Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Name: Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 270 min
Total time: 280 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, (cut into 1 inch pieces); ¾ cup pineapple juice, (100% real juice from 6 ounce mini can); ½ cup brown sugar, (packed); ¼ cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 to 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions, (optional garnish)

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe is a taste of the tropics! Tender chicken cooked in a savory-sweet sauce infused with pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar. With just 10 minutes of prep time and minimal ingredients, this recipe delivers a delicious meal that's perfect for the whole family!

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Table of Contents

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Ingredients
Hawaiian Slow Cooker Chicken Substitutions and Additions
How To Make This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe
How to Serve Hawaii Crockpot Chicken
How To Store Leftover Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken
Why This Recipe For Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in the Crockpot Is The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
More Recipes You’ll Love
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Sink your teeth into this irresistible Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe. Juicy chunks of chicken bathed in a mouth-watering blend of tangy pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce, makes for a dish that promises to turn a weeknight dinner into a Hawaiian Aloha Feast!

We love a good slow cooker dinner and this recipe doesn’t disappoint. It’s a real set-it-and-forget-it dinner, and all you have to do is pour everything into the crockpot and wait. It’s an easy recipe that the whole family will love for its sweet and savory sauce and perfectly tender texture.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Ingredients

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken raw ingredients that are labeled

Sweet Hawaiian chicken is one of those easy meals you’ll come back to over and over again. One of the best parts of this recipe is the list of simple ingredients you need to make it.

You’ll Need:

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
¾ cup 100% pineapple juice (from 6 oz. mini can)
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1-2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions

Hawaiian Slow Cooker Chicken Substitutions and Additions

If you’re looking to put your own spin on this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe, there are simple substitutions and additions you can make to tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs.

Chicken Breast: For a change of pace, swap boneless skinless chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs. Thighs tend to be juicier and may offer a richer flavor to the dish. You can also use other cuts of white chicken meat like chicken tenders if you have them on hand.

Pineapple Juice: While the taste of pineapple is what gives this dish it’s Hawaiian essence, you can try using freshly squeezed orange juice for a citrusy twist. The acidity of orange juice can complement the sweetness of the sauce while adding a bright, refreshing flavor.

Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos can serve as gluten-free alternatives to soy sauce. Tamari offers a similar savory umami flavor, while coconut aminos will give the sauce a bit of a sweeter taste.

Hoisin Sauce: Swap hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce. It will give the dish a saltier Asian-fusion flavor, so add it slowly and adjust as necessary.

Minced Garlic: You can replace the garlic with ginger, or even just add ginger into the sauce. Finely grated ginger will add a warm, spicy taste and a fragrant aroma to the sauce.

Veggies: If you want to add vegetables to this slow cooker Hawaiian chicken, you can chop sweet onion and red, yellow, orange, or green bell pepper and add them to the crockpot along with the other ingredients.

Green Onion: Instead of green onion, you can garnish this dish with pineapple tidbits or sesame seeds.

How To Make This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

This recipe for crockpot sweet Hawaiian chicken recipe is about as easy as it gets to cook. With minimal effort, you’ll have chunks of tender chicken breast in a Hawaii-inspired, tangy sauce, and the best part is, you’ll barely have to lift a finger. Here’s how to make it:

STEP ONE: Assemble your ingredients. Get out your Crockpot and a knife and cutting board. Chop your chicken into 1-inch chunks.

PRO TIP: Try to cut your chicken into evenly sized pieces for more consistent cooking and easy serving.

STEP TWO: Make sure your Crock Pot is clean and dry, then evenly layer the pieces of chicken in the bottom of the dish.

STEP THREE: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and minced garlic.

pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and minced garlic combined in a measuring cup

STEP FOUR: Reserve ¼ cup of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken. Gently stir the mixture together so the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.

sauce added to the chicken in the crockpot

STEP FIVE: Place the lid onto the slow cooker and set the cook time to LOW for four hours. After four hours, remove the lid.

PRO TIP: This recipe is best cooked on LOW for four hours. Don’t cook the chicken all day, as the small chicken pieces will break down in the sauce.

Sweet Hawaiian Chicken cooked in a crockpot

STEP FIVE: The sauce will be thin, and this dish is best with a thick sauce. To thicken, make a slurry by adding the cornstarch to the reserved sauce. Whisk together until there are no lumps of cornstarch remaining.

PRO TIP: If your reserved sauce is cool, warm it up just slightly in the microwave (but don’t allow it to get too hot). This helps to prevent the sauce in the Crock Pot from becoming lumpy when you add the slurry.

STEP SIX: Pour the cornstarch slurry slowly into the Crock Pot, stirring constantly to combine.

STEP SEVEN: Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and, with the lid removed, cook the Hawaiian chicken for another 30-45 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions.

How to Serve Hawaii Crockpot Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to plate and serve. Spoon the Crock Pot Sweet Hawaiian Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of freshness and color. Serve immediately. If white rice is not an option, this meal also serves beautifully over brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Here are some other ways to enjoy this Sweet Hawaiian Crock Pot Chicken.

Pump Up the Pineapple: Pair the chicken with a side of grilled pineapple slices. The caramelized sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory sauce for irresistible tropical flavors.

Make Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Wraps: Transform leftovers into flavorful wraps by filling tortillas with shredded Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado. Perfect for a quick lunch or on-the-go meal.

Make It Chicken and Veggies: Serve the saucy chicken alongside sauteed vegetables, roasted cauliflower, or air fried carrots. The vibrant colors and flavors of the veggies make a delicious contrast to the sweet and savory chicken.

Hawaiian Chicken Stir Fry: Toss the Crock Pot Sweet Hawaiian Chicken with stir-fried vegetables and noodles to turn this dish into a vibrant stir-fry.

