Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple and flavorful meal with a tropical twist! This slow cooker chicken is tender, sweet, and savory—perfect for any busy day. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet pineapple creates a delightful dish that will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors of the marinade. The addition of pineapple adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served over rice or enjoyed on its own, making it a delightful meal for everyone.
Introduction:
If you’re looking for a dish that combines ease and flavor, look no further than Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. This recipe is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that can be prepared with just a few simple ingredients. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- ½ pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces small can of pineapple chunks with juice
- Scallions for garnish (optional)
- Rice for serving (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Step 3: Add the diced red bell pepper and the pineapple chunks (along with their juice) to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The longer cooking time on low will yield a more tender chicken.
Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last half hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also accompany it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a festive touch, garnish with sliced scallions or toasted sesame seeds.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before cooking. Just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
- Sweetness adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or add a splash of honey.
- Leftovers: This chicken makes excellent leftovers! Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time:
4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 300 (per serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion:
Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the tropics right to your dinner table. Its simple preparation, combined with the tantalizing taste of sweet pineapple and savory chicken, makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this meal is sure to be a hit. So grab your slow cooker and let the magic happen!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low or 30 minutes on high to ensure they cook thoroughly.
2. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. You can also use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, sriracha, or diced jalapeños to the marinade or directly into the slow cooker.
4. Is it possible to make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! To make this in an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the chicken briefly before adding the other ingredients. Then, cook on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes, followed by a quick release.
5. Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe works well with pork or turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking durations.
This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a perfect fusion of sweet pineapple and savory chicken. It’s an easy meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for a hassle-free dinner!