Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple and delicious meal that combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with a glaze of pineapple, soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, with just the right mix of sweet and tangy that makes your taste buds happy.
I love making this recipe on busy days because I can just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while I relax or get other things done. It’s one of those meals that feels special but takes almost no effort — perfect for any night of the week.
My favorite way to serve this chicken is over a bed of fluffy white rice, with some steamed veggies on the side. The sweet sauce soaks into the rice and makes every bite satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring smiles at the dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless chicken breasts for their lean texture, but thighs work well too if you want extra juiciness. Thighs stay tender even if cooked longer.
Pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a bright flavor, but canned pineapple with juice is a great, budget-friendly option. Make sure to include the juice—it adds natural sweetness and moisture.
Brown sugar & soy sauce: These give the sauce its classic sweet and salty balance. For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. You can replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup if you prefer natural sweeteners.
Ketchup and apple cider vinegar: They add tanginess and depth. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or lemon juice can work, but adjust the amount to keep the balance.
How Can You Get Tender, Flavorful Chicken in the Crockpot?
Slow-cooking chicken can be tricky if you want it juicy, not dry. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Cut chicken into bite-size pieces so it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce well.
- Don’t lift the lid too often; this traps heat and helps cook chicken gently.
- Cook on low heat for 5-6 hours for the best texture. High heat works faster but risks drying out the chicken.
- About 30 minutes before serving, if the sauce looks thin, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry and stir it in. This step thickens the sauce without making it heavy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – This is what makes the recipe so easy; it cooks everything slowly and keeps the chicken tender.
- Sharp knife – You’ll need it to cut chicken and vegetables evenly for quick and even cooking.
- Cutting board – A sturdy surface helps keep your prep safe and organized.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for whisking the sauce ingredients together before pouring over the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – These help you get the sauce flavors just right every time.
- Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula – For gently stirring the ingredients without scratching your crockpot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want extra juicy, flavorful meat that holds up well to slow cooking.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas toward the end of cooking for extra crunch and color.
- Stir in a little crushed red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat with your sweet Hawaiian sauce.
- Try mixing in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top after cooking for a creamy twist.
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. The chicken then cooks in the crockpot for 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. If you choose to thicken the sauce, add another 30 minutes. Overall, plan on about 6 hours including prep and cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Combine Ingredients:
Place the chicken pieces, pineapple chunks, diced carrots, and crushed pineapple with juice into your crockpot.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble in Crockpot:
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the crockpot. Stir gently to make sure everything is nicely coated.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Optional: Thicken the Sauce:
If you like a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot, cover, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Dish out the Hawaiian chicken over cooked white rice and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a bright finish.
Enjoy this sweet and tangy Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken — perfect for an easy, tasty dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before adding to the crockpot. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the quick-thaw method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water. This helps ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything and cook it in the crockpot as usual. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce If It’s Too Watery?
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry about 30 minutes before serving. Stir it into the crockpot, cover, and cook until the sauce thickens. This gives you a perfect consistency without changing the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken?
Serve it hot over cooked white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
