Description
Discover how to make Sweet Hawaiian crockpot chicken with juicy chicken, pineapple, and tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably a sweet or Hawaiian-style variety)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the bell peppers and draining the pineapple chunks. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Assemble in the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the pineapple chunks and chopped bell peppers on top. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and set it aside. Stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water into the sauce. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken over rice or alongside your favorite side dishes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness of the dish by tweaking the amount of brown sugar or choosing a barbecue sauce that matches your taste. If you prefer a more savory dish, reduce the sugar or use a less sweet sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh pineapple and vegetables. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also improve the texture and nutritional value of the dish.
- Add a Kick of Heat: If you enjoy spicy food, add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or sliced jalapeños to the sauce. The heat will complement the sweetness and add another layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables. This helps balance the sweetness and ensures a complete meal with plenty of textures and flavors.