Delicious Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

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Sticky, savory-sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth tender—this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is everything you want in a comfort dish. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, this slow cooker recipe turns plain chicken into a sticky, tropical-flavored dinner that hits all the right notes. The juicy bites are coated in a glossy, caramelized sauce that bursts with sweet pineapple, salty soy, and rich brown sugar.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is one to save. It pairs easily with rice, noodles, or roasted veggies, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend dinners, this is a no-fuss chicken dinner that delivers big flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

• It’s a true dump-and-go recipe—just toss it all in the crockpot.
• Only uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
• The sauce thickens perfectly as it cooks, no need for extra steps.
• Great for leftovers and freezer-friendly.
• Delicious served over rice or wrapped into a sandwich bun.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal here. They soak up flavor and stay moist throughout the slow cook. However, you can absolutely use boneless chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cook time—breasts can dry out faster than thighs. If you like a little texture, consider searing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot to add a deeper flavor layer.

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Ingredients for the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Each ingredient plays a key role in building the sticky-sweet flavor base for this Hawaiian-inspired dish.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy even after hours in the crockpot.
• Pineapple Juice: Delivers bright tropical sweetness and a hint of acidity to balance the sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Helps create that rich, sticky glaze.
• Soy Sauce: Brings a salty, umami punch that balances the sweet notes.
• Garlic (minced): Adds depth and savory aroma.
• Cornstarch (optional): To thicken the sauce if needed.
• Chopped Green Onions: For a pop of freshness and mild onion flavor at the end.
• Sesame Seeds (optional): Adds nutty crunch for serving.

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How To Make the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Place your boneless chicken thighs in the base of the crockpot in an even layer. You can leave them whole or cut into chunks depending on your serving style.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fork-tender and easily shred with a spoon.

Step 4: Thicken (Optional)

If you’d like a thicker glaze, remove the chicken and whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch into the sauce. Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until thickened, then return the chicken to the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Serve over white rice, coconut rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

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How to Serve and Store Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

This recipe makes enough to serve 4 to 6 people, depending on side dishes. Serve it hot from the crockpot over fluffy jasmine rice, or use it to fill warm bao buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool fully and transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

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What to Serve With Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?

Coconut Rice

The subtle sweetness of coconut rice perfectly complements the sticky pineapple glaze.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Add a caramelized, smoky touch to reinforce the tropical flavors.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Bright and crisp, they balance out the richness of the dish.

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Creamy, tangy, and cool—a classic island-style side dish.

Cabbage Slaw

A crunchy slaw with vinegar dressing adds freshness and crunch.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their earthy sweetness is a delicious match with the saucy chicken.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple, clean, and green—a nutritious pairing with the bold sauce.

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Use them to make juicy mini chicken sliders.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken, you’ll definitely enjoy these other flavorful chicken favorites:

• Try the cozy and creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for an indulgent twist.
• Need something hearty? Our Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken delivers on crunch and flavor.
• For a baked favorite, check out Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole that’s perfect for feeding a family.
• Get tropical again with Homemade Pollo Loco Juicy Chicken.
• Spice things up with Buffalo Chicken Lasagna for a bold weeknight twist.

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And if you try this recipe, I’d love to know how it turned out! Did you add extra heat? Serve it over rice or noodles? Your tips help others make it even better.

Explore more family-friendly and flavor-packed meals on my Pinterest at Nora Nosh Recipes.

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