If you’re looking for a meal that’s utterly effortless, delivers tropical flair, and will have everyone asking for seconds, Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is about to become your new go-to. Juicy chicken gets cozy in a bath of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and zesty aromatics, letting you enjoy all those vacation flavors without ever leaving the kitchen. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also practically hands-off, relying on your slow cooker to infuse every bite with bright, island-inspired goodness.

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken lies in its short ingredient list, where every component counts. Each ingredient adds something special — from the tender protein to the lush sweetness and crave-worthy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant, memorable meal.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are perfect for slow cooking, staying juicy and tender down to the last bite.
Pineapple chunks with juice: Don’t drain it! The juice is key for that classic tangy-sweet flavor.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and refreshing crunch, balancing out the sweetness.
Soy sauce: The umami backbone of the sauce that ties everything together.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic boosts aroma and depth—don’t skip it.
Ginger: A hint of freshly grated ginger brightens the whole dish with its gentle zing.
Brown sugar: Just a touch helps caramelize the sauce, enhancing those tropical notes.
Cornstarch: You’ll mix this with water at the end to thicken the sauce perfectly.
Chopped scallions & sesame seeds (for garnish): Optional, but they add a little wow factor and crunch just before serving.

How to Make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting your red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Drain the pineapple chunks only if they are packed in syrup, but reserve all the juice if packed in their own juice. Measure out your other ingredients so everything’s ready to go — this few minutes of prep will make the slow cooker magic even easier!

Step 2: Layer the Flavors

Place the chicken thighs directly in the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter the pineapple chunks (along with the juice), red bell pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger over the top. Pour the soy sauce evenly, then sprinkle the brown sugar. Try to mix things together a bit so every bite gets infused with those bright and savory flavors.

Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work its Magic

Cover and cook everything on low for 5-6 hours (or high for 3-4 hours), until the chicken is tender and nearly falling apart. The aroma will have everyone sneaking peeks into the kitchen — resist the urge to lift the lid and let the steam escape too often, so your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken stays moist.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

About 20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, whisk the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker, then let it cook uncovered on high for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken into a glossy, spoon-coating glaze.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the sauce is thickened, give everything a gentle stir. Spoon the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken over fluffy rice or your favorite base, and shower it with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds if you’d like that final fresh flourish.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Garnishes

Nothing brightens this dish quite like a scattering of freshly sliced scallions and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. If you’re feeling fancy, add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for extra color and zip, or a few wedges of lime to squeeze at the table.

Side Dishes

This chicken is made for pairing: think perfectly steamed jasmine or coconut rice, tender stir-fried vegetables, or even a crisp, crunchy Asian-style slaw. For a heartier spread, serve it with warm Hawaiian bread rolls or a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that glorious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try tucking spoonfuls of Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken into warm tortillas for an island-inspired taco night, or pile it onto a bun with a handful of slaw for a fantastic sandwich. For parties, skewer bite-sized pieces and serve as fun, saucy appetizers with pineapple chunks for garnish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will only get better as they mingle, making tomorrow’s lunch downright irresistible.

Freezing

If you want to save Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken for later, let the mixture cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to make sure everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but keep in mind they may cook a bit faster and tend to be less juicy. Keep an eye on the timing to avoid overcooking, and consider cutting them into larger chunks to help retain moisture.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely. Add a teaspoon of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a finely chopped jalapeño right into the slow cooker for some gentle heat that complements the sweet pineapple beautifully.

Can I add more veggies?

Yes, feel free to stir in sliced carrots, snap peas, or even broccoli florets alongside the bell pepper. Just remember that softer veggies should be added closer to the end of the cooking time so they don’t get mushy.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

If cornstarch isn’t on hand, arrowroot powder or tapioca starch will thicken the sauce just as well. Start with the same ratio and adjust if needed as the sauce cooks.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always double-check your labels to be sure.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a taste of the tropics without the fuss, Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is pure weeknight magic. It’s got bold flavors, lots of color, and is just as perfect for an effortless family dinner as it is for entertaining friends. Give it a try and let it transport you (and your lucky eaters) to sunny shores, one bite at a time.

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Recipe