1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to increase the cooking time by a couple of hours. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply add it to the slow cooker with the chicken whenever you are ready to cook.

3. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done cooking when it is tender and shreds easily with forks. An internal temperature of 165°F indicates that it is safe to eat.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They will add extra flavor and richness due to their higher fat content.

5. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it in a wrap or sandwich for a quick meal option.

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Description

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is sweet, savory, and irresistibly tender. With pineapple juice, garlic, and a hint of ginger, it’s the perfect balance of tropical flavor and comfort food. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups pineapple juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Optional: chopped bell peppers, pineapple chunks, chopped green onions, sesame seeds

Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the pineapple juice until smooth, then add brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, onion powder, and ginger (if using). Simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to coat in the sauce. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with steamed veggies.
Optional: Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or pineapple chunks before serving.

Notes

To make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for even juicier meat.
Add bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a tender-crisp bite.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 310
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: undefined
Trans Fat: undefined
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: slow cooker hawaiian chicken, pineapple chicken, easy crockpot dinner, sweet and savory chicken, Hawaiian chicken recipe