sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken
Sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of the Hawaiian islands with the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without a lot of effort. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors in this dish will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Hawaiian cuisine or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, this recipe is sure to please.
One of the best things about sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is how tender and juicy the meat becomes after slow cooking. The chicken practically falls apart with a fork, making it incredibly easy to serve and enjoy. The blend of flavors from the sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger creates a mouthwatering dish that is hard to resist.
Recipe Quick Facts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine Type: Hawaiian
Course: Dinner
Dietary Labels: Gluten-Free
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
– Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time
– Adaptable to different dietary needs
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
For Serving:
– Cooked rice
– Sliced green onions
– Sesame seeds
For the best results, use fresh pineapple juice and adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more or less brown sugar.
Equipment Needed
– Slow cooker
– Cutting board and knife
– Mixing spoon
– Serving dishes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender.
5. Serve the sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken over rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Include step photos here for visual guidance.
Pro Tips for Success
– For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.
– If the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry.
– Add some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and color.
Substitutions & Variations
– For a healthier version, use chicken breast instead of thighs.
– Add a spicy kick by including red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.
– Include chunks of fresh pineapple in the slow cooker for added sweetness and texture.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature: Enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
– Serve with a side of coconut rice for an extra touch of the tropics.
– A refreshing cucumber salad or coleslaw makes a great accompaniment to the sweet Hawaiian flavors.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 25g | Sodium: 800mg
FAQ
1. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
2. Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?
Yes, grated fresh ginger will add a bright, zesty flavor to the dish.
3. Is it necessary to use low-sodium soy sauce?
While low-sodium soy sauce is recommended for better control of saltiness, you can use regular soy sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to ensure the entire dish is gluten-free.
Recipe Notes
Sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own unique version of this tropical-inspired meal.
sweet hawaiian crockpot chicken
A delightful dish that combines the flavors of the Hawaiian islands with the convenience of a slow cooker. This sweet and tangy chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a tropical escape with every bite.
Ingredients
-
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
-
1 cup pineapple juice
-
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
-
1/2 cup ketchup
-
1/3 cup brown sugar
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tsp ground ginger
-
Cooked rice
-
Sliced green onions
-
Sesame seeds
Directions
-
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
-
Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
-
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender.
-
Serve the sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken over rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
