Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

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Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

This dish features tender, juicy chicken thighs smothered in a vibrant sauce made from pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. As it slow-cooks, the sugars in the pineapple caramelize, creating a rich glaze that pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice.

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 3–4 hours (High) or 6–8 hours (Low)

  • Servings: 6 people

Ingredients

Category Item Amount
Protein Boneless, skinless chicken thighs 2 lbs
Fruit Pineapple chunks (with juice) 20 oz can
Sauce Base Low-sodium soy sauce ½ cup
Sweetener Brown sugar (packed) ½ cup
Aromatics Fresh ginger (minced) 1 tbsp
Aromatics Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Thickener Cornstarch 2 tbsp
Garnish Green onions & Sesame seeds To taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.

  2. Whisk the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice (drained from the can), soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.

  3. Combine: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Add the pineapple chunks on top.

  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours.

  5. Thicken the Glaze: About 30 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker.

  6. Final Touch: Let it cook for the remaining 30 minutes until the sauce is glossy and thick. Serve over rice.

Tips for Success

  • Thighs over Breasts: Use chicken thighs if possible. They stay succulent during long cook times, whereas breasts can become dry and “stringy.”

  • Sear for Flavor: If you have an extra 5 minutes, sear the chicken in a pan before putting it in the slow cooker to develop a deeper crust.

  • Fresh vs. Canned: Canned pineapple is actually better for the sauce because the heat process in canning kills an enzyme called bromelain, which can turn chicken into mush if left to marinate too long.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 345 kcal

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Fat: 9g

  • Sodium: 840mg

Benefit: This meal is high in Vitamin C and Manganese from the pineapple, supporting immune health and bone strength. Using ginger also provides natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?

A: It is generally recommended to thaw chicken first. Putting frozen meat in a slow cooker can keep the meat in the “danger zone” temperature for too long, posing a food safety risk.

Q: How do I make it spicy?

A: Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture before cooking.

Q: Can I add vegetables?

A: Absolutely. Red bell peppers and snap peas are great additions. Add them during the last 45 minutes of cooking so they stay crisp-tender.

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