Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy days. Tender chicken simmered in a pineapple-soy sauce creates a delicious tropical twist that pairs well with rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. (.9kg) chicken tenderloin chunks
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the chicken tenderloin chunks in the crockpot in an even layer.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix the pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce until the sugar is dissolved.
- Step 3: Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Step 5: Stir the chicken gently before serving to mix the sauce. Serve warm with rice or steamed vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or pineapple chunks in the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and texture.
- Substitute chicken thighs for a richer taste and juicier texture.
- For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time and confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I serve with sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to complement the sweet and savory flavors.
PrintSweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe combines tender chicken tenderloin chunks with a deliciously sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, this dish delivers bold island flavors with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lb. (0.9 kg) chicken tenderloin chunks
Sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken tenderloin chunks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and allows the sauce to adhere better.
- Mix the sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is well blended.
- Combine chicken and sauce in crockpot: Place the chicken tenderloins into the crockpot. Pour the pineapple sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated evenly.
- Cook on low: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Final touches: Once cooked, give the chicken a gentle stir to mix the sauce before serving. Optionally, serve over steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions or pineapple chunks for an extra tropical touch.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken and reduce the sauce on the stovetop over medium heat until desired consistency.
- Adding minced garlic or ginger to the sauce can enhance the flavor profile.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa and a side of steamed vegetables.
- To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of tenderloins for a juicier texture.
Keywords: Hawaiian chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker recipe, pineapple chicken, sweet chicken dish, easy crockpot meal
