Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

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There’s something magical about a recipe that’s easy to make and still bursting with flavor. That’s exactly what this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is! It’s sweet, tangy, savory, and has that tropical touch that’ll make you feel like you’re dining on a beach. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a party, this dish is a no-fail crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  Juicy and tender chicken is the heart of this dish. Thighs are recommended for more flavor, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
• 1 cup pineapple chunks with juice
  Adds tropical sweetness and a burst of juiciness that’s key to the Hawaiian-inspired flavor.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
  Choose a smoky or tangy BBQ sauce to complement the pineapple and create a rich glaze.
• ½ cup soy sauce
  Balances the sweetness with savory umami goodness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic adds depth and enhances the overall flavor. Quick prep tip: use a garlic press to save time!
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
  For an extra touch of sweetness if you prefer a more caramelized sauce.

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How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Here’s how to create this flavorful dish step-by-step:

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the crockpot. You don’t need to pre-cook them – the slow cooker will do all the work!

Step 2: Mix the sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple chunks (and juice), BBQ sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Add the sauce to the crockpot

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated.

Step 4: Cook on low or high

Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable with a fork.

Step 5: Thicken the sauce (optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the sauce to a pan and simmer on the stove with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons of water until it thickens.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy!

Serve your Sweet Hawaiian Chicken over steamed rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Storing Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use fresh pineapple juice or blend some of the chunks for the liquid portion.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken slightly, then cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Let it naturally release for 5 minutes.

What can I serve with Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
This pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add roasted veggies or a fresh salad for balance.

Can I substitute chicken for another protein?
Definitely! Pork tenderloin or even tofu are great alternatives. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Do I have to thicken the sauce?
No, that’s optional. If you like a saucy dish, you can skip that step – the sauce will still taste delicious.

Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with spicy, smoky, or even honey BBQ sauces to suit your taste.

Is it okay to double the recipe?
Of course! Just ensure your crockpot has enough space for everything to cook evenly.

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I hope you love this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken as much as I do! It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to because it’s just so simple yet flavorful. If you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to share it on Facebook using the share buttons below or save it to Pinterest for later. Enjoy every bite of this tropical-inspired dish!

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