Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken has a way of transporting me straight to a sunny beach with every bite. I remember the first time I made this dish, the aroma of pineapple and savory soy sauce filled my kitchen, promising a taste of the tropics. It was a weeknight, and I needed something simple, and this Hawaiian slow cooker chicken delivered pure island magic. This Easy Hawaiian chicken crockpot recipe is now a staple in my home, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires almost no effort. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly flavorful, offering that perfect sweet and savory island taste that makes it a standout tropical slow cooker chicken recipe. You’ll be amazed at how little prep time is involved – seriously, just minutes to toss everything in the slow cooker!
- Incredible sweet, tangy, and savory flavor profile
- Super quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
- A healthy option with lean protein and fruit
- Budget-friendly ingredients that go a long way
- A guaranteed family favorite that even picky eaters love
- Effortlessly delicious, making it a fantastic tropical slow cooker chicken recipe
- Minimal cleanup thanks to the slow cooker
Ingredients for Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Gathering the ingredients for this delightful Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a breeze, and the combination truly sings with tropical flavors. The foundation of this dish is the tender chicken thighs, which soak up all the deliciousness. For the sauce, you’ll need 1 cup pineapple juice for that signature sweetness and tang, balanced by 1/2 cup soy sauce for savory depth. 1/4 cup packed brown sugar adds a caramel note, while 1/4 cup ketchup and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar contribute to the classic sweet and sour profile. I also add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for a little umami boost. Don’t forget the aromatics: 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. A pinch of 1/4 teaspoon black pepper rounds out the flavor. The star ingredient, of course, is 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained, which infuses everything with fruity goodness. This blend makes for an amazing crockpot chicken with pineapple and soy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Get ready to create some island magic with this incredibly simple Hawaiian chicken recipe for slow cooker. It’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner!
- Step 1: Start by placing about 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the bottom of your slow cooker. They’re perfect because they stay so moist and tender.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, grab a whisk and combine 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk it all together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the sauce is beautifully blended.
- Step 3: Pour this luscious sauce mixture right over the chicken in the slow cooker. The aroma already starts to hint at the deliciousness to come.
- Step 4: Now, add 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained, to the slow cooker. This is key for that authentic tropical flavor.
- Step 5: Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen. Cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, use the high setting for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fall-apart tender. This is truly the beauty of a Hawaiian chicken recipe for slow cooker.
- Step 6: If you prefer a thicker sauce, which I often do, carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water to create a smooth slurry.
- Step 7: Stir this slurry into the liquid remaining in the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking. The kitchen will smell amazing!
- Step 8: Shred or slice the tender chicken and return it to the thickened sauce. Give it a good stir to coat everything evenly.
- Step 9: Serve your incredible Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken hot! It’s absolutely divine served over fluffy white rice or alongside some steamed vegetables.
Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken
I’ve made this Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken more times than I can count, and these little tricks really elevate it. They ensure you get that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tropical every single time.
- For the deepest flavor, let the sauce marinate with the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking, if you have the time.
- Don’t skip the crushed pineapple! That undrained can adds both texture and incredible fruity flavor to your slow cooker tropical chicken.
- If you’re short on time, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs are my preference for their juicy texture.
What’s the secret to perfect Hawaiian crockpot chicken?
The real magic in this pineapple chicken crockpot recipe comes from the balance of sweet pineapple juice and brown sugar with the savory soy sauce and tangy vinegar. It’s that combination that makes it taste so authentic and delicious. For more information on balancing flavors, you can check out resources on flavor balancing.
Can I make Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can definitely prep the chicken and sauce mixture the night before. Store them together in the slow cooker insert, covered, in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the cooker and turn it on in the morning.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken?
A common pitfall is overcooking, which can make the chicken dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times. Also, make sure you don’t drain the crushed pineapple; that liquid is packed with flavor for your Hawaiian chicken dinner slow cooker. Learning about proper slow cooker usage can help prevent these issues.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Tropical Chicken
This versatile Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is fantastic served in so many ways! For a classic island experience, I love spooning it over fluffy white rice, letting the savory sauce soak in. It’s also wonderful served alongside some steamed jasmine rice and a side of tender stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. If you’re looking for something a bit different, this dish pairs beautifully with a side of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect match for a sweet and sour crockpot chicken Hawaiian vibe. You could even serve it on toasted Hawaiian sweet rolls for delicious pulled chicken sliders! For more ideas on side dishes, consider exploring dinner recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
When you dive into this delicious Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken, here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting per serving. It’s a flavorful meal that balances taste with good nutrition.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your slow cooker teriyaki pineapple chicken. For more healthy eating tips, check out resources on healthy eating guidelines.
How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
This Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is fantastic for meal prep, making it a convenient Hawaiian chicken dinner slow cooker option. Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly before storing. For refrigerator storage, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an excellent option. Ensure the chicken is completely cool, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Properly stored, your slow cooker teriyaki pineapple chicken can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator. You can reheat smaller portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. For larger batches or a more even reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or place it back into a slow cooker on the warm setting for about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
How do you make Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken?
Making Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is wonderfully simple! You just place chicken thighs in the slow cooker, whisk together a sauce of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and seasonings, then pour it over the chicken. Add crushed pineapple, cover, and cook until tender. It’s a truly effortless way to get that authentic island flavor.
What is Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken?
Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a slow cooker dish featuring chicken, typically thighs, cooked in a sweet, savory, and tangy sauce reminiscent of Hawaiian flavors. It often includes pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sometimes ingredients like ginger and garlic, creating a tropical comfort food that’s incredibly easy to prepare.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken?
You absolutely can, but I highly recommend using thighs for the best results. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay incredibly moist and tender throughout the slow cooking process. If you do use breasts, be extra careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
What are some good side dishes for Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken?
This Hawaiian chicken dinner slow cooker pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Fluffy white rice or jasmine rice is a classic choice to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers add a nice crunch and color. For a more complete tropical meal, consider serving it with coconut rice or a side of pineapple salsa.
Variations of Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! You can easily adapt this Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. If you’re aiming for a healthier version, you can swap the brown sugar for a sugar substitute and use low-sodium soy sauce. Another fun way to enjoy this is by making it into a delicious Hawaiian pulled chicken crockpot recipe; simply shred the chicken in the sauce and serve on slider buns.
For those who love a specific regional flavor, you could even try making a Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken crockpot version by adding a bit more ginger and a touch of pineapple vinegar. And if you don’t have a slow cooker, you can adapt this for the oven by simmering it in a covered baking dish at 325°F (160°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
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Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken: Amazing Taste
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes - 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a tropical comfort food that transports your taste buds to the islands with its blend of tangy, savory, and sweet flavors. This easy slow cooker recipe requires minimal preparation and delivers a rich, flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add the crushed pineapple to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the liquid in the slow cooker.
- Cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Shred or slice the chicken and return it to the sauce.
- Serve Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken hot, perhaps over rice or with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
- This Hawaiian slow cooker chicken is also delicious served in slider buns for a pulled chicken sandwich.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg