Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that mixes tender chicken with the bright flavor of pineapple and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar and soy sauce. The sauce gets thick and sticky, wrapping around each piece of chicken, making every bite full of flavor and just a little tropical. It’s a great way to bring some sunshine to your dinner table, even on a busy weeknight.
I love how easy this recipe is to throw together. Just add everything to the crockpot in the morning, and the sweet, tangy aroma fills the kitchen all day long. It feels like a little treat waiting for you when you come home, and the chicken comes out so juicy and soft that it melts in your mouth. It’s one of those meals I keep going back to whenever I want something comforting without a lot of fuss.
My favorite way to enjoy this chicken is over a bed of fluffy white rice or steamed veggies. Sometimes, I even add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. It’s a hit with everyone I serve it to, and the leftovers are just as good, making it perfect for meal prep days or busy families who want tasty food without a lot of work.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs give a bit more moisture and richness, but breasts are lean and easy to find. Use what you prefer or have on hand.
Pineapple: The canned pineapple chunks add sweetness and a tropical vibe. Use fresh pineapple if you like, just chop it into chunks and add the juice or a splash of pineapple juice.
Soy Sauce: This gives the dish its salty umami flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce is a good swap if you want less salt. Tamari or coconut aminos are good gluten-free options.
Brown Sugar: This balances the soy sauce with sweetness. You can use coconut sugar or honey instead if you prefer a different kind of sweetener.
Ketchup: Adds depth and a touch of acidity. If you don’t have ketchup, tomato paste or a bit of tomato sauce mixed with a little vinegar can work.
How Do You Make Sure the Sauce Is Thick and Glossy?
Thickening the sauce is key for that sticky, delicious coating on the chicken. Timing and the right thickener make all the difference.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry before adding it—this stops lumps.
- About 30 minutes before the meal is ready, stir the slurry into the crockpot and switch to high heat.
- Let it cook uncovered or with the lid slightly off to let the sauce thicken and get glossy.
- If you want a thicker sauce, add a little more slurry, but do it slowly to avoid clumps.
This small step makes the sauce rich and perfect for spooning over rice or veggies.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot/Slow cooker – the star for easy, hands-off cooking that makes chicken super tender.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for getting the sauce ingredients just right.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the cornstarch and water into a smooth slurry without lumps.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the ingredients gently without scratching the crockpot.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop chicken and green onions safely and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pork shoulder pieces for a richer, fattier option that stays juicy.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas for a fresh crunch and color contrast.
- Use honey instead of brown sugar for a lighter, floral sweetness.
- Mix in a little grated fresh ginger or a splash of lime juice for extra zing.
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (reserve juice)
For The Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for mild heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry for thickening)
For Serving and Garnish:
- Cooked white rice
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 4-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. You’ll also need about 30 minutes near the end to thicken the sauce and finish cooking. It’s perfect for a fuss-free but tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Sauce and Pineapple:
In your crockpot, pour in the pineapple chunks along with their juice. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well so the flavors mix.
2. Add Chicken and Cook:
Place the chicken chunks into the crockpot and gently toss to coat them with the sauce. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
3. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir your cornstarch slurry into the crockpot. Replace the lid and cook on high for the last 30 minutes to let the sauce thicken and become glossy.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the sweet Hawaiian chicken and pineapple over cooked white rice. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, tasty finish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before adding it to the crockpot. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. This ensures even cooking and food safety.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce in the crockpot, then refrigerate once cooled. Reheat gently on the stove or in the crockpot before serving. It tastes great the next day once the flavors have melded even more.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and keep the sauce thick and glossy.
Can I Use Other Types of Rice or Sides?
Yes! This chicken pairs well with jasmine, basmati, or brown rice. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables. It’s flexible and delicious with many sides.
