Looking for a tropical twist on your next slow cooker meal? This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken simmered in a tangy-sweet pineapple sauce with a touch of island flavor. It’s the perfect dump-and-go dinner that tastes like a Hawaiian vacation in a bowl.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something vibrant and comforting, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Serve it over rice for a hearty weeknight dinner or as a party crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- Bursting with sweet and savory flavors
- Made with pantry staples and fresh ingredients
- Cooks while you go about your day
- Great for families, potlucks, or freezer meals
- Pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or noodles
Ingredients for Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks (drained, juice reserved)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (from the can)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Optional Toppings:
- Green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh pineapple chunks
How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Place chicken thighs or breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Brown sugar
- Soy sauce
- Pineapple juice
- Vinegar
- Garlic
- Ginger
Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Pineapple and Peppers
Add the drained pineapple chunks and chopped bell peppers on top.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on:
- Low for 6–7 hours
- High for 3–4 hours
The chicken should be tender and easily shredded.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In the last 30 minutes of cooking:
- Mix cornstarch and water into a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker.
- Let cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Shred or Slice Chicken
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, or slice before serving. Stir it well to coat with sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Over:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Coconut rice for extra island flavor
- Quinoa for a protein-rich base
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Rice noodles or lo mein-style noodles
Great Side Ideas:
- Grilled pineapple slices
- Cucumber salad or slaw
- Stir-fried green beans or snap peas
- Roasted sweet potatoes or carrots
Tips for Perfect Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor
- Drain pineapple chunks to avoid excess liquid
- Fresh pineapple added at the end gives a sweet bite
- Cut peppers evenly so they cook uniformly
- Taste before serving – you can balance sweetness or saltiness with lemon or soy sauce
Make It a Freezer Meal
This crockpot chicken is ideal for batch cooking or prepping ahead.
How to Freeze:
- In a large freezer bag, add raw chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and pineapple juice.
- Seal and freeze flat for space-saving storage.
To Cook from Frozen:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge
- Dump into crockpot and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours
Storage and Reheating
Store in the Refrigerator:
- Let cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
- Microwave individual servings
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce
Freeze Cooked Chicken:
- Freeze in meal-size portions for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight and reheat as above
Variations and Additions
Spicy Hawaiian Chicken:
Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a splash of sriracha for a sweet-spicy combo.
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken:
Replace half the soy sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky finish.
Tropical Twist:
Add mango or papaya chunks for a deeper fruit-forward flavor.
Teriyaki Style:
Swap soy sauce + sugar with 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce and reduce vinegar.
What Makes This Dish “Hawaiian”?
While this recipe is not a traditional Hawaiian dish, it captures that island-style flavor profile by blending:
- Sweet tropical fruit (pineapple)
- Savory and salty soy-based sauces
- Asian-inspired aromatics like ginger and garlic
- Bright bell peppers for color and crunch
It’s inspired by Hawaiian BBQ-style dishes commonly served at casual restaurants and luau gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you’ll need to add 1 extra hour to the cook time. Always cook until internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Definitely! Chicken breasts are leaner but still work beautifully when slow-cooked.
Can I make it in the Instant Pot?
Yes. Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes, then natural release. Use the sauté function to thicken the sauce afterward.
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or flour can work in a pinch. Mix with water to form a slurry before adding.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken. Add later in the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Final Thoughts on Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe is easy, flavorful, and full of tropical charm. With tender shredded chicken, vibrant peppers, and juicy pineapple all soaking in a sweet and savory sauce, it brings both comfort and fun to your dinner table.
It’s perfect for those nights when you want something low effort but high reward. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal cleanup.
Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or on a bed of greens—this dish is bound to become a regular in your crockpot rotation.
