Sweet Hawaiian Chicken (Print Version)

Juicy chicken slow-cooked with pineapple, soy, and ginger for a sweet, savory tropical flavor.

# Ingredients:

Protein

01 - 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce and Flavorings

02 - 1 cup pineapple juice
03 - 1 cup pineapple chunks
04 - ½ cup brown sugar
05 - ⅓ cup soy sauce
06 - ¼ cup ketchup
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Vegetables

09 - 1 small bell pepper, chopped
10 - 1 small onion, chopped

Thickening Agent

11 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
12 - 2 tablespoons water

Optional Garnishes

13 - Red pepper flakes
14 - Sliced green onions
15 - Sesame seeds
16 - Extra pineapple chunks
17 - Steamed broccoli
18 - Shredded carrots

# Instructions:

01 - Lightly grease the slow cooker insert or ensure it is clean and ready for use.
02 - Place chicken breasts or thighs evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
03 - In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and grated ginger until fully combined.
04 - Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Top with pineapple chunks, chopped bell pepper, and onion.
05 - Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours until chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked.
06 - Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with forks or slice into chunks, then return it to the slow cooker.
07 - Mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker, cover again, and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
08 - Serve the chicken hot, accompanied by rice, noodles, or vegetables. Optionally garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or extra pineapple chunks.

# Notes:

01 - Chicken thighs retain moisture better in slow cooking, while breasts require careful timing to prevent drying out.
02 - The cornstarch slurry added at the end creates a glossy sauce that clings to the chicken for enhanced flavor.