sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken Recipe
If you’re longing for a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a ticket to a tropical island, sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken is your answer. Juicy chunks of chicken simmer all day in a tangy, caramelized pineapple sauce that strikes just the right balance of sweet and savory. This easy recipe requires only a handful of ingredients but creates an unforgettable meal bursting with bright island vibes. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for a potluck, or just craving some sunshine on a plate, this is a feel-good dish that makes any night special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a few key ingredients can come together for such magical results! Each item in this sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken recipe plays an important role, either lending its sweetness, savoriness, or juiciness to the final dish. Here’s what you’ll need, plus some tips to make it extra special:
- Chicken tenderloin chunks: Go for about 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chunks; they cook up tender and melt-in-your-mouth soft in the crockpot.
- Pineapple juice: 1 cup adds all that bright tropical sweetness and keeps the chicken moist during its slow simmer.
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup for a rich, caramel note that balances the pineapple and gives the sauce a beautiful sheen.
- Soy sauce: 1/3 cup to pull everything together with a savory backbone and a boost of umami flavor.
How to Make sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
This is as easy as it gets: just gather your chicken tenderloin chunks, pour out your pineapple juice, measure your brown sugar, and get your soy sauce ready. Having everything measured and within arm’s reach makes this recipe truly effortless down the road.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, add the pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Give the mixture a good stir until you see that the brown sugar has fully dissolved. This fragrant sauce is what transforms your chicken into the perfect sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken.
Step 3: Layer the Chicken
Place the chicken tenderloin chunks in an even layer at the bottom of your crockpot. Keeping the pieces separated lets the sauce soak into every bite for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce
Carefully pour the pineapple-soy mixture over the chicken, making sure that every piece is covered. This will help the chicken absorb all those tangy, sweet flavors while it cooks.
Step 5: Let It Cook
All that’s left is setting your crockpot to low, closing the lid, and letting it do its magic for 6 to 8 hours. The chicken will turn out incredibly juicy and every bite will be infused with tropical flavor. No stirring or babysitting required!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken is fork-tender, simply scoop it (along with all that luscious sauce) over a bed of rice. Enjoy the delicious aroma and even better taste!
How to Serve sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or cilantro over your chicken for a burst of color and crispness. For extra island flair, a few pineapple chunks or toasted sesame seeds add a gorgeous finishing touch and subtle crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or coconut rice. Add a side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or even a bright tropical fruit salad to keep things fresh. For a bit more heartiness, try it with roasted sweet potatoes or a crunchy cabbage slaw.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken into a crowd-pleasing party dish by serving it in pineapple bowls, wrapping it up as sliders in Hawaiian rolls, or spooning the mixture into lettuce cups for a light, hand-held meal. The possibilities are endless—and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken keeps very well in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container, ensuring the chicken stays submerged in the sauce to keep it moist. It’ll be good for about 3 to 4 days—perfect for delicious lunches or an even easier dinner the next night.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Just let everything cool, then transfer portions (including the sauce) into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and defrost in the refrigerator overnight for best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat your sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until everything is warmed through and ready to enjoy again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenderloin?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts or thighs work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to cut them into chunks for even cooking, and keep in mind that thighs tend to be a bit juicier if you like extra tenderness.
Can I cook this on high if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can set your crockpot to high and cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 hours. The flavors will still develop, but the low and slow method gives you even more tender results if you have the time.
Is this sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken gluten-free?
The only ingredient to watch is the soy sauce, which often contains wheat. Swap in tamari or coconut aminos for a completely gluten-free version that tastes just as fabulous.
What type of pineapple juice should I use?
Go for 100 percent pure pineapple juice with no added sugars for the best flavor. If possible, avoid juice blends to make sure you get those fresh, tangy notes in every bite.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, and even chunks of pineapple are fantastic additions. Just cut them into big pieces and add them alongside the chicken for a more colorful and veggie-packed meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for an effortless, tropical-inspired dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile, this sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken might just become your new go-to. Warm, comforting, and packed with bright flavors, it’s a dish that transforms any day into a celebration. Give it a try—you won’t believe how easy and satisfying it is!
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sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Hindu
Description
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken recipe combines the flavors of pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce to create a delicious tropical dish that is perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 lb. (.9kg) chicken tenderloin chunks
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients.
- Combine: In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken tenderloin chunks at the bottom of your Crockpot.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the pineapple mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cook: Set your Crockpot to low and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Once done, serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of rice. Enjoy the tropical flavors!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Sweet Hawaiian, Crockpot Chicken, Pineapple
