Hawaiian Chicken in Crock Pot
a busy parent, finding tasty meals for the whole family can be tough. But today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and great for weeknights. Say hello to the irresistible Hawaiian chicken, slow-cooked in your crock pot.
This dish brings the tropics to your table. It combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple, tangy barbecue sauce, and savory seasonings. The slow-cooking makes the flavors blend perfectly, creating a dish that’s irresistible.
Looking to please your family or impress guests? This easy Hawaiian chicken recipe is your go-to. It requires little prep and cooks itself, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without stress. Get ready to taste Hawaii’s sunshine right in your home.
Table of Contents
Why This Hawaiian Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Family Favorite
Looking for a tasty, easy meal for your family? Try this easy crock pot hawaiian chicken recipe. It’s a mix of sweet and savory that will be a hit at home.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This family-friendly meal is simple to make. Just a few ingredients and some prep, and you’re set. Put the chicken, teriyaki sauce, and spices in the slow cooker. Then, just forget about it until dinner time. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you’re short on time.
Budget-Friendly Meal Option
This easy crock pot hawaiian chicken recipe is also budget-friendly. It uses affordable chicken and pantry items. So, you can feed your family without spending a lot. It’s a delicious, cost-effective option.
Versatile Serving Options
This easy crock pot hawaiian chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it with rice, in sandwiches, or in tacos. The flavors work well with many sides, making it a favorite for any meal.
“This Hawaiian chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy families. It’s so easy to make, and the flavors are absolutely incredible. My kids devour it every time!”
– Sarah, Satisfied Crockpot Cook
Essential Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken in Crock Pot
To make delicious Hawaiian Chicken in your crock pot, you need the right ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for protein. Then, add canned crushed pineapple for a sweet and tangy touch.
For the sauce, mix barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce with garlic and onion powder. You can also add diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Using pineapple in 100% juice is key for authentic Hawaiian Chicken. It lets the fruit’s natural sweetness balance with the savory flavors. For a healthier option, try sugar-free barbecue sauce.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 1/2 lbs. |
| Canned crushed pineapple (in 100% juice) | 20 oz. |
| Barbecue sauce | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tsp. |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tsp. |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 tsp. |
| Onion powder | 1/4 tsp. |
| Bell peppers (optional) | 1 red, 1 yellow, diced |
With these chicken pineapple juice soy sauce ingredients, you’re set to make a tasty crock pot hawaiian chicken dish. It’s sure to please your family’s taste buds.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty Hawaiian chicken dish in your crock pot, you’ll need some basic tools. The main tool is a slow cooker or Crock-Pot. It will cook the chicken slowly until it’s perfect.
You’ll also need a sharp knife or kitchen shears. These are for cutting the chicken into small pieces before cooking.
Slow Cooker Specifications
Choose a slow cooker that’s at least 4 to 6 quarts big. This size is good for a big batch of Hawaiian chicken. Look for one with a tempered glass lid and a warm setting. These features help keep your dish warm and ready to eat.
Additional Helpful Tools
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurately portioning out the ingredients
- Forks – for shredding the cooked chicken once it’s done
- Airtight containers – for storing any leftover Hawaiian chicken
Optional Equipment
While a slow cooker is key, you might also want an Instant Pot. It’s great for those who are short on time. The Instant Pot cooks faster, perfect for busy days.
With the right crock pot for hawaiian chicken and some kitchen tools for slow cooking, you’re ready to make a tasty Hawaiian chicken dish. Your family will love it.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Getting ready for the tasty how to make hawaiian chicken in crock pot or slow cooker hawaiian chicken recipe is easy. Just follow these simple steps. You’ll make a delicious Hawaiian chicken dish that everyone will enjoy.
- Dice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes.
- In the slow cooker, mix together the sauce ingredients: pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Add the diced chicken to the slow cooker. Make sure it’s coated well with the sauce.
- Cook the hawaiian chicken in crock pot on low for 3.5 to 4 hours. Or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours. Wait until the chicken is cooked and reaches 165°F (74°C).
- After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. This lets it mix with the sauce again.
By following these steps, you’ll get a tasty slow cooker hawaiian chicken recipe for dinner or meal prep. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature for food safety.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 people |
| Calories per Serving | 400 |
“The secret to the perfect slow cooker hawaiian chicken recipe is in the balance of sweet and savory flavors.”
The Perfect Sauce Combination
The secret to this sweet Hawaiian slow cooker chicken is the sauce mix. Mixing pineapple juice, soy sauce, and barbecue sauce creates a sweet and savory blend. It’s so good, your family will want more.
Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors
Pineapple juice brings a tropical sweetness. Soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add a tangy, savory depth. This mix makes a Hawaiian chicken sauce that’s both tasty and balanced.
Sauce Thickness Tips
For the right sauce thickness, try using crushed pineapple instead of juice. As it cooks, the pineapple will thicken the sauce. You can also reduce the sauce to get it just right.
Customization Options
- Add a spicy kick with hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Make it sweeter with more brown sugar or pineapple juice.
- Try it with pork or beef for a different twist.
- Add fresh or roasted veggies like bell peppers or carrots for a full meal.
This Hawaiian chicken recipe is all about trying new things. Get creative and adjust the flavors to your liking. You’ll find the perfect sauce mix that makes this dish unforgettable.
Cooking Times and Temperature Guidelines
Preparing the perfect Hawaiian chicken in your crockpot requires attention to cooking time and temperature. The recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These cook quickly in the slow cooker.
For the best results, cook the chicken on low heat for 3.5 to 4 hours. Or, cook on high heat for 2 to 2.5 hours. If using frozen chicken, add 45 minutes to an hour to the cooking time.
Always use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving. This ensures the chicken is safe and perfectly cooked.
If you prefer using an Instant Pot, cooking is even quicker. For fresh chicken breasts, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. For frozen chicken, cook for 12 minutes on high pressure.
| Cooking Method | Fresh Chicken | Frozen Chicken |
|---|---|---|
| Crockpot (Low) | 3.5-4 hours | 4.5-5 hours |
| Crockpot (High) | 2-2.5 hours | 2.75-3.5 hours |
| Instant Pot | 8 minutes | 12 minutes |
The cooking times may vary slightly based on your slow cooker model and chicken weight. Always use a meat thermometer for safety and flavor.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Once your Hawaiian chicken in the crock pot is ready, you can serve it in many ways. This crock pot chicken meal idea can be made even better. Try different options to make your family love it.
Rice and Grain Options
Serve the Hawaiian chicken over fluffy white rice for a classic choice. Or, go for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
Sandwich Variations
Make a tasty sandwich with the Hawaiian chicken. Use soft buns or rolls and add crisp coleslaw for extra flavor and texture.
Side Dish Pairings
Pair the Hawaiian chicken with fresh side dishes. Try sautéed veggies, a purple cabbage slaw, or roasted spaghetti squash for a low-carb choice.
Make your Hawaiian chicken dish look and taste better. Add fresh cilantro, green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes.
With these creative ideas, your Hawaiian chicken from the crock pot will be a hit. It’s versatile and delicious, making every bite a treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Hawaiian chicken is a treat to enjoy later. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 6 months.
To reheat, you have a few choices. In the microwave, place chicken on a safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes. Add water, chicken broth, or pineapple juice to keep it moist. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven at 350°F until it’s hot.
Always let the chicken cool down before storing it. And make sure it reaches 165°F when reheating for safety. Following these steps will keep your Hawaiian chicken tasty for days.