Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

📝 Description:

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a deliciously simple, family-friendly meal that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with the savory notes of soy sauce and garlic. This dump-and-go slow cooker recipe creates tender, juicy chicken infused with sweet and tangy sauce—perfect served over rice or noodles for a no-fuss dinner.

🍽️ Servings:

Serves: 4–6 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours (on LOW) or 2–3 hours (on HIGH)
Difficulty: Easy

🛒 Ingredients for Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into large chunks)

• 1 cup pineapple juice (100% juice, no sugar added)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice if needed)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)

• Cooked white rice or noodles, for serving

• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

🍳 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Place chicken pieces at the bottom of the crockpot.

2. Make the Sauce:
   In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.

3. Add Veggies & Pineapple:
   Layer bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks over the chicken. Pour sauce evenly over the top.

4. Cook:

   • On LOW for 4–6 hours, or

   • On HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).

5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
   In the last 15–20 minutes, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir into the crockpot. Cover and let the sauce thicken.

6. Serve:
   Spoon over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

✅ Tips & Notes:

• Use Chicken Thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.

• Adjust Sweetness: Reduce brown sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet dish.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for 2 months.

• Don’t Overcook: Chicken breast can dry out quickly in a crockpot—check at the minimum cook time.

• Add Heat: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

🥗 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – approx. based on 6 servings):

Note: Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

🌟 Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: Great for muscle repair and satiety.

• Vitamin C Boost: Thanks to bell peppers and pineapple.

• Low Effort, Nutritious Meal: A great option for busy days that still delivers on flavor and balance.

• Customizable: Easily adapted for gluten-free or low-sodium diets.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?

A: It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot due to food safety concerns. Thaw fully before cooking.

Q: What can I serve this with besides rice?

A: Try it with:

• Quinoa

• Cauliflower rice (for low carb)

• Coconut rice

• Rice noodles or soba noodles

Q: Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

A: Yes! Use the sauté function for 2–3 minutes to sear the chicken, then cook on HIGH pressure for 10 minutes with a quick release. Thicken the sauce afterward if needed.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?

A: Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative.