- Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, ginger, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken, stir in the cornstarch slurry, and cook on high for an additional 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Serve the chicken with sauce over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. It pairs well with white rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, the chicken and sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.
Tips:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey or brown sugar to taste.
- Fresh pineapple adds brightness, but canned works well in a pinch.
- For a thicker sauce, you can also reduce it in a saucepan after slow cooking.
- Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in sandwiches or wraps.
Conclusion:
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is an easy, flavorful meal that brings tropical flair to your dinner table. With minimal prep and the convenience of slow cooking, it’s perfect for busy days while still delivering tender, juicy chicken with a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase cooking time slightly and ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function to brown the chicken first, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with a natural release.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Can I use other fruits?
Yes, mango or peach chunks can add a similar sweet and tropical flavor.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble ingredients in the crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.