Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken: A Tropical Twist for Your Dinner Table

If you’re looking for a meal that brings the flavors of the tropics straight to your dinner table, then look no further than Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken! With tender chicken thighs slow-cooked in a flavorful blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and spices, this recipe will become your go-to for easy weeknight meals. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning the ropes, this dish combines convenience and bold flavors in the most delightful way.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

From the sweet notes of pineapple juice to the savory depth of soy sauce, this chicken dish has all the elements of a perfect dinner! The aroma alone will make your mouth water, and when it’s done, you’ll have a meal that’s anything but ordinary. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe – perfect for feeding a crowd or for prepping easy leftovers.

This dish is:

• Effortless to prepare: A simple dump-and-go crockpot recipe.
• Packed with flavor: Sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite!
• Nutritious: Filled with lean protein and colorful vegetables.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead, and enjoy it all week long.

So, let’s dive into this tropical-inspired chicken recipe that will make you feel like you’re on vacation with each bite!

this Recipe

What Does Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Taste Like?

Imagine the sweetness of juicy pineapples paired with the umami richness of soy sauce, all mellowed with a touch of honey and spice. The chicken, after hours of slow cooking, becomes so tender it practically falls apart. Bell peppers and onions add a slight crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce. Every bite is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and just a bit of heat from the ginger and garlic.

Benefits of Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Besides being incredibly delicious, there are several reasons why this recipe is worth making:

• Minimal Prep Time: It only takes 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and then the crockpot takes care of the rest.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Whether you’re cooking on low or high, you can leave this dish alone while it cooks.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Made with lean chicken thighs, nutrient-dense bell peppers, and natural sweeteners like honey and pineapple juice.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is mild and appealing to both adults and kids alike.

Now, let’s gather everything you need to make this delicious crockpot chicken.

Ingredients for Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, perfect for slow cooking.
• 1 cup pineapple juice – Adds sweetness and a tropical flair.
• ½ cup soy sauce – Provides that savory umami flavor.
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed – Balances the tang with a subtle sweetness.
• ¼ cup honey – Natural sweetness with a bit of stickiness.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic – Adds depth and a little zing.
• 1 tsp ground ginger – For warmth and spice.
• ½ tsp black pepper – A bit of heat to complement the sweetness.
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) – Adds color and a fresh crunch.
• 1 cup diced onion – For added flavor and texture.
• Cooked rice – Serve as a base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Chopped green onions – A fresh garnish for a pop of color and flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Crockpot/slow cooker: The star of the show!
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping the vegetables and chicken.
• Tongs or forks: To shred the chicken once cooked.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the bottom of the crockpot. No need to pre-cook or brown them – just lay them flat, ready to absorb all the delicious flavors!

2. Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well combined.

3. Combine in the Crockpot

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Next, add the diced bell peppers and onions, and give everything a quick stir to ensure the veggies and chicken are coated in that flavorful sauce.

4. Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know the chicken is done when it becomes fork-tender and easy to shred.

5. Shred and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Let the chicken soak up more of the sauce as it breaks apart. Serve it over a bed of cooked rice, and garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of flavor and color.

Tips for Making Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the honey or brown sugar slightly.
• Try different bell peppers: Use a variety of colors (red, yellow, green) for a beautiful presentation and slightly different flavors.
• Crispier edges: After shredding the chicken, you can broil it in the oven for a few minutes to get a crispy texture on top.
• Add pineapple chunks: For even more tropical flavor, toss in some pineapple chunks about 30 minutes before the chicken is done cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer white meat, though thighs will remain juicier after slow cooking.
• Gluten-free option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Vegetable boost: Add other veggies like carrots, snap peas, or zucchini to make it even more nutritious.
• Spice it up: If you want more heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

What to Serve with Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

While serving this chicken over rice is classic, you can also get creative:

• Quinoa or couscous: For a lighter option.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb alternative.
• Steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies: For added greens.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the cooked and shredded chicken (without rice) in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by cooking on high pressure for 10 minutes with a natural release for 10 minutes.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Just add an extra hour of cooking time on low, or 30 minutes on high, if using frozen chicken.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough!

How do I thicken the sauce?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce at the end. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Crockpot Favorite!

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and flexibility. With its delicious combination of sweet and savory, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving it over rice or alongside some steamed veggies, you’ll have a satisfying meal that feels like a tropical escape.

Don’t forget to try other tropical-inspired recipes like our Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken or Mango Salsa Chicken. Let’s get cooking!

And hey, if you try this recipe, be sure to leave a review or snap a photo and share it on Pinterest! We’d love to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 9g
• Sugar: 23g

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