This Crockpot Sweet Hawaiian Chicken recipe is a delicious mix of tender chicken, tangy pineapple, and a sweet-savory sauce that melts together perfectly in a slow cooker. It’s the kind of dish I love making on busy days because it requires minimal prep and fills the kitchen with a tropical aroma that makes my mouth water.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy this meal is to throw together — just a few ingredients and the crockpot does all the work. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful every time, thanks to the slow cooking process. It’s a family-friendly dish, perfect for dinner nights when I want something satisfying and flavorful with little fuss. Plus, it pairs well with rice, noodles, or even steamed veggies.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I start by adding the chicken pieces into the crockpot.
Then I mix together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl until combined.
I pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
I cover and cook it on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
About 30 minutes before it’s done, I stir in the bell peppers and pineapple chunks.
In a small bowl, I mix the cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir it into the crockpot to thicken the sauce.
I cover again and cook for the final 30 minutes.
Once the sauce is thickened and the chicken is tender, I serve it hot over white rice.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 to 6 servings. Cooking time is approximately 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high, plus 30 minutes for finishing and thickening the sauce.
Variations
I sometimes swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if I want a leaner option.
For a spicier version, I add a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of sriracha.
When I’m in the mood for a more veggie-loaded dish, I add chopped onions, snap peas, or carrots in with the bell peppers.
For a low-carb version, I serve this over cauliflower rice.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, I add a splash of water or pineapple juice while reheating.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is done in the crockpot?
I check that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It should be fork-tender and easy to shred or cut.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, I often use fresh pineapple chunks for a brighter flavor. Just make sure to have enough juice separately for the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. I like to prep all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then start the crockpot in the morning.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, I let the cooked chicken cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish besides rice?
I sometimes serve it with noodles, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a lighter option.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is a simple, flavorful recipe that brings tropical flavors right to my dinner table. It’s perfect for busy days, easy to customize, and always a hit with the family. I keep this one in my regular rotation when I want something comforting and delicious without a lot of effort.
A tropical-inspired slow cooker dish made with tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and a savory-sweet sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy Crockpot Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is flavorful, family-friendly, and pairs perfectly with rice or veggies.