Delicious Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

This sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is a tasty mix of sweet and savory. It’s made with juicy chicken cooked in a sweet pineapple sauce. It’s easy to make, needing only 5 ingredients.

This recipe is ideal for busy days because it’s both quick and simple to prepare. Whether you choose to cook it on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours, the result will be equally satisfying. Moreover, it features a lean protein base paired with a tropical flavor that is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s made in a pineapple chicken slow cooker with easy prep and simple ingredients. It’s also budget-friendly, making it great for families on a budget.

It brings tropical flavors to your table all year. Imagine enjoying a taste of Hawaii in winter. The sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and BBQ sauce make it exciting.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

It cooks in just 2-4 hours, ideal for weeknights. Just add all the ingredients to your crockpot and let it cook. You can prep it in the morning for a ready-to-eat meal when you get home.

Budget-Friendly Family Meal

This recipe is not only tasty but also budget-friendly. It uses just a few ingredients to feed your family a healthy meal. It’s a smart choice for those looking for affordable crockpot dinner ideas.

Tropical Flavors Year-Round

The mix of pineapple, BBQ sauce, and chicken is amazing. It adds tropical flavors to your meals, even in winter. Try it and take your taste buds on a trip to Hawaii.

Looking for more inspiration? Learn how to make a Big Mac Casserole

pineapple chicken slow cooker

Essential Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Success

To create a delicious Hawaiian chicken dish, you need a few essential ingredients. Notably, these simple chicken crockpot meals beautifully combine sweet and savory flavors. For instance, the mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar plays a crucial role. Additionally, the pineapple’s sweetness blends harmoniously with the savory taste of soy sauce, resulting in a truly unique and flavorful dish.

The main ingredients for this dish include chicken, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Additionally, you can enhance the flavors by adding bell peppers and onions. Specifically, using 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs results in approximately 690 kcal per serving. Moreover, the recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time and 5 hours and 30 minutes of cooking.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients and their roles in the recipe:

  • Chicken breasts or thighs: provides the main protein source
  • Pineapple juice: adds sweetness and a tropical flavor
  • Soy sauce: adds a savory and umami flavor
  • Brown sugar: balances out the sweetness and savory flavors
  • Bell peppers and onions: add crunch and flavor to the dish
simple chicken crockpot meals

These ingredients come together to make a delicious and easy-to-make dish. With just a few ingredients and basic cooking skills, you can make a tasty meal for any occasion.

IngredientQuantityRole in the Recipe
Chicken breasts or thighs8Main protein source
Pineapple juice1 cupAdds sweetness and tropical flavor
Soy sauce1/3 cupAdds savory and umami flavor
Brown sugar1/2 cupBalances out sweetness and savory flavors

Preparing Your Crockpot for Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Perfection

To achieve the best results with your Hawaiian chicken recipe, you need to set up your crockpot correctly. This involves not only selecting the appropriate temperature but also arranging the ingredients to ensure even cooking. Furthermore, for a convenient weeknight meal, you can choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or, alternatively, on high for 3-4 hours.

Start with 2 lbs chicken breasts. Add diced bacon, onions, and crushed pineapple for extra flavor. Serve it with white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

delicious hawaiian chicken recipe

Proper Temperature Settings

Cook your Hawaiian chicken at the right temperature. Cook on high temperature for 2 to 3 hours and low for 4 to 6 hours in a slow cooker. Most importantly, adjust cooking times based on the temperature of your slow cooker for the best results.

Layering Ingredients Correctly

Layering ingredients right ensures even cooking and flavor. Start with onions, then chicken breasts, followed by crushed pineapple, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce. This creates a tasty sauce for your weeknight dish.

Timing Your Cook

Timing is everything for perfect results. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This ensures your chicken is cooked and the flavors are mixed well, making it a tasty Hawaiian chicken recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

To start, cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into chunks. You can also use chicken breasts or tenderloins. Next, mix the sauce ingredients in a separate bowl. This includes 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce.

