Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Get ready to experience a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors with this slow cooker Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe. This dish with its tropical influences brings a refreshing twist to your regular chicken dinner. The blend of pineapple and honey gives it a sweet tang, balanced by the savory tones of soy sauce and ginger. With a slow cooker at your disposal, this recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends.

Photos of Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe

All the ingredients for this recipe are common and easy to find in any supermarket. However, if you're not a regular in the Asian cuisine aisle, you may want to familiarize yourself with soy sauce and sesame seeds. Both are staples in many Asian dishes and provide distinct flavors in this recipe. Soy sauce brings a salty and umami flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple, while sesame seeds add a slight crunch and nutty taste.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Chicken thighs: A tender and juicy cut that absorbs all the flavors you cook it in.

Pineapple: Adds a tropical sweetness and tang, balancing the savory elements.

Yellow onion: Gives a subtle sweetness and flavor base to the dish.

Honey: Adds richness and another layer of sweetness to the dish.

Soy sauce: Provides a salty, savory, and umami flavor.

Dark brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes, giving depth to the dish.

Ginger: Gives a spicy, aromatic kick to the dish.

Garlic cloves: Contributes a robust flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Sesame seeds: Add a slight crunch and nutty taste.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, giving it a luscious and glossy finish.

Red bell pepper: Adds color and a slightly sweet flavor.

Parsley: Used for garnish, providing a hint of freshness.

One reader, Eddi Watkins says:

This slow cooker Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a tropical delight, and the chicken comes out so tender and juicy. It's incredibly easy to make and always impresses my guests. I love the sweet and savory combination - it's a definite winner in my book!

Eddi Watkins

Techniques for Preparing Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

How to brown the chicken thighs: In a skillet or the cast aluminum slow cooker insert, brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 3 to 5 minutes over high heat. This will help to seal in the juices and add flavor to the chicken.

How to mix the cornstarch: Add the cornstarch to a tablespoon of water and mix until it forms a smooth slurry. This will help thicken the sauce in the slow cooker.

How to garnish with parsley: Simply sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the finished dish before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal flavor.

How To Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

This Hawaiian pineapple chicken is made with tender chicken thighs, soaked in a sweet and savory honey-ginger sauce, then slow-cooked to juicy perfection.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours 30 minutes

Total: 3 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken thighs,bone-in, skin on
2cupspineapple,cut into 1-inch chunks
1yellow onion,cut into 1-inch chunks
3tbsphoney
2tbspsoy sauce
½cupdark brown sugar
1tbspginger,grated
2garlic cloves,minced
2tspsesame seeds,optional
1tbspcornstarch
1red bell pepper,cut into 1-inch chunks
parsley,for garnish

Instructions

Using a skillet or the cast aluminum slow cooker insert, brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 3 to 5 minutes over high heat. Remove them from the slow cooker.
Add the pineapple and onion to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Mix the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic into the slow cooker.
Carefully add the chicken thighs back into the slow cooker. Cook on Low for 5 hours or on High for about 3 hours.
Add the cornstarch to a tablespoon of water. Mix and add to the slow cooker with the bell peppers, then let it cook for about 30 minutes.
Serve and garnish with parsley, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 631.53kcal
Fat: 33.12g
Saturated Fat: 8.88g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.11g
Carbohydrates: 50.35g
Fiber: 2.79g
Sugar: 41.33g
Protein: 34.20g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 607.69mg
Calcium: 75.07mg
Potassium: 699.78mg
Iron: 2.56mg
Vitamin A: 109.78µg
Vitamin C: 85.48mg

Expert Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

When browning the chicken thighs, make sure your skillet or slow cooker insert is hot before adding the meat. This will ensure a nice, crispy sear on the outside, which adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Also, don't overcrowd the pan. If the thighs are too close together, they will steam instead of sear. If necessary, brown them in batches for the best results.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Slow Cooker Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut ingredients: Consider using pre-cut pineapple and pre-chopped onions to save time on prep work.

Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and to save time on washing up.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, use the time to prepare side dishes or set the table to save time later.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with bone-in chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks are a suitable substitute for chicken thighs in slow cooker recipes, as they have a similar texture and will absorb the flavors of the dish well.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can be used as a substitute for pineapple in this recipe to provide a sweet and tropical flavor, while still maintaining the fruity element of the dish.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for yellow onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, adding a rich and distinct sweetness to the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, can be used in place of soy sauce to maintain the savory and umami flavor in the recipe.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for dark brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing the same warm and spicy flavor to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a convenient alternative with a slightly milder flavor.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped macadamia nuts: Chopped macadamia nuts can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the sauce in the recipe, providing a similar thickening effect.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Presentation Tips for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Elevate the plating: Arrange the slow-cooked Hawaiian pineapple chicken in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate colorful elements such as the red bell peppers and green parsley to add visual interest and vibrancy to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out and create a visually striking presentation.
Garnish with sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish to add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that the components of the dish are thoughtfully arranged to create a harmonious and balanced composition on the plate.
Emphasize the pineapple: Highlight the star ingredient, pineapple, by incorporating it into the plating design to showcase its tropical and refreshing essence.
Consider the plate shape and size: Select an appropriate plate that complements the dish and allows for artistic plating while maintaining a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Add a touch of elegance with a drizzle: Consider drizzling a reduction or glaze around the plate to add a touch of elegance and elevate the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering food at a low temperature over a long period of time.
Cast aluminum slow cooker insert: The removable cooking vessel inside the slow cooker, made of cast aluminum for even heat distribution.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing, and stirring.
Tablespoon: A large spoon used for serving and eating, typically measuring about 15 milliliters.
Teaspoon: A small spoon used for stirring and measuring, typically holding about 5 milliliters.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and turning food.
Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.
Measuring spoons: A set of spoons used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Leftovers

Let the slow cooker hawaiian pineapple chicken cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
If storing in the refrigerator, consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
When freezing, remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen slow cooker hawaiian pineapple chicken can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the contents to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
If the sauce appears thin after reheating, you can thicken it by mixing a small amount of cornstarch with water and stirring it into the sauce.
- Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
Garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds before serving the reheated dish for a fresh and appealing presentation.

Reheating Leftover Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover hawaiian pineapple chicken to a saucepan and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is simmering. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure even reheating without drying out the chicken or causing the sauce to burn.
Microwave method: place the leftover hawaiian pineapple chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid. Reheat on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is steaming. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the sauce to splatter.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover hawaiian pineapple chicken to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. This method is ideal if you have a large amount of leftovers or if you want to reheat the dish alongside other items in the oven.
Slow cooker method: if you have a small amount of leftover hawaiian pineapple chicken, you can reheat it in your slow cooker. Simply transfer the leftovers to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is simmering. This method is convenient if you're not in a rush and want to keep the chicken warm for an extended period.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the hawaiian pineapple chicken occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. Additionally, you may need to add a splash of water, chicken broth, or pineapple juice to the dish if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

Interesting Trivia About Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple is a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote overall health.

Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

This slow cooker Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken thighs, pineapple, and onion, are reasonably priced and widely available. The addition of honey, soy sauce, and ginger may slightly increase the cost, but these are staple pantry items that can be used in various dishes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an affordable and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Dish Healthy?

This slow cooker Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like chicken thighs, pineapple, onion, ginger, garlic, and bell pepper. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of added sugar from the honey, brown sugar, and pineapple, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly. Additionally, the soy sauce adds sodium to the dish, which may be a concern for those watching their salt intake.

To make this recipe healthier:

Reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar, or replace them with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract
Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute
Increase the proportion of vegetables by adding more bell peppers, carrots, or green beans
Serve the chicken with a side of cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and reduce the overall carbohydrate intake
Use skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breasts to reduce the fat content

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

The slow cooker Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of pineapple, honey, and soy sauce creates a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the tender chicken thighs. The addition of bell peppers adds a pop of color and freshness, while the aromatic ginger and garlic infuse the dish with a tantalizing aroma. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the delicious pineapple chicken sauce.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory pineapple chicken.

Coconut Rice: Fluffy coconut-infused rice, a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the Hawaiian flavors of the pineapple chicken.

Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Mango Avocado Salad: This refreshing mango avocado salad is a delightful mix of sweet and creamy, with a zesty lime dressing that brings all the flavors together.

Coconut Shrimp Curry: Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of this coconut shrimp curry, with tender shrimp simmered in a creamy coconut sauce and a blend of fragrant spices.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating shrimp in a crispy coconut breading. Fry until golden brown and serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful and crunchy treat.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness. The perfect dessert for any chocolate lover.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy, velvety texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with fresh, juicy strawberries for a burst of fruity flavor.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe:

This recipe uses chicken thighs for a flavorful and juicy result, combined with pineapple and onion for a tropical twist. The addition of honey and brown sugar brings a perfect balance of sweetness, while soy sauce and ginger add depth of flavor. The use of slow cooker ensures tender and succulent chicken, and the incorporation of bell pepper adds a pop of color and freshness. With these quality ingredients, this Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe promises a delightful and satisfying meal.

If you're a fan of this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe, share your thoughts and experiences with it in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used in place of canned pineapple. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Simply brown the chicken in a skillet, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.

Is there a substitute for dark brown sugar?

If you don't have dark brown sugar, you can use an equal amount of light brown sugar or granulated sugar mixed with a small amount of molasses for a similar flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, this recipe can be prepared in advance and reheated later. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.