Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table with Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. This dish features tender chicken cooked in a sweet and savory sauce, infused with pineapple and garlic, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s both easy and delicious.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast
1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 can pineapple chunks, drained

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
3. Add the chopped red bell pepper and drained pineapple chunks to the crockpot.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken if desired and serve over rice. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. The prep time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low, resulting in a total time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Include other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.
• Use Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor and more moisture.
• Serve with Noodles: Instead of rice, serve over cooked noodles for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
   It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
3. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
4. What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
   You can substitute with orange juice or a mixture of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for acidity.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   The chicken should be fully cooked and easily shredded with a fork when done.
6. Can I use other cuts of chicken?
   Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if preferred.
7. How can I thicken the sauce?
   To thicken, remove the chicken after cooking, then whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water, cooking on high until thickened.
8. Can I use fresh pineapple?
   Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a fresher taste.
9. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
   Absolutely! It’s great for meal prepping and can be portioned out for lunches.
10. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a flavorful and hassle-free dish that brings the essence of Hawaii right to your kitchen. With its sweet and tangy sauce, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite!

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