Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a hands-off meal that delivers on both taste and convenience. The combination of juicy chicken and tropical pineapple makes this dish a family favorite, ideal for serving with rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is perfect for those who want a quick and delicious dinner without spending much time in the kitchen. With just three ingredients—chicken, barbecue sauce, and pineapple—this meal is incredibly easy to prepare. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming the chicken into a tender, flavorful dish with minimal effort. Plus, the sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken, making every bite a delicious experience. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner, family gatherings, or meal prepping.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
1 bottle (16 oz) barbecue sauce
1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained with juice reserved

Directions

Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving the juice. Dice the pineapple chunks if using pineapple slices.
In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce and diced pineapple together.
Pour a small amount of the barbecue pineapple mixture into the bottom of a 5-6 quart slow cooker.
Add the chicken breasts on top of the sauce mixture. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken to coat it evenly.
Cook on High for 3-4 hours or Low for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred or slice as desired. Serve topped with the remaining sauce.
Serve with rice, roasted potatoes, or a salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on High or 6-8 hours on Low
Total Time: 3-4 hours

Variations

Spicy Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture to give it a spicy kick.
Boneless Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker cooking time, but be sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or a meat substitute for a plant-based version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If frozen, allow the dish to thaw before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, it’s important to increase the cooking time by an additional hour when cooking on Low to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly.

2. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used. The cooking time will be reduced, so check for tenderness after 2-3 hours on High or 4-6 hours on Low.

3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works well in this recipe. Just dice it into small pieces and add it along with the barbecue sauce.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It should also be tender and easy to shred with a fork.

5. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes, bone-in or boneless chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time if using boneless thighs.

6. Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the crockpot. Just be sure to add them at the beginning of cooking so they have enough time to soften.

7. What type of barbecue sauce should I use?

You can use any type of barbecue sauce you prefer, whether sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy. Choose one that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in the crockpot in advance. Simply refrigerate it before cooking, and then set the slow cooker to cook when you’re ready.

9. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

While this recipe is designed for the crockpot, you can cook it on the stovetop by simmering the chicken with the sauce in a large pot over low heat for 1-2 hours until the chicken is tender.

10. What should I serve with Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken is the perfect dish for those looking for a hassle-free, flavorful meal. The slow cooker does all the work, turning simple ingredients into a tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce. Whether you’re serving it for dinner tonight or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.