Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a fantastic dish for many reasons. It’s simple to prepare, especially using a crockpot, which means you can set it and forget it. This dish combines savory and sweet flavors, making it appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, for spice
- Chopped bell peppers, for color and crunch
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Sesame seeds
Directions
- Prepare your chicken breasts. You can leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking. Place them at the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, diced pineapple, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the pineapple mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure to coat all the pieces.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the crockpot, then stir it into the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and your choice of sides.
How to Serve Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken can be served in various ways. You can enjoy it over a bed of rice or with noodles, which soak up the delicious sauce. Adding some steamed vegetables on the side can make for a complete meal. Don’t forget the garnishes like sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal!
How to Store Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2 months for the best taste.
Tips to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- If you want more crunch, toss in some chopped bell peppers right before serving.
- For a healthier option, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce and use fresh pineapples.
Variation
For a unique twist, you can add diced mango along with the pineapple for a tropical flavor. You can also use bone-in chicken pieces if you prefer; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just cook them on high for about 5-6 hours instead of low.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level to your liking.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients and keep them in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, just throw them in the crockpot.
4. What sides go well with this chicken?
Rice, noodles, and steamed vegetables pair well with this dish. You can also serve it with a fresh salad.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot has enough space and adjust the cooking time if necessary.
