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Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is an effortless slow cooker recipe that features tender boneless chicken breasts or thighs simmered in a delicious blend of sweet pineapple chunks, savory barbecue sauce, and balanced seasonings. This tropical-inspired dish offers a perfect sweet and tangy flavor profile that is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping, and can be served over rice, noodles, or as a fun slider filling. Easy to customize and packed with vibrant flavors, it’s a comforting and exciting dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 to 3 boneless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce & Seasonings

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (smoky or sweet, your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Fruit

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups pineapple chunks with juice (fresh or canned)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place your boneless chicken breasts or thighs into the base of your slow cooker, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until all ingredients are fully blended and fragrant.
  3. Add Pineapple: Pour the pineapple chunks along with the juice over the chicken to add natural sweetness and moisture.
  4. Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken easily shreds with a fork.
  5. Shred and Serve: Remove the cooked chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to soak up the remaining sauce before serving.

Notes

  • Choose the right cut: Thighs stay juicier than breasts, but either works well.
  • Use fresh pineapple juice for better flavor without excess sweetness.
  • Check chicken for doneness at the earlier time to avoid drying.
  • Add soy sauce to balance sweetness and layer flavors.
  • If desired, remove chicken and reduce sauce on high heat for a glaze consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker recipe, tropical chicken, pineapple chicken, barbecue chicken, easy dinner