Sweet Hawaiian Crock-Pot Chicken Recipe: A Tropical Dinner Made Easy

If you're craving a dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory notes of soy sauce, look no further than this Sweet Hawaiian Crock-Pot Chicken recipe. Imagine tender chicken chunks simmering slowly in a tangy pineapple-soy sauce blend, infusing each bite with tropical flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want a taste of the islands right at home.

Photo byMMM Recipes

I discovered this recipe when I was looking for a way to bring the taste of the Hawaiian islands to my table without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of a Crock-Pot, it quickly became a favorite in my household. And I’m excited to share this version with you! For more details and inspiration, don’t forget to check out the original post on MMM Recipes.

The Tropical Origins of Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Hawaiian cuisine is known for its unique fusion of flavors, blending sweet and savory elements with influences from Polynesian, Asian, and American dishes. This recipe captures that spirit by combining the sweetness of pineapple with the umami of soy sauce, creating a balance that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Using a slow cooker makes it even more appealing, as it allows the ingredients to meld together over time, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for spooning over steamed rice.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs chicken chunks (white, dark, or mixed)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 medium can pineapple chunks (optional)
• 1 small Vidalia onion, chopped (optional)
• Green pepper chunks (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized chunks if not already done. If using the optional ingredients, chop the Vidalia onion and green pepper into chunks as well.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the pineapple juice, packed brown sugar, and low sodium soy sauce. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Assemble in the Crock-Pot: Place the chicken chunks in the Crock-Pot. If you're using the optional pineapple chunks, onion, and green pepper, add them in as well.
4. Pour the Sauce: Pour the prepared pineapple-soy sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
5. Cook: Set your Crock-Pot to low and cook for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and the flavors well-blended.
6. Serve: Once cooked, give everything a good stir and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips & Variations

• For a thicker sauce: You can thicken the sauce by removing some of the liquid and mixing it with a tablespoon of cornstarch, then stirring it back into the Crock-Pot for the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can be added to give the dish a bit more crunch and color.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick that balances the sweetness.

Pairing Suggestions

This Sweet Hawaiian Crock-Pot Chicken pairs wonderfully with a bowl of steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which helps soak up the sweet and savory sauce. A side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas adds a fresh contrast to the rich flavors. For a more complete tropical experience, serve with a refreshing pineapple-cucumber salad on the side.

Enjoy the Tropical Flavors

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It's a simple yet delicious way to bring a little taste of Hawaii into your home. If you try it, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Did you add your own twist? Leave a comment below, share the recipe with friends, and don't forget to follow for more mouth-watering recipes like this one! Happy cooking!