Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal? Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is a great choice! This dish combines tender chicken thighs with sweet pineapple and a tasty sauce. It’s perfect for busy days because you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. Serve it over rice and enjoy a taste of the tropics right at your kitchen table.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken. First, it is super easy to prepare, making it a wonderful option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that your whole family will love. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and a hint of ginger makes it a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, using a slow cooker allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and juicy, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 Foster Farms Simply Raised Chicken Thighs (bone-in and skin on)
- 2 cups pineapple cut into 1” chunks
- 1 yellow onion, cut into 1” chunks
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1” chunks
- Parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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Start by browning the chicken thighs. In a skillet or the cast aluminum slow cooker insert, heat over high heat. Brown the Foster Farms Simply Raised Chicken Thighs on both sides for about 3-5 minutes. Then, remove them from the slow cooker.
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Add the pineapple chunks and the onion to the bottom of the slow cooker.
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In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.
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Carefully place the browned chicken thighs back into the slow cooker.
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Cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours.
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After cooking, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water until smooth. Add this mixture along with the red bell pepper to the slow cooker. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
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While the chicken is finishing, you can cook some rice to serve with it.
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Once done, serve your Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken over the rice and garnish with parsley if desired.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken
Serve this delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken over a bed of hot rice for a wonderful meal. The rice will soak up the savory sauce, making it even tastier. For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving. Enjoy it with your favorite side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
How to Store Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken
To store leftovers, place any uneaten Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken
- If you like your chicken crispy, you can broil it for a few minutes after cooking.
- For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mix.
- Make sure to cut the ingredients into similar sizes so that they cook evenly.
Variation (If Any)
For a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breast. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; just adjust the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
What sides go well with this dish?
Rice is a classic choice, but you can also serve it with quinoa or a side salad.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day earlier, store it in the fridge, and reheat it before serving. This dish can actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
