This easy sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is a winner! With tender chicken cooked in a tasty blend of pineapple juice and soy sauce, it’s like a little tropical party in your mouth!
Trust me, the sweetness from the pineapples makes it totally irresistible. I love serving it over rice so I can soak up all the delicious sauce. Yum! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here for their tenderness. You can use thighs for a richer flavor, or even tofu if you want a vegetarian option.
Pineapple Juice: Canned pineapple juice adds sweetness, but fresh juice also works well. If you’re out, orange juice can be an interesting substitute, giving it a different citrusy kick.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake. Coconut aminos are a tasty alternative too, especially for a soy-free option.
Brown Sugar: You can replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantity as honey is sweeter than brown sugar.
Pineapple Chunks: Use either canned or fresh pineapple. If using canned, rinse them to reduce extra sweetness if needed. You could also swap in mango for a twist.
How Do You Get the Chicken to Be Tender?
Achieving tender chicken is all about cooking it low and slow. When using a crockpot, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure to cover the pot well to keep moisture in.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; low for 4-6 hours will make your chicken super tender.
- Remove the chicken towards the end to thicken the sauce without overcooking.
These steps ensure that your chicken stays juicy and flavorful, perfect for serving over rice!
Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably from canned pineapple)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional, for color and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll want to let it cook in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high. It’s perfect for a hands-off meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by laying your chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This will ensure they soak up all the delicious flavors as they cook.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Whisk until everything is combined.
3. Pour & Add More Flavor:
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Then sprinkle the pineapple chunks and sliced bell peppers right on top. This adds color and extra sweetness!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and fully cooked through.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, take the chicken out and place it on a serving platter. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir this mixture into the sauce in the crockpot. Turn the heat to high and cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the chicken on the platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that extra touch. Serve it hot over cooked white rice and enjoy your flavorful sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken!
FAQ: Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, ensure you increase the cooking time. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Just remember that the sauce might need extra seasoning as the chicken releases moisture during cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture in the crockpot and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to prevent sudden temperature changes. Cook as directed from there!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in a microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or chicken broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Customize the Veggies in This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas would work well and add nutritional value and color. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables may need a longer cooking time.
