Bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table with Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. This dish features tender chicken cooked in a sweet and savory sauce, infused with pineapple and garlic, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s both easy and delicious.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken breast
1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can pineapple chunks, drained
Directions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Add the chopped red bell pepper and drained pineapple chunks to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken if desired and serve over rice. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. The prep time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low, resulting in a total time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Include other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.
- Use Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor and more moisture.
- Serve with Noodles: Instead of rice, serve over cooked noodles for a different twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted. - What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. - Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. - What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
You can substitute with orange juice or a mixture of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for acidity. - How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be fully cooked and easily shredded with a fork when done. - Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if preferred. - How can I thicken the sauce?
To thicken, remove the chicken after cooking, then whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water, cooking on high until thickened. - Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a fresher taste. - Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s great for meal prepping and can be portioned out for lunches. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a flavorful and hassle-free dish that brings the essence of Hawaii right to your kitchen. With its sweet and tangy sauce, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite!