Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with tropical sweetness and simple comfort, you’re going to love this Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe. I’ve served this to friends and family more times than I can count, and every time it’s a hit. It’s one of those dinners that practically makes itself, and you get that rich, sticky sauce with tender chicken that’s simply next level. Stick around—I’ll walk you through everything so you nail it perfectly on your first try.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together so seamlessly in the crockpot—you’ll want to make sure your chicken thighs are good quality and that you grab fresh pineapple if you can. The combo of garlic, ginger, and coconut sugar brings this dish to life!

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless are easiest, plus they stay juicy cooking low and slow.
• Red Bell Peppers: They add vibrant color and sweetness that complements the pineapple.
• Yellow Onion: Provides a subtle bite and sweetness when it cooks down.
• Pineapple: Fresh is best to avoid extra liquid, but drained canned works in a pinch.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic brings that classic savory depth.
• Fresh Ginger: Grated for a zingy warmth that brightens the dish.
• Coconut Sugar: Gives a richer sweetness than regular sugar, really enhances the tropical vibe.
• Soy Sauce: Adds that salty, umami boost; tamari works great as a gluten-free option.
• Honey: Rounds out sweetness with natural floral notes.
• Arrowroot or Cornstarch: For thickening the sauce once the chicken is cooked.
• Water: Used to mix with the starch to make a smooth slurry before adding.
• Green Onions: Fresh and bright garnish to finish off the dish.

Variations

I love that this Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe is so flexible—you can tweak it based on what you have or your family’s favorite tastes. It’s perfect for playing around with!

• Spicy Twist: Add a splash of sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes—I’ve tried this, and my family loved the little heat kick.
• Vegetable Boost: Try adding snap peas or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor; it cooks beautifully right alongside the chicken.
• Low-Sugar Option: Swap honey for maple syrup or skip the coconut sugar if you want to cut down on sweetness.
• Different Protein: Chicken breasts work too, but keep an eye on cooking time so they don’t dry out.

How to Make Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Layer Your Ingredients

First things first, spray your crockpot with a little nonstick spray—that way cleanup is easier. Season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then lay them at the bottom of the crockpot. I like to do this in an even layer to make sure every piece gets that delicious sauce love. Next, pile in the sliced bell peppers, diced onions, pineapple cubes, garlic, ginger, and coconut sugar. It might look like a lot, but trust me, it all melds perfectly.

Step 2: Whisk and Pour the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey until smooth. This simple sauce is your flavor powerhouse. Pour it evenly over the chicken and veggies, making sure everything gets some of those tangy, sweet notes. This step is where the magic begins, and you’ll love the smell as it cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook on Low for 4-5 Hours

Pop the lid on and set your crockpot to LOW for 4 to 5 hours. I usually go for 5 when I have the time because it lets the flavors deepen and the chicken falls apart beautifully. Don’t peek too often—you want to keep that heat steady. When you scoop the chicken towards the end of cooking, it should be tender and juicy, with the veggies softened but not mushy.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time to thicken that gorgeous sauce. Whisk the arrowroot (or cornstarch) with water until smooth, then pour it into the crockpot. Give everything a gentle stir so the sauce can thicken evenly. Let it cook for about 30-40 more minutes—this extra touch is what turns the sauce from good to restaurant-quality sticky and shiny perfection.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken hot over fluffy rice or alongside your favorite veggies. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for freshness and a pop of color. I promise this is a meal everyone will ask you to make again—and fast!

How to Serve Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

I always top mine with plenty of fresh chopped green onions—they add a lovely brightness and crunch. Sometimes I throw on a few toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty note. If you like things a bit spicy, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes pairs beautifully, too.

Side Dishes

Rice is my go-to, especially jasmine or basmati since their fragrance complements the sweet-salty sauce. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a fresh, crunchy contrast. If you want more island vibes, coconut rice is a fantastic match here.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this chicken piled in mini pineapple “bowls”—just hollow out a small pineapple and spoon the chicken mixture inside. It’s a fun, festive presentation that always impresses. Also great for potlucks and parties where you want your dish to stand out visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually portion it out with rice or veggies ready to go for a quick lunch or easy dinner, and it tastes just as good the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe a couple of times, and it holds up well if you freeze it before you thicken the sauce. Freeze in portioned containers, then when ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and add the thickening step fresh on the stove or in a slow cooker for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming it gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This keeps the chicken tender and the sauce glossy. Avoid microwaving too long or on high heat to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Recipe has honestly become a go-to in my home because it’s just so easy and reliable, yet tastes like you put in a ton of effort. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal waiting for you at dinnertime, with that lovely tropical twist that brightens up any weeknight. I hope you give it a try—it might just become one of your family’s favorites, too!

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