Let me tell you, this recipe is pure magic! Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table. Think tender, juicy chicken swimming in a sweet and savory sauce that’s loaded with tropical vibes. The best part? Your crockpot does all the heavy lifting while you sit back, relax, and enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen. Trust me, this dish will make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a Hawaiian island—minus the jet lag.
Why You’ll Love Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your weekly lineup:
Effortless Comfort Food: Toss a few simple ingredients into your crockpot, and let it work its slow-cooking magic. Perfect for busy days when you crave something hearty without breaking a sweat.
Tropical Flavor Explosion: The sweet pineapple paired with savory soy sauce creates an irresistible glaze that’ll have everyone licking their plates.
Kid-Approved: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist this dish. The sweetness is a surefire hit!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, and you’ve got flavorful lunches or dinners ready for the week.
Customizable Goodness: Add a little spice, swap proteins, or mix in veggies—it’s incredibly versatile.

Ingredients
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Ingredients in Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender, and the perfect base for soaking up all that sweet and savory sauce.
Pineapple Chunks: Sweet bursts of tropical flavor. Use fresh or canned, depending on what you have.
Soy Sauce: The salty backbone of the sauce that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness to enhance the pineapple.
Garlic: Because no great dish is complete without a hint of garlicky goodness.
Cornstarch: The secret to creating that glossy, thick sauce that clings to every bite.
Optional Garnishes: Fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor, plus sesame seeds for crunch.
Instructions
Let’s bring this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken to life!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chop your pineapple (if using fresh), mince the garlic, and set aside everything you’ll need. Having it all ready to go makes this recipe a breeze.
Step 2: Load the Crockpot
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. Add the pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic on top. Give it a gentle stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 3: Set It and Forget It
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become fork-tender, and the sauce will infuse every bite.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce, letting it thicken as the crockpot works its final magic.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for a finishing touch. Enjoy the tropical vibes!
How to Serve Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
With Rice: Serve over jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all that luscious sauce.
Veggie Pairings: Pair with roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a crunchy Asian slaw.
Tropical Twist: Add a side of coconut rice or grilled pineapple slices for extra island vibes.
Additional Tips
Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili flakes or Sriracha if you love a little heat.
Protein Swap: Try boneless chicken breasts or even pork chops for a fun twist.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes! Fresh pineapple works beautifully in this recipe, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Q2: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra volume.
Q3: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Q4: Can I skip the cornstarch?
If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can skip the cornstarch, but the sauce won’t be as glossy or thick.
Q5: Can I add vegetables?
Of course! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots make great additions. Add them during the last hour of cooking.
Q6: Can I make it spicy?
Yes! A pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce will add a nice kick.
Q7: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes.
Q8: Can I use frozen chicken?
For food safety, it’s best to thaw frozen chicken before adding it to the crockpot.
Q9: What’s the best rice to serve with this?
Jasmine or basmati rice pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors.
Q10: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on manual for 10 minutes, then use a quick release.
Conclusion
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a dish that makes dinner feel like a mini vacation. With its tropical sweetness, tender chicken, and easy prep, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Trust me, your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
PrintSweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
A sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner. Juicy chicken chunks simmer in pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering glaze that’s bursting with tropical flavor. Add pineapple chunks, onion, and green peppers for a colorful twist!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: ~6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken chunks (2 lbs): White or dark meat, depending on your preference.
- Pineapple juice (1 cup): Adds sweetness and tropical flair.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup, firmly packed): For a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Soy sauce (⅓ cup): Balances the sweetness with a savory kick.
- Pineapple chunks (1 medium can, optional): Enhances the tropical taste.
- Small onion (1, chopped, optional): Adds subtle sweetness.
- Green pepper (chunks, optional): For a fresh, crisp element.
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Place the chicken chunks, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and optional ingredients (pineapple chunks, onion, and green pepper) into a slow cooker.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Stir before serving to coat the chicken in the flavorful sauce. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken at the end of cooking and mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir into the sauce, then cook on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- You can substitute chicken chunks with chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra tenderness.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding a little more or less brown sugar based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: ~210
- Sugar: ~12g
- Sodium: ~650mg
- Fat: ~3g
- Saturated Fat: ~1g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~30g
- Cholesterol: ~85mg