Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

There’s something about the combination of sweet and savory flavors that makes this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken irresistible. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a delicious meal that’s already prepared. The crockpot does all the hard work, blending the flavors of chicken, pineapple, and a savory sauce to create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot in a single layer.

1. Make the Sauce

• In a medium bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar (if using), garlic, and ginger until well combined.

1. Add Pineapple and Sauce

• Pour the pineapple chunks over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Then, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and pineapple.

1. Cook

• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.

1. Shred the Chicken

• Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat with the sauce.

1. Serve

• Serve the Sweet Hawaiian Chicken over steamed rice or quinoa, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Variations & Tips

• Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, onions, or snap peas to the crockpot for extra vegetables and color.
• Pineapple Substitution: If you don’t have canned pineapple, you can use fresh pineapple chunks.
• Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Make it a Freezer Meal: Assemble the ingredients in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the cooking instructions.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They are often more flavorful and tender.

What can I serve with Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy the tender, flavorful chicken with a sweet and savory sauce that’s simply irresistible!