me, taking these steps will lead to juicy, flavorful chicken that everyone will love!

Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably from canned pineapple)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice (for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will need a cooking time of 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for set-and-forget weeknight dinners!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Lay them in a single layer so they cook evenly.

2. Make the Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so the flavors meld together beautifully!

3. Combine Everything:

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Then, sprinkle the drained pineapple chunks on top for added sweetness and crunch!

4. Cooking Time:

Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

5. (Optional) Thicken the Sauce:

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and pineapple chunks onto a plate. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the crockpot, turn the heat to high, and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.

6. Serve and Garnish:

Return the chicken and pineapple to the sauce once it has thickened. Serve the Sweet Hawaiian Chicken over cooked rice, and don’t forget to sprinkle some sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for the perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy your sweet and savory Hawaiian crockpot chicken! It’s sure to be a hit!

Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to cook them on high for about 4-5 hours instead of low. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better as they sit! To reheat, microwave or gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can I Customize the Sauce?

Absolutely! You can add some heat by including crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha. For a tropical twist, try adding some orange juice or coconut milk. Adjust the sweetness and salty flavors to your preference!

What Can I Serve This Dish With?

This dish goes beautifully over cooked rice, but you can also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

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