This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a warm tropical hug on a plate. Infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple, a touch of brown sugar, and savory soy sauce, this dish effortlessly transforms everyday chicken into something special. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma and brings the whole family to the table without complaint.

Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort. With tender shredded chicken, juicy chunks of pineapple, and a thick, glossy sauce, every bite feels like a vacation. Serve it over rice or with roasted potatoes for an unforgettable meal.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay moist and tender after hours in the slow cooker. However, chicken breasts will also work if you prefer leaner meat. Just be mindful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Chicken Thighs: Juicy and rich, they soak up the sweet-savory sauce beautifully.

Pineapple Chunks (with juice): They add tropical sweetness and a slight tang, which balances the soy sauce perfectly.

Soy Sauce: Gives the dish that salty, umami backbone essential for depth.

Brown Sugar: Brings a molasses-like richness and blends seamlessly into the sauce.

Garlic: A few cloves minced elevate the savoriness of the entire dish.

Ginger: Adds brightness and a mild spicy warmth.

Red Bell Pepper (optional): For color and crunch if you’d like a veggie component.

Cornstarch (for slurry): Thickens the sauce at the end for that glossy, cling-to-the-fork finish.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer. Trim excess fat if needed, but don’t worry too much—it adds flavor and richness to the sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice (from the can), soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred with a fork.

Step 4: Shred and Sauce

Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. In a small bowl, stir together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 3 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker, then return the shredded chicken and stir to coat.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for another 20-30 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add diced red bell pepper during this step if using, so it remains crisp-tender.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Hawaiian chicken hot over fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

How to Serve and Store This Dish

Serve Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken hot and fresh over jasmine or basmati rice, or even coconut rice for a flavor boost. It’s also excellent with mashed sweet potatoes or crispy roasted baby potatoes. A crisp cucumber salad or lightly steamed green beans on the side will bring refreshing contrast.

For leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It also freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple chunks, but be sure to add a bit of pineapple juice or water to ensure the sauce has enough liquid to cook properly.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes if you’re avoiding soy. Just taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the “Poultry” or “Manual” setting for about 10-12 minutes and do a natural release. Then follow the same shredding and thickening process.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or stir-fried bell peppers go really well with the sweet and savory profile.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but be sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour on LOW. For safety, it’s best to thaw chicken beforehand if possible.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! It’s mild and kid-friendly. If you prefer heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha will do the trick.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken, you’ll enjoy these hearty, flavor-packed meals too:

Chicken Gnocchi Soup for cozy comfort in a bowl.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes when you’re craving something crispy and savory.
Flank Steak Tacos for a zesty, protein-packed dinner twist.
Oven Baked Salmon if you’re in the mood for something lighter but just as flavorful.
One Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta when you want creamy, cheesy, and quick.

Explore more easy and delicious dinners like this on my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.