Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

This Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dinner recipe that your entire family will love! The tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with fluffy rice and sweet pineapples for a truly delicious experience.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Slurry
• For Garnish
• How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
• Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
• Step 2: Brown the Chicken Thighs
• Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker
• Step 5: Remove Excess Fat
• Step 6: Add Slurry and Bell Pepper
• Step 7: Finish Up with Pineapples
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
• Serve with Rice
• Add Fresh Vegetables
• Garnish Creatively
• Pair with Salad
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
• Reheating Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What can I serve with Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
• How spicy is Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
• Can I make this recipe in advance?
• What makes Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken unique?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering sticky sauce that everyone will crave.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or as a filling for sandwiches—great for leftovers!
• Health Benefits: Packed with protein and vitamins from the vegetables and pineapple, it’s both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Chopping Board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows you to cook the chicken slowly, enhancing its flavor while keeping it tender.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for browning the chicken and sautéing the onions, which adds depth to the dish.
• Knife: A good knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3.8 lbs Chicken thighs (about 7 pcs), bone in, skin on
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1 Tbsp neutral oil
• 1 onion, large chopped
• 2 garlic cloves sliced
• 1 ginger knob julienned
• 1 red bell pepper chopped
• 1½ cup pineapple chunks

For the Sauce

• ½ cup water
• ½ cup pineapple juice (canned)
• 2 Tbsp dark brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 4 Tbsp ketchup
• 4 Tbsp Tshuyu Soup Base/Oigatsu (concentrated)
• 2 Tbsp vinegar
• ⅛ tsp white pepper
• 1 Tbsp dark soy sauce

For the Slurry

• 1½ Tbsp corn starch
• 2 Tbsp water

For Garnish

• Chopped scallions
• Roasted sesame seeds

How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat.
• Add chopped onion; cook for 1–2 minutes until charred while stirring.
• Incorporate a pinch of salt along with garlic and ginger; cook for another 30 seconds.
• Transfer to a bowl once finished.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Thighs

• In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.
• Place chicken thighs in the skillet skin-side down first.
• Cook for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown; turn halfway through cooking.
• Use a lid to prevent splattering during this step.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• In a bowl, combine all sauce ingredients.
• Stir until well combined; set aside.

Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker

• Layer cooked onion at the bottom of your slow cooker.
• Add browned chicken on top of the onions.
• Drizzle sauce evenly over everything.
• Close lid; set slow cooker to high for 1½ hours.
• Glaze meat occasionally during cooking.

Step 5: Remove Excess Fat

• After cooking time is up, use a ladle to collect any floating fat liquid; set aside.

Step 6: Add Slurry and Bell Pepper

• Stir in slurry mixture along with chopped red bell pepper.
• Close lid; cook for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Up with Pineapples

• Turn off slow cooker; stir in pineapple chunks.
• Garnish with chopped scallions and roasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy with hot rice!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your dinner table. With its tender chicken and sweet sauce, there are numerous ways to serve it for an enjoyable meal.

Serve with Rice

• White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the chicken.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and a nutritious crunch.
• Sautéed Snap Peas: These sweet peas provide a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle some on top for added freshness and a burst of color.
• Roasted Sesame Seeds: These add a nutty flavor and an appealing texture.

Pair with Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Asian Slaw: This crunchy slaw enhances the meal with its tangy dressing and vibrant vegetables.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use bone-in chicken thighs: They stay moist and tender during cooking, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
• Sear the chicken first: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker creates a deeper flavor profile.
• Layer ingredients properly: Starting with onions at the bottom allows them to infuse their flavor into the chicken as it cooks.
• Don’t skip the glaze: Basting occasionally during cooking helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
• Adjust sweetness as needed: Depending on your preference, you can add more or less brown sugar to achieve your desired sweetness level.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Serving side dishes alongside your Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the sweetness of the dish wonderfully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed grain salad with veggies provides a healthy contrast.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a sophisticated touch with its earthy flavor.
4. Fried Rice: Leftover rice stir-fried with vegetables offers an exciting twist on traditional rice.
5. Mango Salsa: Bright and zesty mango salsa enhances each bite with tropical freshness.
6. Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles bring an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste.

• Incorrect sauce measurements: Using too much or too little sauce can alter the dish’s flavor. Always measure ingredients accurately for best results.

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too much chicken or other ingredients can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for the heat to circulate.

• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking times vary by slow cooker model. Always check for doneness and adjust based on your appliance.

• Not letting it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2-3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from bags.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet until warm, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?

You can pair this dish with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?

This recipe is not spicy; it’s more sweet and savory. You can add chili flakes if you prefer heat.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.

What makes Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken unique?

The combination of sweet pineapple juice and savory soy sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s both comforting and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is a family-friendly recipe that brings together tender chicken and a delightful sauce. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try for an easy weeknight meal that everyone will love!