Dinner

Irresistible Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe

Name: Irresistible Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice; 1 cup pineapple juice; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground ginger; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; Chopped green onions

Bylina moretti November 4, 2025November 4, 2025

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Introduction

This Irresistible Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken cooked slowly in a pineapple-soy sauce, it bursts with tropical flavors perfect for any meal.

A white plate holds a pile of glossy, caramelized chicken pieces with a rich brown color, mixed with bright yellow chunks of pineapple. The chicken pieces are irregular in shape, some showing tender, fibrous texture, and are coated in thick sauce, giving a shiny, sticky look. The pineapple pieces are juicy and cut into medium-sized chunks, scattered evenly among the chicken. The plate sits on a textured brown fabric, with the background softly blurred and out of focus, emphasizing the warmth and richness of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice
1 cup pineapple juice
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup soy sauce
2 minced garlic cloves
1 tsp ground ginger
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional)
2 tbsp water (optional)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Place chicken thighs in the crockpot in an even layer.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger until combined.
Step 4: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s coated evenly.
Step 5: Add pineapple chunks on top of the chicken.
Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 7: If a thicker sauce is desired, remove the chicken and stir in cornstarch mixed with water. Cook on high for another 15 minutes.
Step 8: Serve the chicken over steamed rice or noodles, garnishing with chopped green onions.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce before cooking.
Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Substitute brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce flavorful.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate filled with rich, golden-brown Hawaiian chicken pieces glazed with a shiny, sticky sauce, mixed with bright yellow chunks of pineapple. The chicken appears tender and juicy, with some pieces showing slight grill marks and caramelization that add texture. The pineapple pieces are cut into medium-sized chunks, adding pops of vibrant yellow amidst the reddish-brown chicken. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a burlap-like cloth underneath, creating a rustic and warm setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken thighs to ensure even cooking, but you can cook from frozen if your crockpot has a high setting. Just increase the cooking time and confirm the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

How do I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can simmer the sauce uncovered on high for longer to reduce and thicken naturally. Alternatively, add a small amount of arrowroot powder or a flour slurry as a substitute.