An Irresistible Journey to the Hawaiian Islands with Pineapple Chicken
Imagine a dish that effortlessly transports you to the sunny shores of Hawaii, filled with the tantalizing flavors of sweet pineapple and savory chicken. Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is exactly that dish! With just 15 minutes of prep, you’re on your way to a deliciously exotic meal that brings the taste of the islands right to your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something both comforting and unique. It’s a healthier alternative to the traditional Sweet and Sour Chicken, offering all the flavor without the deep-fried guilt. Plus, it’s made with Foster Farms Simply Raised Chicken, ensuring high-quality, antibiotic-free ingredients.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker or a cast aluminum slow cooker insert
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
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
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1″ chunks
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a skillet or the cast aluminum slow cooker insert, brown your chicken thighs on both sides for 3-5 minutes over high heat, then remove them from the slow cooker.
- Add the pineapple and onion to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Mix honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic in a mixing bowl, then add this mixture to the slow cooker.
- Carefully place the browned chicken thighs back into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then add to the slow cooker along with the bell peppers.
- Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes while you prepare some rice to serve with your meal.
- Garnish with parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Browning the chicken beforehand helps lock in flavors and gives a nice texture to the chicken.
- For added freshness, use ripe and juicy pineapples.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Consider adding other colorful bell peppers for a more vibrant dish.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in protein and packed with vitamins from the pineapple and bell peppers, making it both nutritious and delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can brown the chicken and prep the ingredients the night before, then simply add everything to the slow cooker in the morning.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of chicken, creating a meal that’s both comforting and exotic. Give it a try and let the flavors transport you to a Hawaiian paradise. We’d love to hear about your experience, so please share your thoughts and any variations you try!