Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, making it a family favorite. Serve it over rice with juicy pineapple chunks for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pineapple juice, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s both sweet and savory.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, noodles, or even on its own as a comforting comfort food option.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it in advance for busy days; it reheats beautifully without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need for this recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes tender and flavorful over time.
• Large skillet: Essential for browning the chicken and sautéing the onions, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Ingredients

For this delicious Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 3.8 lbs Chicken thighs (about 7 pcs) 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

For the 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

For the Slurry

• 1½ Tbsp corn starch
• 2 tbsp water

For Garnish

• chopped scallions
• roasted sesame seeds

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How to Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes until charred while stirring. Season with a pinch of salt, then add sliced garlic and julienned ginger. Cook for an additional 30 seconds before transferring to a bowl.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Place chicken thighs skin side down first. Brown them for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through cooking. Use a lid to prevent splatters.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine all sauce ingredients: water, pineapple juice, dark brown sugar, ketchup, Tshuyu soup base, vinegar, white pepper, and dark soy sauce. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, layer the bottom with cooked onions first. Next, add browned chicken thighs on top. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over everything. Close the lid and set to cook on high for 1½ hours. Remember to glaze the meat occasionally.

Step 5: Remove Excess Fat

Once cooking time is up, use a ladle to skim off any visible floating fat liquid from the top of the sauce.

Step 6: Add Slurry and Vegetables

Stir in the slurry mixture (cornstarch mixed with water) along with chopped red bell pepper into the slow cooker. Close the lid again and cook for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Up

Turn off the slow cooker once done cooking. Gently stir in pineapple chunks for added sweetness and garnish with chopped scallions and roasted sesame seeds before serving hot over rice.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken can be as fun as it is delicious. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its sweet and savory flavor profile. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice – A classic choice that absorbs the chicken’s flavorful sauce.
• Coconut Rice – Enhance the tropical vibe by cooking rice with coconut milk for added creaminess.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli – Lightly sautéed broccoli adds a fresh crunch and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• Grilled Asparagus – Charred asparagus offers a smoky element that complements the dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Scallions – Fresh scallions add a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Roasted Sesame Seeds – These add a nutty crunch, enhancing both texture and taste.

On Its Own

• Lettuce Wraps – For a lighter option, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps for a refreshing bite.
• Hawaiian Style Sliders – Use small buns to create delightful sliders with a scoop of the chicken, perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

To make your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Bone-In Thighs – Cooking with bone-in chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and tender throughout the slow-cooking process.
• Sear Before Slow Cooking – Searing the chicken adds depth of flavor and texture, making your dish more delicious.
• Adjust Sweetness – Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
• Add Fresh Pineapple at the End – Stirring in pineapple chunks just before serving ensures they stay juicy and fresh.
• Serve Immediately After Cooking – Enjoy your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken right away for the best taste and texture.
• Store Leftovers Properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Fried Rice – A tasty mix of vegetables and eggs stir-fried with rice makes for a satisfying addition.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchy freshness of coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the sticky chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs and lime can balance out the rich flavors of the main dish.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty side that everyone loves.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings in another layer of sweetness while being easy to prepare.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites of savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving delicious results.

• Skipping the Searing: Many people skip searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances flavor and texture, so take the time to do it!
• Overloading the Slow Cooker: Filling the cooker too much can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure not to exceed its capacity for best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: A common mistake is eyeballing ingredients instead of measuring them. Precise measurements ensure the sauce’s balance of flavors.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Disregarding the recommended cooking time can lead to dry chicken. Stick to the guidelines for perfect tenderness.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like scallions and sesame seeds can diminish presentation and flavor. Always add them for that final touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Freezing Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chicken to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place chicken in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly since it cooks faster than bone-in thighs.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?

Rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly, enhancing its sweet and savory flavors.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken?

You can add vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra nutrients or tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Is Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is an easy recipe that will impress your family with its tender meat and delightful flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or side dishes. Try this dish today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect any night of the week!