If you’re in the mood for a delightful tropical escape without leaving your kitchen, look no further than this Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken. This dish brings together the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple, apricot, and soy sauce, resulting in tender, juicy chicken that’s enveloped in a sticky, luscious glaze that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend dinner, this recipe not only boasts simplicity but also a burst of island-inspired flavors.

Why This Recipe Works

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken is a winner for several reasons. First, the slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the flavorful ingredients, resulting in a dish that is incredibly moist and tender. The combination of pineapple juice and crushed pineapple adds a natural sweetness, while the soy sauce and apricot jam provide depth and umami. The crushed red pepper flakes introduce a subtle hint of heat, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a go-to for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What to Buy

When preparing your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup pineapple juice
1 cup crushed pineapple
3 medium garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup apricot jam
½ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
½ cup hoisin sauce
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (or 1 tablespoon Wondra flour)
Hot cooked rice, for serving (optional)
Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Cook’s Kit

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following tools ready:

Slow Cooker: A larger capacity slow cooker is ideal for this recipe to accommodate the chicken and sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the cornstarch and water, as well as mixing the sauce ingredients.
Sharp Knife: To finely mince the garlic and chop any garnishes.
Serving Spoon: For serving your delicious sticky chicken over rice.

From Start to Finish: Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the base of your delicious dish.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, minced garlic, salt, apricot jam, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken

Once your sauce is fully combined, pour it evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is thoroughly coated.

Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when done.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Allow it to cook for the remaining time with the lid off.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. Serve it over hot cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking to customize your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken or make it even healthier, consider the following alternatives:

Chicken Thighs: Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content without sacrificing flavor.
Fresh Pineapple: Substitute the crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple chunks for added texture.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Instead of apricot jam, try a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.

Avoid These Traps

When preparing your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken, keep the following tips in mind to ensure the best results:

Don’t overcook the chicken—check for doneness to avoid dry meat.
Avoid using low-quality ingredients, as they can affect the overall flavor of the dish.
Do not skip the thickening step with cornstarch; it’s crucial for a sticky glaze.
Be cautious with the crushed red pepper flakes; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Best Ways to Store

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken, here are the best ways to store them:

Refrigerate: Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to extend the cooking time. It’s best to cook on high for 4-5 hours instead of low.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Sticky Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with hot cooked rice, but you can also serve it over noodles or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken the night before and place it in the slow cooker in the morning for an easy dinner.

Is this dish spicy?

The spice level is mild, thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer no heat.

Before You Go

This Slow Cooker Hawaiian Sticky Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the tropics right to your table. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to indulge in a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. You’ll love the way the sweet and savory flavors meld together, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Enjoy every sticky bite!