Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple and delicious recipe that combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and savory vegetables, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This easy crockpot meal is ideal for busy families, meal prep, or serving at a gathering. The dish features chicken tenderloins, bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, simmered in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. This recipe is a great choice for those looking for a healthy, low-maintenance dinner that’s full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken tenderloins
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ white onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks in pineapple juice
• 1 cup pineapple juice (from the can)
• ½ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

1. Begin by dicing the bell peppers, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are the same size as the pineapple chunks for an evenly distributed bite.
2. Place the chicken tenderloins, diced vegetables, and pineapple chunks into the crockpot.
3. In a separate bowl, mix ¾ cup of pineapple juice with the soy sauce and brown sugar, then pour over the ingredients in the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk the remaining ¼ cup of pineapple juice with the cornstarch until a smooth slurry forms. Add the slurry to the crockpot and mix to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well combined.

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Tips

• For best results, use chicken tenderloins, as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make sure to dice the vegetables and garlic finely to avoid large chunks in the dish.
• You can adjust the sweetness of this dish by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetable swaps: You can add or replace the bell peppers with other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for a different flavor and texture.
• For a spicier twist: Add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the crockpot.
• Soy sauce alternatives: If you’re watching sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but make sure to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly. You might also need to increase the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken over a bed of steamed white rice, or pair it with quinoa for a healthier twist. It also goes well with fried rice or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, with tender chicken and a tangy pineapple sauce. The convenience of the crockpot allows you to set it and forget it, while the vibrant colors and flavors make it a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to please. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to clean up!