The Best Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe Ever Made

Slow-cookers have transformed my sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken into a mouthwatering culinary adventure that takes minimal effort.

Tropical flavors dance through tender meat with surprising complexity.

Pineapple and savory seasonings create an unexpected harmony in every bite.

My kitchen always smells incredible when this dish simmers gently.

Busy home cooks appreciate meals that feel like a mini vacation without complicated preparation.

Convenience meets deliciousness in this effortless recipe that promises to become your new weeknight favorite.

Variations on Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

• Spicy Tropical Fusion: Replace sweet sauce with sriracha and add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery Hawaiian-inspired chicken.
• Coconut Lime Hawaiian Remix: Incorporate coconut milk and fresh lime juice to create a creamy, zesty version of the original recipe.
• Teriyaki Island Style: Swap current sauce with homemade teriyaki sauce, adding ginger and garlic for deeper Asian-Pacific flavor profile.
• Pineapple Barbecue Blend: Mix barbecue sauce with pineapple juice and brown sugar for a smoky-sweet chicken variation that maintains Hawaiian essence.

Pairing Ideas for Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• Tropical Beverage Blast: Pair this sweet Hawaiian chicken with a chilled passion fruit iced tea that echoes the tropical pineapple notes and cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Rice Companion Strategy: Serve over jasmine or coconut rice to amplify the Hawaiian-inspired flavors and create a harmonious base that absorbs the delicious sauce.
• Crisp Salad Complement: Create a light Asian-inspired coleslaw with rice vinegar dressing to provide a crunchy, tangy contrast to the sweet and tender chicken.
• Fruity Wine Selection: Choose a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer wine that matches the dish's sweet and savory profile, enhancing the tropical taste experience.

Storage Advice for Hawaiian Chicken Dishes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
• Transfer cooled chicken to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

• What makes Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken different from other chicken dishes?

This recipe blends sweet and savory flavors with classic Hawaiian-inspired ingredients like pineapple juice and soy sauce, creating a unique tropical-style meal that’s easy to prepare.

• Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking and adjust cooking time slightly to guarantee the chicken is completely cooked through.

• Is this dish spicy or mild?

This Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is typically mild with a sweet undertone. If you prefer more heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to customize the spice level.

Sweet Island Flavor: Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• Simplify Meal Prep: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, creating a hands-off cooking experience that saves precious time and energy.
• Customize with Ease: Personalize the dish by adding pineapple chunks, onions, and green peppers, making it adaptable to your taste preferences and kitchen creativity.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with sweet and savory flavors, this chicken recipe appeals to both kids and adults, turning mealtime into a delightful gathering.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy over fluffy rice or pair with your favorite side dish, making it a flexible meal that fits any dining style or occasion.

Ingredients for Tropical Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• Chicken Breast: A lean and tender meat that absorbs the sweet Hawaiian flavors perfectly.

• Pineapple Juice: Provides a tropical sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the overall dish.
• Brown Sugar: Creates a caramelized sweetness that complements the Hawaiian-style flavor profile.

• Garlic, Ginger: Adds aromatic and warm undertones to the chicken.
• Onion, Green Pepper: Optional ingredients that enhance the texture and provide additional layers of flavor.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and elevate the taste of the dish.

Slow Cooker Steps for Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Flavor Powerhouse

Grab your trusty crockpot and toss in the chicken pieces. You’ll want to layer in the soy sauce, giving it that umami punch.

Drizzle in the honey for sweetness, then sprinkle brown sugar to create a caramelized coating. Pour in some ketchup to add a tangy twist that’ll make your taste buds dance.

• Chicken
• Soy sauce
• Honey
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup

Step 2: Boost the Tropical Vibe

Splash in some apple cider vinegar for a zingy kick. Add garlic for depth and minced ginger for a warm, spicy undertone.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you’re craving a little heat. Mix everything together so the chicken gets completely coated in this flavor explosion.

• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Red pepper flakes

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Let the magic happen for 6-8 hours.

The chicken will become incredibly tender, soaking up all those amazing Hawaiian-inspired flavors.

Step 4: Create a Tropical Feast

When the chicken is fall-apart tender, shred it using two forks.

Optional: Toss in fresh pineapple chunks, diced onions, and chopped green peppers for extra texture and tropical flair. Serve this mouthwatering dish over fluffy white rice or alongside your favorite sides.

Tips to Capture Hawaiian Sweetness Perfectly

• Add fresh ginger or garlic for an extra layer of taste that complements the sweetness of Hawaiian chicken.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts to ensure more moisture and tenderness during slow cooking.
• Drain pineapple chunks before adding to prevent excess liquid and maintain the sauce's perfect consistency.
• Shred the cooked chicken and use leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or as a filling for wraps the next day.
• Swap soy sauce with tamari to make the recipe completely gluten-free without losing the savory flavor profile.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 37 reviews

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

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Description

Hawaiian flavors dance through this crockpot chicken, blending tropical sweetness with savory comfort. Tender chicken pieces simmered in pineapple and tangy sauce promise a delightful meal that transports you to island paradise with minimal kitchen effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 pounds chicken chunks (white or dark meat, or a mix of both)

Liquid and Sweeteners:

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1/3 cup soy sauce

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 medium can pineapple chunks
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 green pepper, chopped

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Instructions

1. Whisk together the sauce components in the crockpot, creating a vibrant Hawaiian-inspired marinade.
2. Nestle chicken pieces into the liquid, ensuring each portion is thoroughly coated with the aromatic mixture.
3. Cover and set the slow cooker to low temperature, allowing the chicken to gently simmer and absorb flavors for 6-8 hours.
4. Halfway through cooking, softly stir the chicken to distribute the sauce evenly and prevent sticking.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, introduce diced pineapple chunks, finely chopped onions, and sliced green peppers to enhance the dish’s tropical profile.
6. Check chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F to confirm complete cooking and tender texture.
7. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, allowing it to soak up the remaining succulent sauce.
8. Plate the chicken over fluffy steamed rice, drizzling extra sauce for maximum flavor impact.
9. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

• Choose bone-in or boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and richer flavor.
• Remove chicken skin before cooking to reduce fat content and create a lighter meal.
• For a gluten-free version, replace regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat that complements the sweet Hawaiian-style sauce.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 316 kcal
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 1010 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg