Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Flavor

Crockpot Hawaiian chicken brings the sunshine right to your dinner table with almost no effort This sweet and savory dish features tender bites of chicken infused with pineapple and soy sauce all made easy thanks to your trusty slow cooker It is a reliable gluten free dish for busy nights when you want to walk in and find dinner waiting

The first time I made this recipe I was unsure if the kids would love the tangy sweet sauce but now they specifically ask for “the Hawaii chicken” any time they spot pineapple on the counter

Ingredients

• Chicken cubed: choose fresh boneless chicken breast or thighs for the best tenderness
• Cornstarch: helps the chicken get a light crust and thickens the sauce look for non GMO brands for best quality
• Salt and pepper: enhances flavor and balances the sweet and savory notes using freshly ground black pepper takes it up a notch
• Olive oil: helps sear the chicken before slow cooking opt for extra virgin as it adds a fruity richness
• Brown sugar: adds deep molasses sweetness organic light brown is especially fragrant
• Pineapple juice: brings bright tropical tartness use 100 percent juice no added sugar for the best outcome
• Soy sauce: gluten free variety is best if needed delivers umami saltiness
• Pineapple crushed: gives bursts of fruit flavor and juicy texture I always recommend using canned pineapple packed in juice not syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Coat the Chicken:

Combine cornstarch salt and pepper in a zip top bag Add chicken cubes and toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated This gives the chicken a delicate coating that will help grip the sauce

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Sear the coated chicken pieces in batches for about seven minutes turning occasionally until all sides are lightly browned The goal is not to cook through just create a browned exterior

Mix the Sauce:

In a small bowl stir together brown sugar pineapple juice soy sauce and crushed pineapple until well combined This makes sure every spoonful in the crockpot is evenly seasoned

Layer in Slow Cooker:

Pour half of the sauce mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker Add the seared chicken in an even layer then pour the remaining sauce over the top This allows the flavors to infuse during slow cooking

Cook Low and Slow:

Cover and cook on the low heat setting for four to six hours until the chicken is tender and flavors meld together Resist the urge to open the lid during cooking to maintain the ideal temperature

Save This

My personal favorite part is the little pops of sweet pineapple in every bite It reminds me of a vacation meal we shared as a family around our kitchen table while the rain came down outside

Storage Tips

Let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container Store in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage freeze in portioned containers for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge for easy meal prep

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap honey for brown sugar to cut refined sugar or tamari for gluten free soy sauce Add bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for extra color and crunch Use fresh pineapple if you have it but drain off excess liquid to avoid a watery sauce

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is delicious served over rice white brown or jasmine Cooked quinoa makes a nutty gluten free base Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans on the side help round out the meal For extra fun sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped scallions

Cultural Context

Hawaiian chicken is not a traditional dish from Hawaii but rather an American creation inspired by the islands sweet and savory flavor profile The magic comes from that classic blend of pineapple soy sauce and tender chicken a favorite family takeout fakeout meal

Common Queries

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs deliver juicy results and absorb the sweet and savory sauce well. Just cube as directed.

→ Is this dish freezer friendly?

Absolutely. Store cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ How can I make this meal spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce mixture before slow cooking for a gentle kick.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables pair perfectly and soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully.

→ Can I prepare this with fresh pineapple?

Fresh pineapple works great. Dice it finely to release plenty of juice and sweetness into the dish.