Quick & Flavorful Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

Tender chicken simmered in a delectable sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken recipe brings comfort and tropical flavors to your dinner table.

The aroma of pineapple and savory spices will instantly transport you to a sunny island paradise.

Slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that feels like a culinary vacation.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes that dance across your palate.

This effortless dish requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor.

Rich, juicy chicken absorbs the vibrant Hawaiian-inspired sauce, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love.

Dive into this easy recipe and let your crockpot do the magic of creating a memorable dinner.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken: Tropical Comfort

• Toss ingredients into the crockpot with minimal effort, creating a delicious meal without standing over the stove all day.
• Combine sweet pineapple, tangy barbecue sauce, and savory soy sauce for an exciting Hawaiian-inspired taste that transforms ordinary chicken into a memorable dish.
• Enjoy over rice, stuff into tacos, pile onto sandwiches, or serve as a standalone protein that appeals to both kids and adults with its crowd-pleasing flavor profile.
• One-pot cooking means fewer dishes to wash, making this recipe a stress-free solution for busy households and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients For Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Bliss

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The main protein source that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked with the sweet Hawaiian sauce.

• Pineapple Chunks: Adds a tropical sweetness and juicy texture to the dish.
• Red Bell Pepper, Yellow Bell Pepper: Provide color, crunch, and a mild, sweet flavor to complement the chicken.
• Green Onions: A fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor and bright color to the finished dish.

• Pineapple Juice: Creates the base of the sweet sauce and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky and sweet depth of flavor to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Brings a savory umami element to balance the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the overall sweetness and helps create a rich sauce.
• Ginger: Provides a warm, spicy undertone that complements the sweet flavors.
• Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic base to the sauce.
• Cornstarch, Cold Water: Used to thicken the sauce and create a glossy, smooth consistency.
• Sesame Seeds: A crunchy garnish that adds visual appeal and nutty flavor.

Tools To Make Hawaiian Chicken A Breeze

• Crockpot: Essential for slow-cooking the chicken and creating a rich, flavorful dish.
• Two Forks: Perfect for shredding the tender chicken after cooking.
• Medium Bowl: Used for whisking together the delicious sauce ingredients.
• Small Bowl: Helps mix cornstarch and water for thickening the sauce.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth blending of sauce ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measuring for perfect flavor balance.
• Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and garnishes.
• Sharp Knife: Needed to slice bell peppers and green onions.

Slow Cooking Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Perfection

Step 1: Settle Chicken Gently place chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of your trusty crockpot, creating a delicious foundation for your meal.

Step 2: Sprinkle Colorful Veggies Spread vibrant ingredients over the chicken:

• Pineapple chunks
• Red bell pepper
• Yellow bell pepper

Creating a tropical landscape of flavors and colors.

Step 3: Whip Up Magical Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine these fantastic flavor boosters:

• Reserved pineapple juice
• Barbecue sauce
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Grated ginger
• Minced garlic

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and harmonious.

Step 4: Drench Chicken Pour the tantalizing sauce directly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring every piece gets thoroughly coated.

Step 5: Slow Cook Cover the crockpot and let the magic happen.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken becomes incredibly tender and falls apart effortlessly.

Step 6: Transform Chicken Remove the cooked chicken and use two forks to shred it into delectable pieces.

Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot.

Step 7: Create Silky Sauce In a separate small bowl, blend cornstarch with cold water until completely smooth.

Pour this mixture into the crockpot to give the sauce a luxurious, glossy texture.

Step 8: Final Touch Stir everything together and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop rich, deep flavors.

Step 9: Plate With Flair Serve this tropical delight over fluffy rice, garnishing with:

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Prepare for a mouthwatering Hawaiian-inspired feast that will transport your taste buds to paradise!

Tips For Juicy, Flavorful Hawaiian Chicken

• Choose chicken breasts or thighs with similar sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Adjust barbecue sauce and soy sauce quantities to control sweetness and saltiness based on personal preference or dietary needs.
• Mix cornstarch with cold water to prevent lumps and create a smooth sauce consistency for better coating.
• Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat if you prefer a spicier Hawaiian chicken variation.
• Store leftover chicken in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days, making excellent meal prep or next-day lunch option.

Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Twists & Ideas

• Gluten-Free Hawaiian Chicken: Replace soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free barbecue sauce for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spicy Island Remix: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to create a heat-packed tropical flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Option: Swap rice with cauliflower rice and reduce brown sugar for a keto-friendly alternative.
• Vegetarian Tropical Delight: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit, maintaining the same sweet and tangy Hawaiian sauce base.

Bringing Hawaiian Chicken To The Table

• Tropical Luau Plate: Spread the sweet Hawaiian chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, creating a colorful Hawaiian-inspired feast that transports you to island paradise.
• Sandwich Sensation: Pile the tender shredded chicken onto soft Hawaiian rolls or toasted hamburger buns for a quick and delicious lunch option that packs big flavor.
• Lettuce Wrap Delight: Wrap the juicy chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, refreshing meal that's perfect for a light dinner or summer gathering.
• Nachos Twist: Use the sweet Hawaiian chicken as a unique topping for tortilla chips, sprinkled with extra cheese and green onions for a fun fusion appetizer that'll wow your guests.

Keeping Hawaiian Chicken Fresh & Tasty

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
• Transfer cooled chicken to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Seal tightly, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing taste or texture.
• Place desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Pour chicken into a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of pineapple juice or water to maintain moisture. Stir gently until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

• What makes this chicken recipe Hawaiian-style?

The combination of pineapple juice, sweet barbecue sauce, and tropical bell peppers creates a classic Hawaiian flavor profile that mimics traditional island cuisine.

• Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches a safe internal temperature.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free barbecue sauce. Always check your ingredient labels carefully.

Sweet Southern Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hawaiian crockpot chicken brings tropical flavors to dinner tables across North America. Juicy chicken thighs simmer in a tangy pineapple sauce, creating a simple meal that beckons you to savor each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 lbs (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Fruits and Vegetables:

• 1 can (20 ounces / 567 grams) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

Sauces and Seasonings:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cold water

Garnish and Serving:

• Cooked rice
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Position chicken breasts or thighs evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Distribute pineapple chunks and chopped bell peppers uniformly over the chicken layer.
3. Create the sauce by whisking together pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl until thoroughly blended.
4. Generously pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetable arrangement, ensuring complete coverage.
5. Secure the crockpot lid and slow cook at 200°F for 6-8 hours on low setting or 3-4 hours on high setting, until chicken reaches complete tenderness.
6. Extract the cooked chicken and meticulously shred using two forks, then return the shredded meat back into the crockpot.
7. Prepare cornstarch slurry by combining cornstarch with cold water until smooth and lump-free.
8. Incorporate the cornstarch mixture into the crockpot, stirring thoroughly to integrate and enhance sauce consistency.
9. Continue cooking on high temperature for an additional 15-20 minutes to achieve desired sauce thickness.
10. Plate the sweet Hawaiian chicken atop steamed rice, garnishing with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for enhanced flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Chicken Selection Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking and easier shredding.
• Sauce Balance Adjust barbecue and soy sauce quantities to control sweetness and saltiness according to personal taste preferences.
• Dietary Modifications Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos to make the recipe gluten-free and reduce sodium content for health-conscious individuals.
• Temperature Control Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, preventing overcooking and maintaining tender texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg