This Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken with a yummy sauce made from pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar. It’s a sweet treat the whole family will love!
Honestly, it’s so easy, you just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. I often serve it over rice, and it’s a hit every time—who can resist that sweet goodness? 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken thighs. Just keep in mind they might take a little longer to cook.
Pineapple Juice: Canned pineapple juice is ideal for an easy option. If you want a fresher taste, you can use freshly squeezed pineapple juice. It adds a nice zing!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to choose tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar gives a lovely sweetness. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup if you’re aiming for a healthier option, but adjust to taste since they can be sweeter.
Garlic & Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger are best for flavor. Dried versions work in a pinch, but use less—about 1/3 the amount.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Turns Out Tender and Flavorful?
To achieve tender and juicy chicken, cooking time is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Set your crockpot to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and can extend cooking time.
- Check the chicken at the lower end of the time range. It’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
After cooking, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy. Don’t hesitate to shred the chicken and mix it well with the sauce for more flavor in every bite!
Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably from canned pineapple)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated or ground
- 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice if using fresh)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions and sesame seeds
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and then you’ll let the crockpot do the heavy lifting. Total cooking time is about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Give it some time, and it will come out incredibly tender and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the crockpot in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all that delicious sauce!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger until everything is well combined. This mixture is the essence of flavor for your chicken!
3. Combine and Set:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, and then sprinkle the drained pineapple chunks on top. This adds extra flavor and a sweet surprise!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot and let it cook. Set it on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, gently remove it from the crockpot and set it aside on a plate. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.
6. Final Touch:
Return the chicken to the crockpot. Use tongs or a spoon to coat the chicken in that luscious sauce. Now it’s time to serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your sweet Hawaiian chicken over cooked white rice for a complete meal. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a delightful finish!
Enjoy your sweet and savory Hawaiian-style crockpot chicken!
FAQ for Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook the chicken for a longer time—about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, until it’s fully cooked through. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety.
What Can I Use Instead of Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute with orange juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind the taste will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before and store them in the fridge. Just layer everything in the crockpot in the morning and cook as directed. This makes for a super easy weeknight dinner!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.
