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Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

pineapple chicken

Sweet and savory slow cooker Hawaiian chicken with pineapple and bell peppers.

Tender chicken thighs in a tropical sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Serve over rice for a complete meal that transports you straight to the islands.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 34 green onions, sliced for garnish
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
  • Steamed rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Place chicken thighs in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add pineapple chunks, chopped bell peppers, and sliced red onion over the chicken.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, black pepper, and pineapple juice until sugar dissolves.
  4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and reaches 165°F internal temperature.
  6. About 30 minutes before serving, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker.
  7. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the slow cooker. Turn to high and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
  8. Before serving, sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  9. Serve over steamed rice, spooning extra sauce over the top.

Notes

For best results, use chicken thighs as they stay more tender than breasts during slow cooking.

Add a splash of rice vinegar or fresh lime juice at the end to brighten flavors if desired.

This dish freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker hawaiian chicken, hawaiian chicken, pineapple chicken, tropical chicken, slow cooker chicken