Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a deliciously simple dish that combines tender chicken with the tropical flavors of pineapple and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar and soy sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, making the chicken juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a no-fuss dinner.
I love how this recipe fills the house with a lovely, fruity aroma as it cooks. It’s one of those dishes that always gets people asking for seconds because the mix of sweet and savory is just right. Plus, using the crockpot means I can set it in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal that feels like a special treat without the hassle.
My favorite way to serve this chicken is over a bed of steamed white rice with a sprinkle of green onions on top. It’s so comforting and easy to enjoy. Sometimes I add a side of steamed veggies or even make it into a tasty sandwich with some coleslaw. This recipe is definitely one I keep coming back to whenever I want a little tropical twist without the extra effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs for the juiciest, most flavorful result, but boneless works great if you want less fuss. Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out more in the crockpot.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple adds brightness, but canned works perfectly too. Just save the juice to keep that tropical flavor strong in the sauce.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce keeps the salt in check. If you want gluten-free, tamari or coconut aminos are good swaps.
Sweetener: Honey or brown sugar both bring sweetness and depth. Brown sugar gives a richer flavor, while honey adds light floral notes.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and slight crunch. You can try green or yellow peppers if you like, or add more pineapple for extra sweetness.
How Do I Get the Sauce Thick and Glossy?
The final step of thickening the sauce is key to turning the slow-cooked juices into a glaze that clings to the chicken:
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a smooth slurry; this avoids lumps.
- Stir the slurry into the cooking liquid left in the crockpot after removing the chicken.
- Set the crockpot to high, or transfer the liquid to a saucepan over medium heat if preferred.
- Heat while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and becomes shiny — about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Don’t rush this part; the slow thickening helps create that beautiful glaze texture.
This process makes every bite flavorful and nicely coated without being soupy. I always enjoy the sticky finish it gives to this Hawaiian chicken dish!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – perfect for cooking the chicken low and slow to get it tender and flavorful without much work.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping the pineapple and bell peppers easily and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure sauces and spices accurately for the best balance of flavors.
- Small bowl – to mix the cornstarch slurry before thickening the sauce without lumps.
- Spoon or spatula – for stirring ingredients and turning the chicken to coat with sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for turkey thighs – works well if you want a leaner but still juicy option with a similar texture.
- Add sliced pineapple jalapeños – for a bit of heat that pairs nicely with the sweet pineapple flavor.
- Include chopped green onions or snap peas – they add a fresh crunch and brighten the dish.
- Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce – if you like a spicy kick to balance the sweetness.
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin on or boneless)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, with juice reserved)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped into chunks
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned or fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Thickening and Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and assembling the ingredients takes about 15 minutes. Cooking in the crockpot requires 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Adding the final thickening step takes another 10-15 minutes. So overall, expect about 6 hours total, mostly hands-off cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:
Lightly season chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. In your crockpot, mix together soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, vinegar, and fresh ginger (if using). Stir well until blended.
2. Add Chicken and Vegetables:
Place chicken thighs in the crockpot and turn to coat with the sauce. Scatter pineapple chunks and chopped red bell peppers over and around the chicken.
3. Cook the Dish:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through when done.
4. Remove and Thicken the Sauce:
Carefully remove chicken and vegetables from the crockpot, placing them on a serving dish and keeping warm. Mix cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir the mixture into the crockpot liquid. Put the crockpot on high and cook the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over cooked white rice or your favorite side.
For more delicious crockpot chicken ideas, try the flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala or the hearty Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing. Both are simple to prepare and perfect for family meals.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and safe temperatures throughout.
Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out in the crockpot, so check for doneness earlier and consider cooking on low heat to retain moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Swap the soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep that savory flavor without gluten.
Is Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Good for You?
Chicken is one of the most popular protein sources worldwide, and for good reason. It’s rich in lean protein, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle growth, bone health, and overall well-being. When prepared with wholesome ingredients, chicken dishes can fit into a variety of healthy eating plans. For a deeper look at its nutritional profile and benefits, you can read more about whether chicken is good for you. Including chicken in balanced meals like this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is an easy and delicious way to nourish your body.
Conclusion
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the perfect combination of tender chicken, tangy pineapple, and savory flavors. It’s a dish that feels tropical yet requires minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table. For more irresistible slow cooker ideas, try our savory Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice or comforting Zucchini Mushroom Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. Both are simple, satisfying, and perfect for keeping mealtime stress-free.
