If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and simple, this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the answer. Made with juicy chicken, pineapple chunks, and a tangy soy-ginger sauce, it brings bold tropical flavor to your dinner table—without the hassle. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do all the work. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a total winner. Plus, it’s flexible enough to serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or with Hawaiian rolls. One bite and you’ll be hooked on this easy crockpot classic.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Simple Ingredients for Big Island Flavor
One of the best things about Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is how effortlessly it comes together. You don’t need a pantry full of exotic items—just a handful of everyday ingredients that transform into something truly special.
🥣 Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (You can also use chicken thighs for extra tenderness)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (Fresh or canned—just make sure to drain the juice)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce Adds that classic umami kick
- ¼ cup brown sugar For just the right amount of sticky-sweet richness
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar Balances the sweetness with a mild tang
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic Because garlic makes everything better
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For a touch of heat (skip it if you’re feeding kids)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water Used at the end to thicken the sauce into a glossy glaze
How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
This dish is as easy as it gets—minimal prep, zero fuss, and big flavor. If you’ve got 10 minutes and a slow cooker, you’re halfway there! Follow these simple steps and let your crockpot do the rest of the magic.
🧊 Step 1: Add the Chicken
Start by placing 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
🍍 Step 2: Layer the Pineapple
Scatter 1 cup of pineapple chunks over the chicken.
Whether you’re using canned or fresh, just make sure it’s drained well to prevent a watery sauce.
🥣 Step 3: Mix the Hawaiian-Style Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
This mixture is the heart of your sweet and savory pineapple chicken—full of flavor with a tropical twist.
🫙 Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
Evenly pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and pineapple.
It’s okay if it doesn’t fully cover the chicken—once it cooks, the juices will come together beautifully.
🕓 Step 5: Cover and Cook
Put the lid on and set your slow cooker to:
- LOW for 5–6 hours, or
- HIGH for 3–4 hours
You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fork-tender and easy to shred.
Try not to lift the lid too often! Keeping the heat sealed in is key to even cooking.
🍴 Step 6: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board or plate.
Using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Then—return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot.
🌟 Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth.
Pour this slurry into the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce.
Switch the crockpot to HIGH, cover, and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens into a beautiful glossy glaze.
🍽️ Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken, give it all a good stir.
Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even tucked into Hawaiian rolls for sliders.
Essential Tools for Making Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
One of the many reasons we love this tropical chicken dinner is how little kitchen gear it requires. No fancy gadgets. No complicated steps. Just a few basics—and you’re on your way to a flavorful, slow-cooked masterpiece.
🥘 Must-Have Kitchen Tools
- Crockpot or slow cooker The star of the show. A 4–6 quart size works perfectly for this easy slow cooker chicken recipe.
- Mixing bowl You’ll use this to whisk up your sweet and savory sauce. Any medium-sized bowl will do.
- Measuring cups and spoons For accurately portioning soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Don’t eyeball it—balance is key!
- Sharp knife and cutting board For slicing fresh pineapple (if using) or prepping any optional add-ins like bell peppers or onions.
- Tongs or large spoon Handy for turning or removing the chicken before shredding.
- Two forks The easiest (and classic) way to shred your tender chicken after slow cooking.
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry Needed to thicken that glossy, irresistible sauce before serving.
🌟 Optional but Helpful Additions
- Rice cooker or Instant Pot To whip up fluffy jasmine or coconut rice to serve alongside your pineapple chicken crockpot meal.
- Serving spoon or ladle Makes it easier to scoop saucy chicken straight onto rice, rolls, or bowls.
- Storage containers For meal prepping or storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Got questions? You’re not alone. From cooking times to ingredient swaps, these FAQs cover everything you need to know to make this tropical chicken dinner turn out perfectly every time.
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Technically yes—but it’s not recommended. According to the USDA’s safe temperature chart, frozen meat can stay in the “danger zone” too long during slow cooking. For food safety, thaw the chicken first before adding it to your slow cooker.
What kind of pineapple should I use?
You can use fresh or canned pineapple chunks. Just make sure to drain the juice, especially if you’re using canned. Too much liquid can water down the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter taste, go for canned in juice, not syrup.
How do I thicken the sauce?
That glossy, sticky glaze? It comes from a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir it into the crockpot after shredding the chicken. Let it cook on high for 10–15 minutes, and voilà—perfectly thick sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Bell peppers, onions, or even carrots can be tossed in during the last 1–2 hours of cooking. This adds color, crunch, and an extra veggie boost to your pineapple chicken crockpot recipe.
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