Looking for a simple and delightful recipe to add a touch of Hawaiian flavor to your meals? This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a fantastic option that will tantalize your taste buds with its blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe offers a unique twist on classic chicken dishes and is perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- Sweet and Savory Combination: Perfectly balances the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of soy sauce and brown sugar.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is a breeze to make.
- Family Favorite: The tender and flavorful chicken will be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Dish: Serve this chicken on its own, over rice, or with a side of veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredient Notes
- ⅓ cup Soy Sauce: Adds a salty umami flavor to the dish.
- ½ cup Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.
- 1 can Pineapple Chunks in 100% Pineapple Juice: Adds tropical sweetness and acidity.
- 2 lb. Chicken Breasts, Cut into Pieces: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience and tenderness.
How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Step 1: Layer the Chicken
Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the soy sauce and pineapple chunks on top.
Step 2: Add the Sweetness
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the chicken and pineapple mixture, then stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, stir the chicken and sauce together before serving.
Storage Options
To store any leftovers, transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
- Use Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Add Bell Peppers: Include sliced bell peppers for added color and crunch.
- Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Teriyaki Twist: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve With Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- Coconut Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy coconut rice for a tropical meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair the chicken with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a balanced meal.
- Pineapple Salsa: Top the chicken with a fresh pineapple salsa for a burst of citrusy flavor.
- Tropical Green Salad: Accompany the chicken with a refreshing green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
No, it is recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple chunks, but make sure to include some juice to maintain the sweetness.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and cook in a larger crockpot for more servings.
Can I adjust the sweetness level of the dish?
Absolutely, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preference.
After preparing this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken, you can expect a tender and flavorful dish with a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken combined with the tangy pineapple and rich soy sauce creates a delicious harmony that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 can Pineapple Chunks in 100% Pineapple Juice
- 2 lb Chicken Breasts, Cut into Pieces
Instructions
- Layer the chicken in the crockpot and pour soy sauce and pineapple chunks on top.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the chicken and pineapple, then stir to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir chicken and sauce together before serving.