Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a deliciously simple recipe that brings together tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and a flavorful sauce with just the right amount of tang.

With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a tropical-inspired meal. Serve it over rice or with steamed veggies for a family favorite dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp ground ginger
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Green onions and sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:

Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Pour the mixture over the chicken.

Cook the Chicken:

Add the pineapple chunks to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and keep it warm.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Serve:

Shred the chicken or leave it whole, depending on your preference. Return it to the sauce and stir to coat.
Serve over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Recipe Tips

Use Thighs for Extra Juiciness: Chicken thighs stay moist and flavorful throughout the slow cooking process.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to your taste.
Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

What to Serve with Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Pair it with steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice, or a side of stir-fried vegetables. Hawaiian rolls also make a fantastic accompaniment!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Use fresh pineapple chunks and substitute the juice with pineapple juice from a bottle.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a breeze to make and delivers big on flavor. It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your home!