Follow these easy steps to create tender, flavorful crockpot chicken:
- Add Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and minced garlic.
- Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Thicken the Sauce: Remove chicken and set aside. Whisk cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the hot sauce from the crockpot, then stir the mixture back into the slow cooker. Cook on high for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- Finish: Return chicken to the crockpot and coat with the thickened sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.
Serving and Storage
Serve Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken over steamed rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber salad.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips
- Chicken Options: Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.
- Don’t Skip Thickening: Cornstarch gives the sauce that glossy, sticky texture.
- Add Pineapple: Toss in pineapple chunks during the last hour for extra texture.
- Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce if desired.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe reheats beautifully and freezes well.
Conclusion
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe packed with tropical flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce that’s impossible to resist.
Whether you’re feeding a family or planning meals ahead, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and convenience in every bite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken?
For best results, thaw chicken first. Frozen chicken releases extra liquid and can thin the sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
Can I cook this longer?
Yes, cooking on low for up to 7 hours is fine, but avoid overcooking to keep chicken tender.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Freeze cooled chicken and sauce for up to 2 months.
What vegetables go well with this recipe?
Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or carrots pair well with the sweet sauce.