Taste the Tropics: Accompany the meal with a refreshing tropical fruit salad, or slices of juicy mangoes, ripe papayas, and tangy kiwis. The bright, refreshing flavors of fruit provide a fresh and light contrast to the rich, savory chicken. For a side that’s a bit more savory, serve with a bowl of Hawaiian macaroni salad.

Shredded Hawaiian Chicken – If you prefer, you can set whole chicken breasts in the crockpot instead of chopping the chicken into small chunks. Increase the cooking time to 6-8 hours on low. When the chicken is cooked through, remove from the Crock Pot and shred it with two forks. Add the chicken back to the slow cooker and simmer in the sauce for about five minutes, then serve on Hawaiian rolls with chunks of pineapple on the side.

Finish with a Fruity Flare: For even more Hawaiian pineapple flair, finish your dinner in style with a serving of pineapple and coconut Hawaiian wedding cake or pineapple pie.

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How To Store Leftover Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken

It’s unlikely you’ll have leftovers of this crockpot Hawaiian chicken recipe. The Hawaiian inspired flavor combination, juicy chicken breasts, and savory sauce are just too yummy! But if for some reason you don’t devour it all, make sure you keep your leftovers! They’ll be even better tomorrow.

MAKE AHEAD: If you’re short on time during busy weekdays or planning ahead for a special occasion, you can prepare Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe as directed, then allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for longer-term storage.

IN THE FRIDGE: After the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer the leftovers and any sauce to an airtight container. Leftover Hawaiian chicken will stay fresh for up to two days if stored properly in the refrigerator.

IN THE FREEZER: Leftover pineapple chicken and sauce freezes very well, so if you can’t enjoy your leftovers within a few days, make sure you freeze them. Transfer your fully cooled chicken to an airtight container or freezer-safe Ziploc bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Hawaiian chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

HOW TO REHEAT: To reheat Crock Pot pineapple chicken, transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high in 30-second intervals until heated through, stirring occasionally to help the chicken heat evenly. If you prefer, you can reheat the chicken on the stovetop. Place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a touch of water or chicken broth to thin the sauce if it’s gotten too thick.

Why This Recipe For Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in the Crockpot Is The Best

Like so many great crockpot recipes, there are plenty of reasons to love this crockpot chicken Hawaiian style recipe! With only 10 minutes of prep and a few hours in the slow cooker, it’s just about the easiest dinner you can make.

Here’s what we love about this recipe:

Tropical Flavors: One bite of Sweet Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken makes you feel like you’re enjoying dinner at a tropical resort. Juicy pineapple, savory soy sauce, and aromatic seasoning will leave you wanting more.

Family-Friendly Favorite: Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken is a family-friendly favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Kids love the sweet and tangy sauce, while adults appreciate the ease of cooking and the wholesome ingredients.

Easy Prep, Minimal Cleanup: One of the best things about this Hawaiian chicken recipe is how easy it is to prepare and clean up afterward. A few simple ingredients and minimal prep work means you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s not recommended to put frozen chicken in the slow cooker, but if you must, be sure to cook the dish for 1-2 hours more than if you were using fresh chicken.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep in mind that you may need a larger crockpot or divide the mixture between two crockpots for even cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe is not spicy. It features a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it suitable for those who prefer mild dishes.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple juice?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple juice if preferred. Juice fresh pineapple and measure out the required amount for the recipe.

Can I cook this recipe on high instead of low?

While the low setting is helpful for making sure you end up with tender, flavorful chicken, you can cook it on high for a shorter time if needed. However, keep an eye on it to be sure your chicken doesn’t become overcooked and dry.

Sweet Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is a recipe that is reminiscent of tropical cuisine with its irresistible flavors and remarkably simple preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a backyard barbecue, this sweet and savory, beyond-yummy dish is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it!

a plate of Sweet Hawaiian Chicken topped with green onions and served over white rice

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Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4 30

Total Time 4 40

Servings

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Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 inch pieces
¾ cup pineapple juice, 100% real juice from 6 ounce mini can
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons cornstarch

Garnish

1 to 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions, optional garnish

Instructions

Place the boneless skinless chicken breast pieces into the insert of a 4 to 4 ½ quart crockpot slow cooker.
In a small mixing bowl whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce and minced garlic.
Reserve ¼ cup of the sauce, then pour the remaining sauce over the chicken and gently stir to coat all the chicken pieces with the sauce.
Place the lid onto the crockpot and set to LOW for 4 hours. After the chicken has cooked for 4 hours, remove the lid.
Add the cornstarch to the ¼ cup reserved sauce and whisk until no lumps of cornstarch remain. Pour the mixture into the crockpot and stir to combine.
With the crockpot on high, and the lid removed, cook the sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken for an additional 30 – 45 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Garnish with the thinly sliced green onions.
Try to cut your chicken into evenly sized pieces for more consistent cooking and easy serving.
This recipe is best cooked on LOW for 4 hours. Don’t cook the chicken all day, as the small chicken pieces will break down in the sauce.
If your reserved sauce is cool, warm it up just slightly in the microwave (but don’t allow it to get too hot) before you make your cornstarch slurry. This helps to prevent the sauce in the Crock Pot from becoming lumpy when you add the slurry.

Notes

Try to cut your chicken into evenly sized pieces for more consistent cooking and easy serving.
This recipe is best cooked on LOW for four hours. Don’t cook the chicken all day, as the small chicken pieces will break down in the sauce.
If your reserved sauce is cool, warm it up just slightly in the microwave (but don’t allow it to get too hot). This helps to prevent the sauce in the Crock Pot from becoming lumpy when you add the slurry.

Nutrition

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This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!