Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is an ideal dinner that brings a burst of sweet and savory flavors to your table. Perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights, this dish features tender chicken simmered in a luscious sticky sauce. Pair it with rice and juicy pineapples, and you have a meal that everyone will love!

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient.

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set the timer, and let it do the work.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and spices creates a unique blend of sweet and savory that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Family-Friendly: With tender chicken and vibrant colors from the veggies, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or on its own for a satisfying meal any night of the week.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Ladle
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking while ensuring your chicken stays moist and flavorful.
• Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your sauce ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.

Ingredients

Ingredients
– 3.8 lbs Chicken thighs (about 7pcs) bone in, skin on
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1 pinch black pepper
– 1 Tbsp neutral oil
– 1 onion, large chopped
– 2 garlic cloves sliced
– 1 ginger knob julienned
– 1 red bell pepper chopped
– 1½ cup pineapple chunks

Sauce
– ½ cup water
– ½ cup pineapple juice canned
– 2 Tbsp dark brown sugar firmly packed
– 4 Tbsp ketchup
– 4 Tbsp Tshuyu Soup Base/Oigatsu concentrated
– 2 Tbsp vinegar
– ⅛ tsp white pepper
– 1 Tbsp dark soy sauce

Slurry
– 1½ Tbsp corn starch
– 2 tbsp water

Garnish
– chopped scallions
– roasted sesame seeds

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How to Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Onion

Heat oil in a large skillet on high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 1–2 minutes until charred while stirring. Add a pinch of salt, garlic, and ginger; cook for an additional 30 seconds. Set aside in a bowl.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Thighs

Using the same skillet, add a little oil if necessary. Cook chicken thighs skin-side down first for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through. Use the lid to avoid splattering.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker

Layer cooked onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place chicken thighs on top and drizzle the prepared sauce evenly over them. Close the lid and set the slow cooker on high for 1½ hours. Glaze the meat occasionally during cooking.

Step 5: Remove Fat Liquid

When cooking time is up, use a ladle to collect any visible floating fat liquid from the top and set it aside.

Step 6: Add Slurry and Vegetables

Add in the slurry mixture along with red pepper; stir gently. Close the lid again and cook for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Turn off the slow cooker. Stir in pineapple chunks just before serving. Garnish with chopped scallions and roasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or as desired!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken can elevate your family dinner or any gathering. This dish’s sweet and savory flavors make it versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides and garnishes that enhance its taste.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light and fragrant rice complements the sticky sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthy option that adds a nutty flavor, perfect for those looking for whole grains.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled, asparagus adds a fresh crunch to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: This green vegetable is packed with nutrients and pairs well with the sauce.

Garnished

• Chopped Scallions: Adds a fresh bite and vibrant color when sprinkled on top just before serving.
• Roasted Sesame Seeds: Provides a delightful crunch and nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use skin-on chicken thighs: This keeps the meat juicy during cooking and infuses more flavor into the dish.
• Sear chicken first: Browning the chicken thighs enhances their flavor and gives them a beautiful color before slow cooking.
• Opt for fresh ingredients: Using fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables can significantly improve the dish’s overall taste.
• Control the sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar or pineapple juice according to your preference for sweetness in the sauce.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest helps redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
• Serve hot over rice: The warm rice absorbs the sauce, making each serving deliciously satisfying.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful alternative that incorporates vegetables and protein, making it a hearty addition.
2. Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this sweet rice balances the savory flavors of the chicken nicely.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw brings freshness and a tangy contrast to the sweet chicken.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the dish’s flavors while adding nutrition.
5. Garlic Noodles: These flavorful noodles offer a delightful twist alongside your Hawaiian chicken.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that adds a crisp texture, perfect for balancing out the richness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always remember to use salt and pepper generously.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Packing too much chicken in the pot can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate.
• Not browning the chicken: Skipping the browning step can result in less flavor. A quick sear adds depth and richness to the dish.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: Using too much or too little of any sauce ingredient can throw off the taste. Measure accurately for a perfect blend of sweet and savory.
• Neglecting to glaze the meat: Forgetting to baste the chicken during cooking can lead to uneven flavor. Glaze it occasionally for an even coat of sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a delicious, tender dish made with chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory sauce with pineapple.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs; however, adjust cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.

How can I customize this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition or adjust sweetness by changing pineapple juice amounts.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?

Serve it with rice, quinoa, or noodles alongside steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it in your slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers delightful flavors that appeal to everyone. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that will be loved by your family!