To prepare this dish, begin by placing all the ingredients together in the slow cooker. Specifically, this includes the chicken, sauce, 5 slices of cooked bacon, 1 diced green bell pepper, and a drained 20 oz. can of crushed pineapple. Afterward, cook on low for 6-8 hours or, alternatively, on high for 3-4 hours. Overall, this sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken recipe is ideal for those seeking a hands-off yet delicious meal.

Here’s a breakdown of the cooking time and temperature:

  • Cook on low for 6-8 hours
  • Cook on high for 3-4 hours
  • Internal temperature should reach 165°F

This easy slow cooker recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also convenient and perfect for busy weeknights. With the sweet and tangy flavors of the Hawaiian chicken, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again. So, go ahead and give it a try, and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken.

IngredientQuantity
Chicken2 pounds
Barbecue sauce1 cup
Soy sauce2 teaspoons
Worcestershire sauce2 teaspoons
Pineapple20 oz. can

Tips for Maximum Flavor Enhancement in Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

To make your pineapple chicken slow cooker dish even better, try a few simple tricks. Marinating the chicken in the sauce for up to 24 hours before cooking is a great idea. This way, the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce, making your dish even more tasty.

Another way to boost flavor is by thickening the sauce with a cornstarch slurry. This makes the sauce creamy and perfect for serving over rice or noodles. You can also tweak the seasoning with more soy sauce, brown sugar, or spices. The goal is to get the flavor just right for your taste.

Marinating Options

Marination of the chicken is one of the best ways to add flavor to a dish. Just for example, combining soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice would give a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors. If you want a bit more of a savory flavor, one could mix olive oil, garlic, and ginger. And of course, marinating on different ingredients would give the dish freedom to be fashioned after your really personal taste, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Sauce Thickening Techniques

To thicken the sauce, you can use a cornstarch slurry or cook it longer to reduce it. Adding a bit of flour to the sauce also works. The key is to get the sauce to the consistency you like best.

Seasoning Adjustments

Feeling shy to twist the seasoning toward your taste preference. Pour in more amount of soy sauce, brown sugar or spices to the sauce. Else, throw in some freshly chopped herbs; cilantro or basil add a fresh herb flavor.

TechniqueDescription
MarinatingMarinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice for a sweet and savory flavor.
Sauce ThickeningUse a cornstarch slurry or reduce the sauce by cooking it for a longer period to thicken the sauce.
Seasoning AdjustmentsAdjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce, brown sugar, or spices to taste.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

There are a few really yummy ways to serve your Hawaiian-style chicken recipe. You can serve it on top of white rice, brown rice, or cauli rice if you’re trying to keep it low-carb. Add some Hawaiian-style macaroni salad or steamed veggies to develop a full and satisfying meal.

Moreover, other serving ideas include pairing the chicken with grilled pineapple slices or wrapping it with sautéed vegetables in a tortilla. You could also incorporate it into a stir-fry along with your favorite vegetables. Alternatively, serving it alongside a tropical fruit salad or Hawaiian macaroni salad adds a refreshing touch. For a unique twist, you can shred the chicken and serve it on Hawaiian rolls with pineapple for a tasty slider option.

  • Hawaiian-style macaroni salad
  • Steamed vegetables such as green beans or asparagus.
  • Grilled pineapple slices
  • Tropical fruit salad
  • Cauliflower fried rice


These are the rough ideas to work on. Yes, your Hawaiian chicken recipe can get by quite well on its own, for it has a rich, flavor-saturated sauce. Beyond that, it can yield so many good ideas for crockpot dinners. Very versatile and useful. Additionally, it is guaranteed to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste and effortless preparation.

Side DishDescription
Hawaiian-style macaroni saladA classic Hawaiian side dish made with macaroni, vegetables, and a tangy dressing
Steamed vegetablesA light and healthy option that pairs well with the rich flavors of the Hawaiian chicken
Grilled pineapple slicesA sweet and savory option that complements the flavors of the Hawaiian chicken

Storage and Leftover Guidelines for Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

It really is very essential to store the leftovers from your weeknight crockpot chicken dish properly to keep it safe and flavorful. You can take all those leftovers and store them in an airtight container for about four days in the refrigerator. This will be good for most single busy people and families-the dish will be appreciated all the way through the week.

