PERFECT SWEET HAWAIIAN CROCKPOT CHICKEN

Imagine biting into juicy, tender chicken glazed in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, a taste of the tropics without even leaving your kitchen! If you’re craving an easy, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself, look no further than this incredible Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe – I promise it will become a family favorite!

Let’s Gather Our Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish. Don’t worry, I’ve also included substitutions and tips to make sure it turns out perfect every time!

Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Sweet and Tangy Sauce

• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained: The juice is key to the sauce, so don’t drain it!
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization. Light or dark brown sugar works.
• ⅓ cup soy sauce: Balances the sweetness and adds umami. Use low-sodium to control the salt.
• ¼ cup ketchup: Provides a tangy base.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity and brightens the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that savory garlic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.

For Serving (Optional)

• Cooked rice: A classic pairing.
• Chopped green onions: For garnish and a fresh bite.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Adds texture and nutty flavor.
• Pineapple chunks: For extra pineapple goodness!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as Aloha!

This recipe is incredibly simple, which is why I love it so much. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the crushed pineapple (undrained), brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure there are no lumps of cornstarch.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and easily shreddable.

Step 4: Shred and Thicken (If Needed)

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
3. If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the crockpot, stir well, and cook on high for another 15-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. *Tip: Sometimes the sauce is perfect without thickening! Check it first.*

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken over cooked rice.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pineapple chunks, if desired.

Troubleshooting & Tips for Success

Even though this recipe is easy, here are a few common issues and how to avoid them:

• Chicken is dry: This usually happens if the chicken is overcooked. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken – it should reach 165°F (74°C). Also, using chicken thighs instead of breasts can help keep the chicken moist.
• Sauce is too thin: As mentioned above, a cornstarch slurry is your best friend! Just make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the crockpot to prevent clumping.
• Sauce is too sweet: If you find the sauce too sweet, add a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
• Crockpot Cooking Times: All crockpots cook differently! Keep an eye on your chicken and adjust cooking times as needed.

Variations to Spice Things Up

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers, onions, or broccoli florets during the last hour of cooking.
• Make it Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Use Pineapple Chunks: For a chunkier texture, add a can of pineapple chunks to the crockpot along with the crushed pineapple.
• Grill the Chicken First: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken breasts before adding them to the crockpot. This adds a whole new layer of deliciousness.

What to Serve With Your Hawaiian Chicken

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even coconut rice are all great options.
• Quinoa: A healthy and protein-packed alternative to rice.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes are all delicious roasted alongside this chicken.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet and tangy chicken.
• Hawaiian Rolls: Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!

Other Delicious Hawaiian Inspired Recipes

Craving more of that tropical flavor? Be sure to check out these other amazing recipes:

• Try my Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken when you want a quick and easy baked version of this recipe.
• If you love the convenience of the slow cooker, you might enjoy Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken or the Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken for a similar easy meal.
• When BBQ season hits, Pineapple Bbq Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• For a quick sheet pan meal, try Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Bake.
• You can also try the Hawaiian Chicken Bake for another great option.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken tastes even better the next day.

• Storing: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven until heated through. Add a splash of water or pineapple juice to the chicken when reheating to prevent it from drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a passport to a tropical escape, right from your kitchen! I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think! Aloha!