Go Back
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Recipe photo

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

Tender, slightly sweet Hawaiian-style chicken slow-cooked in a tangy pineapple and hoisin sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless cut into 1–2 inch pieces (or use chicken breasts)
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 20 oz can pineapple chunks do not drain
  • 1 red bell pepper cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 yellow bell pepper cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 tablespoon garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger grated
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 4 tablespoons orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 4 green onions sliced
  • sesame seeds
  • slivered almonds

Equipment

  • Slow cooker/crockpot
  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Small Bowl
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil; once hot, sear the chicken pieces in batches until browned on all sides.
  2. Place the seared chicken in the slow cooker.
  3. In the same skillet or a bowl, combine 1/3 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 tablespoon lime zest, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, the entire can of pineapple with juice, bell peppers, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes if using; stir to combine.
  4. Pour the sauce and pineapple mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker and cover with the lid.
  5. Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  6. About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, whisk 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 4 tablespoons orange juice until smooth, then stir the slurry into the slow cooker; replace the lid and continue cooking 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  7. When done, check the seasoning and shred or chop the chicken if desired; garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and slivered almonds, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use low heat on the slow cooker for best texture when possible.
  • Include the pineapple can juice in the slow cooker for moisture and flavor.
  • Cook chicken until it reaches at least 160°F.
  • Omit brown sugar to reduce sweetness.
  • Freshly squeezed orange and lime juice/zest improves flavor.
  • The recipe freezes well for up to three months.