This Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a tasty mix of chicken, sweet pineapple, and a splash of soy sauce. It’s like a tropical party in your slow cooker!
Cooking it in the crockpot means you can just toss everything in and forget about it for a while. I love serving it over rice—it’s a meal that’s simple and leaves you smiling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are great for this recipe because they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor and tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Pineapple: Fresh is ideal for its vibrant taste, but canned works too! Just be sure to drain it well. If you’re avoiding pineapple, mango chunks can be a delicious substitute, offering a similar sweetness.
Soy Sauce: I like regular soy sauce, but you can use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake. Alternatively, tamari is a good gluten-free option that provides a similar flavor.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a hint of molasses. Dark brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor. If you need a substitute, honey or agave can work in smaller amounts, but taste as you go since they are sweeter.
How Do I Make Sure My Orange Chicken is Tender and Flavorsome?
The key to tender chicken in a crockpot is cooking it low and slow. This helps to break down the meat and infuse flavors. Ensure you don’t overcook it, as that can lead to dry chicken. Here’s how to do it:
- Set your crockpot on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the heat in.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer – chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- If you like thick sauce, remove the chicken after cooking and thicken it by mixing cornstarch with water. This simple step makes all the difference!
Cook the sauce until bubbly before adding the chicken back. This way, everything gets well-coated in that yummy sauce!
Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Ingredients for Thickening:
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions and sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total cooking time is about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Prep time is around 10 minutes, making it a super easy meal. Just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. It’s easy—just lay them flat and make sure they’re not overlapping too much.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger (or fresh), and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Pour the Magic Over the Chicken:
Pour the sauce you just mixed over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully covered. Then, add the pineapple chunks on top of the chicken—this will add wonderful flavor!
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot with its lid, and set it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Cook it until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (it should reach at least 165°F or 75°C).
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce is thick and bubbly.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the crockpot and spoon the thickened sauce over it, making sure it’s well coated. Now, you’re ready to serve!
7. Enjoy:
Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like a little extra flair. Enjoy your delicious tropical feast!
Bon appétit! Your Hawaiian crockpot chicken is waiting to bring a smile to your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it thoroughly first to ensure even cooking. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight, or use the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, orange juice works as a great substitute, providing that sweet and tangy flavor. You can also use a mix of apple juice and a splash of vinegar to mimic the sweetness and acidity of pineapple juice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Adding a bit of water to the sauce during reheating can help keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine them in the crockpot the next day and adjust cooking times accordingly. It’s a great meal prep option!
