Lorenzo Devereaux
If you need a sweet-and-savory dinner that basically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is your answer. Imagine melt-in-your-mouth chicken simmered in a sticky pineapple-soy glaze with tender onions and garlic mingling in every bite. It’s one of those set-it-and-forget-it meals that transforms humble ingredients into tropical comfort food.
The magic lies in the combination of tangy pineapple, rich umami soy sauce, and just a hint of brown sugar to caramelize into a glossy sauce. Serve it over rice, toss it in lettuce wraps, or pile it onto a toasted bun for a tropical BBQ-style sandwich. However you dish it up, it’s a dinner everyone will ask for again.
What Kind of Chicken Works Best for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender even after hours in the slow cooker. However, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure not to overcook them—they shred beautifully but can get dry if left too long.
Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Chicken Thighs or Breasts
The star protein—they absorb all the tropical flavors while staying tender and moist.
Pineapple Chunks with Juice
Adds natural sweetness and acidity that brightens the entire dish.
Soy Sauce
Brings deep, salty umami to balance the sweet pineapple.
Brown Sugar
Enhances the glaze with a caramel-like richness.
Garlic and Onion
Savory aromatics that deepen the flavor profile.
Ginger
Gives the sauce warmth and a light zing, pairing well with pineapple.
Cornstarch Slurry (optional)
Used at the end to thicken the sauce to a rich, sticky glaze.
Fresh Parsley or Green Onions (for garnish)
Brightens the final dish with a pop of color and freshness.
How To Make the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Flavorful)
If you have a few extra minutes, sear the chicken in a hot skillet with a touch of oil before adding it to the slow cooker. This step deepens the flavor and helps lock in moisture.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice (from the canned chunks), soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped onion. This is your tropical marinade.
Step 3: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over it, then add the pineapple chunks on top. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return it to the pot and stir it into the sauce.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you like a thicker glaze, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water, then cook on HIGH for another 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions and serve over fluffy rice, in buns, or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
How to Serve and Store Your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Once ready, this Hawaiian chicken shines when spooned over a bed of jasmine or coconut rice. The juicy, tangy glaze seeps into the rice, turning it into a flavor-packed foundation. If you’re planning for a crowd, keep the chicken warm in the slow cooker and let guests serve themselves buffet-style.
Leftovers? They store beautifully. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the saucy goodness.
What to Serve With Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Coconut Rice
Its creamy sweetness complements the tangy pineapple and savory chicken sauce.
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Use them to make little sliders with the chicken — perfect for parties.
Grilled Pineapple Spears
Enhance the tropical vibe with charred, caramelized fruit.
Cucumber Salad
Adds crunch and freshness to balance the rich chicken.
Macaroni Salad
A classic Hawaiian side dish that pairs well with warm chicken.
Roasted Broccoli
The earthy roasted flavor balances the sweetness of the glaze.
Garlic Green Beans
Bright and garlicky, they add a savory green note to the meal.
Fried Plantains
Crispy and sweet, they’re a unique and fun pairing with this tropical main.
Want More Chicken Ideas with a Tropical Twist?
If you love this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken, here are some other juicy and satisfying recipes to explore:
- Sweet Hawaiian Crock Pot Chicken for an even sweeter twist.
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you love that rich, savory cream sauce finish.
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a romantic comfort food night.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni when you’re craving pasta with bold flavor.
- Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for a quick and crispy dinner.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use chicken thighs or breasts? Add a spicy kick or stick to sweet and savory?
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Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks with juice
- 0.5 cup soy sauce
- 0.33 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Optional: Sear the chicken in a skillet until browned for extra flavor.
- Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and onion in a bowl.
- Place chicken in the slow cooker. Pour sauce over and top with pineapple chunks.
- Cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Shred chicken, return to slow cooker, and mix with sauce.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry, cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Garnish and serve hot.