Furthermore, for longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. It is possible to reheat by using either microwave or stove, and if desired, add a little water or pineapple juice to keep moist. Consequently, this recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep, as it lets you cook in advance and easily reheat later.

Refrigeration Tips

Keep leftovers fresh by cooling them completely before refrigerating. Use this time to portion out individual servings. This makes it easy to grab a quick, simple chicken crockpot meal on a busy day.

Freezing Methods

Freezing requires preventing freezer burn and keeping flavors intact. Use airtight containers or freezer bags, removing air before sealing. This keeps your weeknight crockpot chicken dish delicious and satisfying, even after freezing and reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating your simple chicken crockpot meals is easy. Use the microwave, stovetop, or oven, adding water or pineapple juice if needed. Follow these guidelines to enjoy your weeknight crockpot chicken dish all week, perfect for meal prep.

Storage MethodShelf Life
RefrigerationUp to 4 days
FreezingUp to 3 months

Conclusion: Mastering Your Hawaiian Chicken Adventure

Sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken: this is easy and heavenly slow cooker recipe that brings the tropics right to your kitchen. The dish is also for someone who enjoys robust flavors but does not want to bother much with the prep work.

In addition, this sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a casual get-together, it’s sure to impress. Furthermore, you can experiment with different seasonings to customize the recipe to your liking. Truly, the possibilities are endless.

Do not forget to try this very simple slow cooker recipe and share your experience with us. Connect with other enthusiastic cooks, share precious tips, and inspire each other with new dishes. Together, we can form a nice community of sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken-loving cooks who revel in flavorful yet easy meals as a shared experience.

FAQ

What makes the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe so delicious?

The Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe is a hit because of its tender chicken and sweet flavors. It includes pineapple, soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices. The slow cooking in the crockpot mixes these flavors perfectly, making it a tropical treat.

Why is this recipe a great option for busy weeknights?

Very simple-yet-tasty weeknight recipe for busy families: throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker, walk away and wait for a delicious meal to magically appear-just on time with hardly any effort involved.

How budget-friendly is this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe?

This recipe is very budget-friendly. It uses affordable ingredients and makes a lot of food. It’s a great way to save money on meals without sacrificing taste.

Can I enjoy the tropical flavors of this dish year-round?

Yes, you can enjoy the tropical flavors of this dish all year. It’s a great way to bring Hawaii to your dinner table, even in cold months.

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sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken

Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken – A Tropical Slow Cooker Delight


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: Up to 8 hours
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple, flavorful, and family-friendly meal made with juicy chicken, pineapple, and a savory-sweet BBQ sauce. It requires only 5 ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

With a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
  • 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (honey BBQ or your favorite brand)
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional, for added depth)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 diced bell pepper (red, green, or yellow for extra color & sweetness)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a slight kick)
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger (for an extra tropical twist!)
  • ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (for smoky flavor!)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

  1. Spray your crockpot with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Place chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

  1. Pour the BBQ-pineapple mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  2. Add drained crushed pineapple and mix lightly.
  3. If using, add diced bell peppers, red pepper flakes, or grated ginger for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

  1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl.
  2. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving and let it thicken.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Shred the chicken with two forks or leave it whole.
  2. Serve over steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
  3. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or extra pineapple chunks for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

Use Chicken Thighs for More Flavor – They stay juicier than chicken breasts.
Want More Sauce? – Double the sauce ingredients for extra glaze!
Make it Spicy! – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for heat.
For a Healthier Option – Use low-sugar BBQ sauce and honey instead of brown sugar.
Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free soy sauce.

  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
  • Category: dinner
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian, Asian Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Sugar: 34g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g

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