Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

The Juiciest Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe Ever

Crafting delectable sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken brings comfort to weeknight dinner challenges.

Slow-cooking transforms ordinary ingredients into a tropical culinary adventure.

Mouthwatering aromas will soon fill your kitchen with island-inspired magic.

Tender chicken pieces absorb rich, sweet-tangy flavors that dance across your palate.

Pineapple and savory sauce create an unexpected harmony in this simple meal.

Home cooks can easily master this crowd-pleasing dish with minimal preparation.

Save Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Flavor

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the chicken will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled chicken to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen chicken maintains quality for up to 3 months.
  • Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or extra pineapple juice to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Pour chicken into a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of water or broth. Stir gently and cover, warming slowly to maintain moisture and prevent burning. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Hawaiian Chicken in Crockpot Snack Picks

  • Pair with Tropical Coconut Rice: Create a creamy coconut rice side dish that perfectly complements the sweet and tangy Hawaiian chicken, enhancing the tropical flavor profile with its rich, smooth texture.
  • Match with Crisp Passion Fruit Mojito: Blend a refreshing cocktail featuring passion fruit juice, mint leaves, and light rum to echo the recipe's Hawaiian-inspired sweetness and provide a vibrant drink pairing.
  • Serve with Zesty Mango Slaw: Prepare a crunchy coleslaw mixed with fresh mango chunks, cilantro, and a light lime dressing to add brightness and contrast to the tender, saucy chicken.
  • Complement with Macadamia Nut Garnish: Sprinkle toasted, chopped macadamia nuts over the dish to introduce a delightful crunch and authentic Hawaiian nutty flavor that elevates the overall eating experience.

Ground Beef Alfredo Dinner Takes

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening if needed.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit chunks. Drain and press tofu thoroughly before adding to the crockpot to absorb maximum flavor.
  • Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Reduce brown sugar and honey amounts to lower overall carbohydrate content.
  • Spicy Hawaiian Remix: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to increase heat level. Incorporate sriracha sauce into the marinade for an extra kick of spiciness while maintaining the tropical flavor profile.

FAQs

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can easily cook a large batch and store portions in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well and maintains its delicious flavor.

  • Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work great in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Thighs tend to be more forgiving and stay more tender during slow cooking.

  • How spicy is this dish?

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is not spicy at all. It has a sweet and tangy flavor profile from the pineapple juice, honey, and brown sugar. If you want a bit of heat, you can add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. The soy sauce contains gluten, so you’ll need to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the recipe completely gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Crockpot Chicken That Feels Like a Tropical Vacation

  • Effortless Hawaiian Comfort: Crockpot magic transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering tropical meal with minimal prep work.
  • Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Easily adjust spice levels or swap vegetables to match family preferences while keeping the delicious Hawaiian essence.
  • Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Tender shredded chicken with sweet and tangy sauce creates a universally loved dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Stress-Free Meal Preparation: Set-and-forget cooking method means you can enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken (Sweet Style) Ingredients

Protein:
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender meat perfect for slow cooking.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Pineapple Juice: Sweet tropical base for the sauce.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds depth and savory flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides rich sweetness.
  • Honey: Enhances natural sweetness.
  • Minced Garlic: Adds aromatic depth.
  • Ground Ginger: Brings warm, spicy undertone.
  • Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
Vegetables:
  • Bell Peppers, Onions: Colorful and flavorful additions to the dish.
Garnish and Serving:
  • Green Onions: Fresh, crisp topping.
  • Rice: Classic base for serving the chicken.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prep the Protein

Gently place the succulent chicken pieces into the welcoming crockpot, ensuring they’re spread out evenly for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Craft the Magical Sauce

Whisk together a symphony of flavors:
  • Tropical pineapple juice
  • Rich soy sauce
  • Caramel-like brown sugar
  • Golden honey
  • Zesty minced garlic
  • Warm ground ginger
  • Dash of black pepper

Blend these ingredients until they create a harmonious liquid gold.

Step 3: Layer the Flavor Explosion

Pour the vibrant sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece gets a loving coating. Scatter colorful bell peppers and sweet onions throughout the crockpot, mixing gently to create a beautiful flavor landscape.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and let the magic happen. On low heat, let it simmer for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken will transform into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that tells a story of tropical breezes and sunshine.

Step 5: Shred and Celebrate

Grab two forks and lovingly pull the chicken apart right in the sauce. Watch as it soaks up every drop of the incredible flavors. Serve this tropical treasure over fluffy rice and sprinkle with fresh green onions for a final burst of freshness.

Crockpot Chicken Tips for Hawaiian Sweetness

  • Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Modify the brown sugar and honey quantities to match your preferred sweetness level, balancing the tropical flavors without overwhelming the dish.
  • Prevent Dry Chicken: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts to ensure moist, tender meat that absorbs the sauce beautifully and doesn't become tough during slow cooking.
  • Expand Vegetable Variety: Experiment with additional colorful vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas to increase nutritional value and create more texture in the dish.
  • Boost Protein Options: Swap chicken with tofu or pork for different dietary preferences while maintaining the same delicious Hawaiian-inspired sauce profile.
  • Elevate Serving Styles: Transform leftovers into quick tacos, salad toppers, or sandwich fillings to maximize meal versatility and reduce food waste.
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Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe


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4.6 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hawaiian-inspired sweet crockpot chicken delivers a tropical flavor explosion with minimal prep. Succulent chicken bathed in a pineapple-infused sauce promises a delightful meal you’ll savor to the last bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 lbs (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Sauce Components:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup (85 g) honey
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable Mix:

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 cup diced onion

Serving Accompaniments:

  • Cooked rice
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Transform boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a Hawaiian-inspired culinary delight by placing them at the bottom of the crockpot, creating a tender protein foundation.
  2. Craft a vibrant tropical sauce by whisking pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until the ingredients harmonize into a smooth, fragrant liquid.
  3. Lavish the chicken with the prepared sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated, then artfully distribute diced bell peppers and onions throughout the crockpot for added texture and flavor complexity.
  4. Allow the slow cooker to work its magic, gently simmering the ingredients on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, transforming the chicken into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy.
  5. Once cooking is complete, use two forks to carefully shred the chicken directly within the rich, aromatic sauce, creating succulent, flavor-packed morsels.
  6. Present the Hawaiian-style chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, garnishing with freshly chopped green onions to add a pop of color and fresh, crisp flavor profile.

Notes

  • Opt for chicken breasts as a leaner protein alternative if you prefer less fat content.
  • Reduce sugar by using sugar-free pineapple juice or replacing brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener for a diabetic-friendly version.
  • Enhance sauce depth by adding a splash of rice vinegar or a tablespoon of sriracha for extra complexity and mild heat.
  • For gluten-sensitive individuals, swap regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to maintain the umami flavor profile while keeping the dish gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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